MADISON — Nearly 80 school referendum questions on Wisconsin ballots during Tuesday’s general election are renewing calls for changes to the state’s school funding system.
State Superintendent Jill Underly said 79 referendum questions were included on ballots statewide, requiring voters to decide whether to increase property taxes to support their local school districts.
“Wisconsin voters made it clear they believe our children’s future is worth investing in,” Underly said in a statement Wednesday. “Supporting our public schools is the best way to move our state forward.”
Underly said the number of referendums reflects the financial challenges facing school districts, including the need to maintain operations, pay teachers and continue providing educational opportunities.
“The school funding formula is broken, and it has failed our children, our schools and entire communities for decades,” Underly said.
She said Wisconsin public schools should not have to rely on referendums to provide the educational opportunities students deserve.
Underly said she is hopeful state leaders will be able to make meaningful changes to how public schools are funded and said she looks forward to workin...