Prioritizing Education
With this week marking National Back to School Prep Day, it’s a great time to highlight the provisions for K-12 education in the recent biennial budget.
K-12 funding has consistently been the largest item in general purpose spending, and it remains a priority in the current budget. Schools in this budget received the largest investment in special education in state history, totaling over $500 million. Moreover, they will receive:
- $54.6M for high-cost special education
- $37.1M for literacy initiatives
- $30M for mental health services
- $3M for the public library system
- $2M in sparsity aid
Importantly, we preserved our robust choice system and even increased the full-time open enrollment transfer amount by $500 per pupil in both the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. The budget, in combination with existing law levy limit increases, ultimately endows schools with over a billion dollars in new funds to support kids.
Reporting Standards for Public Education
The Department of Public Instruction hosted the Report Card Standard Setting meeting this week to modify Wisconsin’s school report card standards.
Parents, students, and educators deserve a report card that is understandable, accurate, and consistent. I strongly urged this standard-setting group to make the necessary revisions to reflect the reality of academic achievement and provide parents with the clear and honest information they deserve.
Last year’s changes to the Forward Exam have eroded trust in DPI and damaged its reputation. The process this week represented an opportunity for restoration, and I sincerely hope for sound results.
Enjoy the Brown County Fair
The Brown County Fair began this week and continues through Sunday! I encourage everyone to find time to attend and enjoy the community with your friends and family. Discover the variety of activities available throughout the weekend by clicking the image below.
Follow Along on Facebook
Want to hear more about what’s going on in Madison and the district? Follow my Facebook page for weekly updates and to learn more about bills, events, and efforts I’m involved in. Find my Facebook page here: facebook.com/RepSteffen/.
Contact Me
My office is always available to help with any state-related questions or concerns you may have. You can reach my office at (608) 237-9104, or email me at Rep.Steffen@legis.wisconsin.
