MADISON — State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly today released the following statement regarding Republicans in the Wisconsin State Legislature backing out of budget negotiations with Gov. Tony Evers.
“The success of our state is directly tied to the health of our public schools, our child care providers, and our system of higher education. That’s where our budget priorities should be focused. Each deserves significant, sustained investments from this legislature.
“I’ve consistently said our schools need resources that are flexible, spendable, and predicable – ones that allow local districts to address their unique needs. That starts with meaningful increases in special education funding, ensuring the state covers at least 60 percent of those costs. A strong investment in K-12 education not only supports our schools; it also keeps property taxes low by lessening the financial burden on local communities.
“Our child care providers are also at a breaking point. They need an investment from the state to bring an end to soaring costs. Child care should be affordable and available to all families. It’s not just a basic necessity; it’s a workforce issue that affects our state’s ability to compete for skilled labor and family-supporting wages.
“Our partners in higher education need state resources to keep tuition affordable for Wisconsin families and to stay competitive in the global economy. Look at a map and you’ll see the correlation between a campus that’s thriving and economic prosperity.
“I want to be clear: there is not a perfect solution to these challenges. But progress needs partnership and compromise to get what’s best for our kids and communities. I appreciate Governor Evers’ leadership and commitment to putting kids first – that’s what Wisconsin is asking for and desperately needs.”
An official photo of Dr. Underly is available on the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s website.
