Contact: Rep. Kathy Bernier, (608) 266-9172
Madison…Representative Kathy Bernier (R-Lake Hallie) hailed Governor Walker’s announcement today making rural education a priority in his upcoming state budget. The Governor spoke today at Stanley-Boyd School District outlining portions of his budget dealing with sparsity aids to rural districts, increased broadband investment, flexibility of shared services between school districts, the importance of recruiting and retaining top-notch teachers, and increased investment in fabrication laboratories (fab labs).
“I am very happy to see such an emphasis placed on rural Wisconsin schools and the unique challenges they face,” said Bernier. “The needs of rural Wisconsin outlined by Governor Walker today highlight the importance of a quality education now more than ever,” Bernier continued. “Wisconsin faces worker shortages not only in the manufacturing sector but in the teaching profession as we seek to continue to produce quality educators who will instruct our youth and prepare them for the workforce. These initiatives provide options and opportunities to rural communities that will benefit all of Wisconsin.”
At his stop in Stanley, the Governor highlighted increased rural education aids including transportation by $10.4 million, sparsity aid by $20 million, Technology for Educational Achievement (TEACH) grants by $22.5 million and Broadband Expansion grants by $13 million. He also emphasized the successful science, technology and engineering education programs conducted through the fabrication laboratories (fab labs) program.
“I’m very proud of our fab lab in Altoona,” Bernier said. “I’ve toured the facility and I am so impressed with what both students and teachers shared regarding successful projects and the intensive learning opportunities they provide. I know the additional $1 million grant funding proposed by Governor Walker will benefit students in my district and open up access to kids around the state.”
