University of Michigan Reviews Childcare System and Academic Priorities

The University of Michigan Senate Assembly met to discuss the institution’s childcare system and vote on the committee charges for the 2026-2027 academic year. Kentaro Toyama, who chairs the Senate Advisory Committee on University Affairs, opened the meeting by presenting results from a faculty priorities survey, noting that faculty members’ highest concern was ensuring salaries increased with inflation. The discussion also covered the current childcare resources offered by the University’s Human Resources department.

The University currently provides childcare spots for 427 children across three locations, including dedicated facilities for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program benefits from integrated state funding for preschool classrooms, which amounts to approximately $12,000 per family for 4-year-olds at two locations.