State Superintendent Pushes for Big Changes in Public Education Funding

Last Thursday, State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly gave her fourth State of Education Address at the Wisconsin State Capitol. She focused on the need to invest more money into public education. She urged the state legislature to increase their support for special education costs. Currently, local school districts only get about a third of this cost reimbursed. Dr. Underly wants this to double and eventually reach 60% funding by the state. “We have a big budget surplus right now,” said Dr. Jill Underly. “School districts are struggling. They often have to ask voters for more money just to stay afloat. ” She believes that building a strong public education system requires fair and sufficient funding. The event also included performances from speakers and student musicians. It was an important day, highlighting the challenges faced by Wisconsin's schools.