Question of the Week
What role should the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) play in helping schools identify, prevent, and respond to child grooming and other forms of exploitation? Click here to answer!
G.O.A.T. Committee Info Hearing
This week, the Government Oversight, Accountability, and Transparency Committee held an Informational Hearing on Sexual Misconduct and Grooming in Wisconsin Schools.
Recently, The Cap Times released an investigative report exposing a troubling lack of transparency within the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) regarding the protection of children from predatory behavior. The article highlighted that 200 teacher sexual misconduct and grooming cases were shielded from the public by DPI, which operates under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly.
The invited speakers for this important hearing included representatives from law enforcement and Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly. The Kenosha Police Department represented law enforcement and provided valuable insight into their experiences handling sexual misconduct and grooming cases in classrooms, as well as where the Legislature could strengthen laws to better support law enforcement in addressing these serious issues.
Unfortunately, Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly did not attend the hearing, choosing instead to travel to her college alma mater to accept an award. In her place, she sent three DPI employees to testify and answer questions on her behalf. During the hearing, DPI representatives acknowledged that current laws and internal guidance are ambiguous and lack the clarity needed for the department to act decisively on these matters.
It remains unclear why DPI has not previously approached the Legislature to address the legal and procedural gaps surrounding this serious issue.
The CHILDREN of Wisconsin deserve to be PROTECTED!
The Cap Times article can be found by clicking here.
STAC Public Hearing
[see featured photo above] This week, the Assembly Committee on Science, Technology, and AI — which I chair — held a Public Hearing on three bills:- AB 377 — Establishing English as the official state language, use of artificial intelligence or other machine-assisted translation tools in lieu of appointing English language interpreters, and use of English for governmental oral and written communication and for nongovernmental purposes.
- AB 415— Use restrictions on state and local government electronic devices.
- AB 530 — The operation of drones over school property and providing a penalty.
During the public hearing, we heard testimony from authors, stakeholders, and members of the public. The committee will now review the input received and discuss these proposals further during our Executive Session on November 5th, where members will consider and vote on whether to advance the bills to the Assembly.
High School Sports Achievements
The 55th loves winning! Congratulations to Senior Adel Schneider and Sophomore Vivie Auth of St. Mary Catholic Schools for winning their second WIAA Division 2 Doubles State Title!
Congratulations to the Winneconne Wolves High School Football Team!
They finish the regular season undefeated and as 2025 Bay Conference Champions! Now entering the playoffs as the #1 seed, they’ll face Milwaukee North/Lifelong Learning this Friday at 7 PM at JJ Keller Family Field in Winneconne!
Let’s go Wolves — go get that WIN!
Changes to the County Board
Congratulations to Robert Gustafson on his appointment to the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors! Your dedication to serving our community is truly appreciated — thank you for stepping up to make a difference!
Cybersecurity Month
Cybersecurity Tip:
Phishing scams try to trick you into giving away personal information. Stay safe by:
• Double-checking email addresses and links before clicking.
• Avoiding sharing sensitive information through email or text.
• Reporting suspicious messages to your IT or security team immediately.
REMINDER: Listening Session This Saturday!
Blue Books
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If you would like a Blue Book, please email my office, and we will send one to you! |
Capitol Visits
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Planning a trip to Madison? Schedule a visit with me at the Capitol! Email my office! |
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