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MADISON — State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly released the following statement today, as 72 Wisconsin school districts held referendums in Tuesday’s spring general election.
"Public schools have been the bedrock of Wisconsin since its founding, when state leaders enshrined in our constitution the responsibility to provide every child with a quality education. The growing number of school referendums, however, is a clear signal that the state is falling short of that promise.
"Years of chronic underfunding from the state, combined with rising costs, have pushed too many districts into an unsustainable cycle, forcing communities to repeatedly turn to voters just to meet simple, basic needs like keeping schools staffed and the lights on. This is unfair to students, educators, and taxpayers alike, and it is placing an increasing strain on communities across our state.
"Wisconsin must renew its commitment to investing in our children. That means adequately funding public schools so every district can deliver the high-quality education students deserve, without being forced to rely on repeated referendums to survive."
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction has a referendum reporting tool portal available. Additional information on Wisconsin referendums can also be found on the DPI's website, and historical data can be found on the department’s Data & Maps webpage. Please note, per state law, school district clerks have up to 10 days to certify results and report to the DPI. Official results will be updated as soon as possible after reports are submitted by clerks.
An official photo of Dr. Underly is available on the DPI’s website.
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Contact: Media.Inquiries@dpi.wi.gov
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