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Proposals would have negative impact on children, schools
5/22/2009 10:38:17 AM
May 22, 2009
For more information contact:
Christina Brey, WEAC Media Relations Officer
(608) 298-2519
MADISON – Proposals announced Thursday by Governor Jim Doyle to cut school aid and lower local school district revenues would have a negative impact on Wisconsin’s children and schools, said WEAC President Mary Bell.
In a statement, Bell said:
“We recognize the difficult situation our state is in. These are tough times for all of us. We also recognize that in the toughest of times, Wisconsin has always valued education.
“We will await specifics of the governor’s proposals in order to analyze them, and will continue to monitor this very closely.
“As legislators continue their work, it’s important they recognize that schools across the state have been cutting programs and education opportunities for students, as well as issuing staff layoffs and furloughs, for 16 years under revenue controls. Communities have seen firsthand how these cuts have already affected the education they’re able to provide in their local schools. Additional cuts will only worsen the situation.
“Cutting school aid and lowering local school district revenue caps would absolutely impact the quality of education and the opportunities our kids receive.
“I urge lawmakers to be mindful of the long-term consequences that today’s decisions will have on our kids, communities and state.
“Wisconsin takes pride in our state's public schools. Now more than ever, we must work together to maintain our tradition of quality public schools in Wisconsin.”
(END)
Related releases:
Video: Maintaining Wisconsin Schools (5/18/09)
Video: Interview with Mary Bell on the state budget (5/18/09)