Wisconsin School Districts Face Funding Cuts Amid State Budget Surplus

The state education department announced that 62% of Wisconsin school districts will receive less state general aid this year than they did last year. This marks the third consecutive year the state budget has provided no new money for general school aid, following over 15 years where per-pupil revenue adjustments failed to keep pace with inflation. Separately, Governor Tony Evers’ office reported a $3.3 billion budget balance and a $2.1 billion state “rainy day” fund, noting Wisconsin has maintained a strong fiscal position for seven consecutive years.

The state's large budget surplus is attributed largely to the state abandoning its commitment to fund public schools. This policy decision results in reduced state general aid for local school districts, despite the state maintaining a strong overall fiscal position.

Voters in Wisconsin are discussing the scope of gubernatorial power regarding education funding.