IN MY OPINION: State funding shortfall and federal cuts send message our kids are not important

For far too long, Wisconsin’s public schools have faced the challenge of underfunding and insufficient resources. Our public education system has been under immense financial pressure, impacting the learning environment for every student and teacher. This struggle is felt in every corner of Wisconsin. The chronic underfunding of education in our state has reached a critical point, and it’s time for change.

  I’m encouraged by Gov. Tony Evers’ recent budget proposal, which incorporates many of my recommendations and allocates more than $3 billion for public schools and libraries. This investment is aimed at vital areas like mental health, food security and expanded academic opportunities, all of which are essential for ensuring students thrive both in and out of the classroom.

  By prioritizing mental health services, schools can provide kids with the support they are desperately asking for to navigate the challenges they face. Addressing food insecurity and providing universal free meals to kids ensures that no student is learning on an empty stomach. Increasing the special education reimbursement rate and boosting funding for academic programs allows for more resources, specialized teachers and enrichment opportunities.

  While passing this budget proposal is a positive step, we must recognize it’s only the start of addressing the persistent challenges that our schools face due to years of neglect by the state legislature.

  Adding to our difficulties, the Trump administration is threatening to cut critical federal funding that Wisconsin schools rely on. This, along with the underfunding of public schools within our state, has severe implications for our educational system and the future of our students.

  Public education equips students with the ability to think critically, foster growth, drive innovation and actively contribute to their communities. We must protect these essential resources from being compromised by political motives. All of us want schools that thrive, and it’s time for the Legislature to set politics aside and make the necessary investments. The well-being and future of our children hang in the balance.

  Threatening to strip federal funding from schools, or failing to invest needed state dollars, sends a message that our kids and their aspirations are simply not important. We send the message that we don’t want to compete in the global economy. We simply can’t afford to take that fork on this road.

  Instead, let’s unite in our commitment to advocate for every child’s right to an excellent education.

Dr. Jill Underly was re-elected Wisconsin’s superintendent of public instruction last week.