MADISON — As Wisconsin navigates the uncertainty surrounding federal funding and the state biennial budget, State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly today announced the launch of a new effort to help the public better understand how state, federal, and local funding directly impacts the state’s K-12 public schools and libraries. 

Funding the Future: How Federal & State Dollars Impact Wisconsin’s School & Libraries is designed to offer the public a clearer view of the funding landscape in Wisconsin, and its influence on local public education. Through events scheduled throughout April, Dr. Underly and Department of Public Instruction staff will provide valuable insights into how funding at various levels affects schools and libraries. The sessions will allow attendees to ask questions and engage in discussions about the future of education funding in Wisconsin. 

“It is crucial that all Wisconsinites understand the stakes involved, particularly with potential threats of withholding federal funding for our schools and the significant role the upcoming state budget will plan in addressing long-standing funding gaps,” Dr. Underly said. “This is our chance to make a real impact, ensuring that Wisconsin’s schools and libraries receive the investment they deserve.” 

Additional information on upcoming events can be found below, and also in this informational flyer: 

Virtual Events (via Microsoft Teams)

  • Monday, April 14 from 4-5 p.m. Central time
    • Platform: Microsoft Teams 
    • Link: Join here (note: downloading the Teams application may be required)
    • ASL interpretation: Available upon request (please email Tacara.Lovings@dpi.wi.gov)
  • Thursday, April 24 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Central time
    • Platform: Microsoft Teams
    • Link: Join here (note: downloading the Teams application may be required)
    • ASL interpretation: Available upon request (please email Tacara.Lovings@dpi.wi.gov) 

In-Person Events (Wauwatosa and Ashland)

  1. Monday, April 21 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Central time
    • Location: Wauwatosa Public Library, Firefly Room (7635 W. North Ave., Wauwatosa, WI, 53213)
    • ASL Interpretation: Available upon request (please email Tacara.Lovings@dpi.wi.gov)
  2. Wednesday, April 30 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Central time
    • Location: Ashland High School, Instructional Media Center (1900 Beaser Ave., Ashland, WI, 54806) 

In March, the DPI launched a new webpage, Tracking Federal Funding: The Effect on Wisconsin, providing interactive maps and comprehensive tools that highlight the impact of federal funding on every public school district and library in the state. These tools aim to encourage Wisconsin residents to understand how education funding is distributed and used across the state. 

Meanwhile, the Joint Committee on Finance continues its discussions on the funding priorities for the 2025-27 Biennial Budget. On Wednesday, Dr. Underly traveled to Kaukauna to express the critical needs of Wisconsin’s education system to the JCF during a budget listening session. Dr. Underly’s full written testimony is available on the DPI’s website. Many of Dr. Underly’s key priorities were reflected in Gov. Tony Evers’ 2025-27 Executive Budget, including: 

  • Increasing special education reimbursement: Raising the reimbursement rate to 60 percent and providing sustainable funding to school districts (more information here) 
  • Universal free school meals: Ensuring no child has to learn on an empty stomach (more information here) 
  • Youth mental health support: Addressing the challenges faced by Wisconsin’s youth (more information here) 
  • Supporting the education workforce: Meeting the needs of Wisconsin’s educators and schools (more information here) 
  • Prioritizing health and wellness: Focusing on student health and well-being (more information here) 

For additional information and resources related to the budget proposal, visit the DPI’s website.  

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