Phasing out parental choice programs and the Special Needs Scholarship Program, repealing the achievement gap reduction program and the student achievement guarantee program, creating a new student achievement guarantee program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)
Impact
Starting in the 2024-25 school year, the new SAGE program will require schools to meet specific participation criteria, including the enrollment of at least 30% low-income students. Schools must enter into five-year contracts with the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) which mandate significant changes, such as reducing class sizes to a maximum of 18 pupils in the earliest grades. This structural transformation in funding and requirements seeks to improve both instructional quality and educational equity, particularly for underserved populations.
Summary
Senate Bill 501 aims to significantly reshape the educational landscape in Wisconsin by phasing out several current programs aimed at promoting school choice and supporting students with special needs. Specifically, the bill proposes to eliminate the Parental Choice Programs and the Special Needs Scholarship Program (SNSP), alongside repealing the Achievement Gap Reduction (AGR) program and the existing Student Achievement Guarantee in Education (SAGE) program. In their place, SB501 introduces a new SAGE program that aims to provide targeted support to schools that demonstrate a commitment to improving educational outcomes for low-income students.
Contention
This bill has sparked considerable debate among stakeholders. Proponents argue that repealing existing choice programs will refocus resources on public schools that are more accountable and capable of meeting the needs of all students, especially those from low-income backgrounds. Opponents, however, contend that the elimination of parental choice programs undermines families' ability to select suitable educational environments for their children, effectively limiting options for those in diverse situations. Additionally, critics express concern about the potential negative effects on competition within the education sector, which they believe drives improvement.
Notable_points
The underlying legislative findings within SB501 state that prior voucher programs have been unsuccessful and advocate for redirecting funds toward the proposed new SAGE program, which aims to effect measurable improvements in early childhood education and long-term outcomes. The new program emphasizes collaboration with community organizations and a commitment to fulfilling rigorous educational standards, while also calling for annual evaluations to assess its effectiveness, thereby establishing a framework for accountability.
Pupil discrimination and private schools participating in a parental choice program or the Special Needs Scholarship Program, discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression, and providing a penalty.
Pupil discrimination and private schools participating in a parental choice program or the Special Needs Scholarship Program, discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression, and providing a penalty.