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February 13, 2008
For more information, contact
Christina Brey, WEAC Communications Coordinator
608-298-2519
For many Wisconsin educators, the commitment to provide the best resources they can to their students means they are opening up their own pocketbooks to purchase classroom supplies.
Teachers often pick up the tab for school supplies for children in need or for special projects. They also sometimes buy books and instructional materials with money out of their own pockets.
Teachers throughout the state are asking the Wisconsin Legislature to support a bill that would allow educators to deduct up to $250 of those non-reimbursed classroom expenses from their state income taxes. The deduction mirrors an existing federal income tax deduction available to educators.
In a hearing Tuesday, teachers Jane Anderson-Wood of Appleton and Richard Fanning of Evansville shared their personal experiences with the Assembly Committee on Education as the panel took up Assembly Bill 647 at the State Capitol.
“The educator tax deduction helps recognize the financial sacrifices made by teachers and education support professionals, who often reach into their own pockets to purchase classroom supplies such as books, pencils, paper and art supplies,” said WEAC President Mary Bell. “Studies show that teachers are spending more out of their own funds each year to supply their classrooms with essential items.”
Anderson-Wood estimates she’s spent more than $14,000 of her own money over her 28-year career to purchase classroom supplies and materials, and that doesn’t include the other items she buys such as snacks for children who come to school hungry or gloves and hats for students who have none. “My dedication to my students and their welfare goes beyond providing traditional classroom supplies,” Anderson-Wood said in written testimony.
Fanning, a middle school science teacher with 19 years of experience, said school districts continue to cut budgets year after year, and most now only provide the basic curriculum materials. That leaves many educators to purchase their own classroom supplies – from pens to tape. “The costs really add up in a hurry,” Fanning said.
“I want my students to reach their full potential,” Anderson-Wood said. “That is why I teach. It is also why I will continue to underwrite the needs of my classroom and my students. The educator tax deduction will honor us, and help us meet these needs.”
Also Tuesday, the Assembly Committee on Education heard testimony on a bill to require school districts throughout the state to establish policies regarding bullying prevention. WEAC supports the bill.
