MADISON–Wisconsin State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jill Underly delivered the annual State of Education address today, outlining her priorities for Wisconsin’s public schools in the upcoming year. Representative Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa) issued the following statement:
“Every child in Wisconsin has a constitutional right to an adequately funded education, and it is our job as legislators to fulfill this right. The state budget that we passed in July missed the mark–it should have better valued public education and its role in shaping both our children and Wisconsin’s future.
“Today Dr. Jill Underly outlined her vision for Wisconsin public schools–one that reflects the values and needs of our community, including:
- Learner and educator mental health: Promoting well-being in every learning environment.
- Educator recruitment and retention: Supporting a strong, sustainable educator workforce.
- Innovative education: Empowering learners through forward-thinking approaches.
- Modernization and improvement of the DPI: Building a more effective, efficient department.
“I want to highlight the words that Dr. Underly said during her speech today, ‘schools should not have to beg and plead for basic resources…we are failing our schools, and it’s time we write a better story…schools are being asked to do more with less. Still, educators are stepping up–innovating out of necessity. Embracing new teaching methods. Reimagining how to support students despite limited resources.’
“We must also strive to ensure that all Wisconsinites feel a sense of belonging. I want to echo Dr. Underly’s words that diversity should be celebrated, not demonized. Let’s be clear: all students, educators and families are welcome in our public schools. This sense of belonging is under attack, contributing to an unprecedented mental health crisis.
“We need to do more. Wisconsin kids, families, educators, and public school staff deserve to thrive. I agree with Dr. Underly–we must write a better story. May the next chapter we write be one of hope, honoring the constitution, and delivering for all Wisconsinites. Public schools are at the hearts of our communities, and I am committed to continuing my work to support our students, families, schools and educators, so that we can move forward, together.”
Rep. Vining represents the 13th Assembly District, which includes Elm Grove, and parts of Wauwatosa and Brookfield. For more information visit Rep. Vining’s website here.
