State Superintendent Evers: Statement on the governor’s proposed budget for education

MADISON — State Superintendent Tony Evers issued a statement today on Gov. Scott Walker’s proposed 2017-19 budget for education.

“A renewed funding commitment for K-12 education is good news. Many of the items Governor Walker outlined in his proposed budget are a direct result of local advocates and school leaders calling for a change of course and a reinvestment in our schools. They also reflect the priorities of my budget request, which include funding mental health supports for all kids, helping rural schools keep the lights on, and providing more spending authority for districts across Wisconsin.

“I have concerns about moving back to using life licenses for educators and want to see further details. As we attempt to address the educator shortage in Wisconsin, we cannot lose sight of how important it is for all kids to be taught by a highly qualified educator. Like many licensed professionals, a big part of keeping current includes some form of continuing education. I think that is tremendously important.

“We have a long way to go before any of what we heard today becomes a reality for the kids in our classrooms. I look forward to working with the Legislature to address the questions I have around licensure and to explore ways that we can more equitably distribute funds to our schools.”