State Rep. Pamela Hornberger announced that the state budget for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1, which received final approval from the Legislature on Wednesday, includes a $100,000 enhancement grant for Rising Stars Academy (RSA).

The special needs culinary school in Macomb County helps intellectually and developmentally disabled adults develop the necessary skills to participate at their full potential within the community.

Hornberger, a former public school teacher and chair of the House Education Committee, has advocated for RSA to receive the enhancement grant and said she is pleased to see the investment being made in career education for disabled adults in Macomb County.

“RSA provides an invaluable opportunity for people in our communities who have experienced great hurdles in life to find careers in a field where they can be successful and make their mark on the world,” said Hornberger, of Chesterfield Township. “I’m so glad we were able to direct this grant funding into the hands of this meaningful community organization.”

Debbie Prentiss, RSA’s cofounder and superintendent, expressed

“We appreciate that the Legislature is recognizing the artisan schools that are filling a huge need in our educational system,” said Prentiss. “We are often overlooked with respect to funding in so many ways. This grant will go a long way at Rising Stars Academy in providing cutting edge training for our students.”

The budget plan, Senate Bill 82, received overwhelming bipartisan support and advanced to the governor for her expected signature.