MADISON, Wis. – Thursday’s State of Education Address highlighted the strength and resilience of Wisconsin students and teachers, and handed down a powerful wakeup call for the Wisconsin Republicans who have spent decades starving our public schools.
Wisconsin’s public schools are ranked among the best in the nation academically, but due to chronic underfunding by Wisconsin Republicans, have been forced at record rates to ask voters to increase their own property taxes so that classrooms can keep the lights on.
When given an opportunity in the most recent state budget cycle to finally do what’s right for Wisconsin kids, Republican lawmakers rejected every attempt from Governor Evers and legislative Democrats to increase general school aid and hold the line on local property taxes.
In response to today’s address and blatant inaction from Republicans, A Better Wisconsin Together released the following statement:
“As Wisconsin students and teachers show up each day, going strong despite being forced to do more with less, today’s State of Education address was yet another reminder that it doesn’t have to be this way.
“The hard work and resiliency of local teachers and students will always keep our public schools strong, but it’s up to our Republican-controlled legislature to make sure they have the funds, resources, and support to do so.
“Today and every day, we urge them to listen to their constituents and ensure our public schools are fully funded and fully resourced.”
