Contact: Rep. John Nygren (888) 534-0089

Madison– State Representative John Nygren (R-Marinette) released the following statement immediately following an announcement regarding additional investments in public school with Governor Scott Walker:

“I am very proud to be joining Governor Scott Walker at Coleman High School today to announce a proposal to provide significant additional resources for public schools across Wisconsin. In the shadows of a historic $600 million increase in spending for our public schools, these new K-12 investments will provide an additional $25 million in the 2018-19 school year for public schools all throughout Wisconsin”.

Under the bill, over the next 6 years, schools will see an additional $130 million in resources. The aid for low revenue districts will provide over $18 million in 2018-19 and $92 million to over 200 school districts in the next 6 years. Historically, these districts are frugal, low-spending districts who have been locked into spending limits for over 20 years.

“As a result of locked spending, these districts must play on an unlevel playing field, competing with higher spending districts. This has a negative impact on the students and educators in those districts. Affording all students the same educational opportunities, regardless of geographic location is of utmost importance.”

Additionally, this bill increases sparsity aid payments to our rural districts that face unique challenges. Currently at $300 per pupil, payments will be increased to $400 per pupil. This increase will provide over $6 million in 2018-19 and $30 million over the next 6 years to nearly 150 school districts.

“This bill will have real-world impacts on the lives of our students and educators. These reforms will provide more resources for the classroom, increased educational opportunities for students, and will foster an environment for rural schools to flourish. I would like to thank Governor Walker for his collaboration and leadership on this issue. I look forward to continuing to work to ensure that all students get the world-class education that they deserve, regardless of their zip code.”

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