An Act to amend 20.255 (2) (b), 115.882, 121.905 (3) (c) 6., 121.905 (3) (c) 9., 121.91 (2m) (i) (intro.), 121.91 (2m) (j) (intro.), 121.91 (2m) (j) 2m., 121.91 (2m) (r) 1. (intro.), 121.91 (2m) (r) 1. b., 121.91 (2m) (r) 2. (intro.), 121.91 (2m) (r) 2. a., 121.91 (2m) (r) 2. b., 121.91 (2m) (s) 1. (intro.), 121.91 (2m) (s) 1. b., 121.91 (2m) (s) 2. (intro.), 121.91 (2m) (s) 2. a., 121.91 (2m) (s) 2. b. and 121.91 (2m) (t) 1. (intro.); to create 20.235 (1) (cd), 39.52, 121.905 (3) (c) 10. and 121.91 (2m) (k) of the statutes; Relating to: grants for students enrolled in teacher education programs, school district revenue limits, the reimbursement rate for special education costs, and making an appropriation. (FE)
Impact
The bill revises the current law by allowing a per pupil adjustment in revenue, effective from the 2026-27 school year, to be tied to changes in the consumer price index rather than a flat increase. This adjustment aims to better reflect economic conditions and allow schools to manage budgets more effectively in response to inflation. Additionally, it increases the reimbursement rate for eligible special education costs to 90%, which is set to alleviate the financial burden on school districts and ensure that services for children with disabilities remain strong.
Summary
Assembly Bill 835 introduces significant changes to funding structures for school districts in Wisconsin. It outlines new provisions for reimbursing special education costs, adjusting the revenue limits for school districts, and providing grants for students enrolled in teacher education programs. This legislation seeks to ensure more sustainable funding mechanisms while improving access to teaching positions for new educators through financial support during their preparation.
Contention
Key aspects of AB835 may invoke debate regarding the balance between state funding and local control. While the increase in grants for teacher education is intended to foster a greater teaching workforce, concerns may arise over whether the strings attached to these grants, such as the requirement for grant recipients to commit to teaching in Wisconsin for at least four years, might deter potential applicants. Additionally, discussions may grow around how the adjustments in revenue limits could impact varying districts differently, potentially widening disparities where some districts may continue struggling with funding deficiencies.
Crossfiled
Grants for students enrolled in teacher education programs, school district revenue limits, the reimbursement rate for special education costs, and making an appropriation. (FE)