FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 31, 2002
Superintendent Art Rainwater today expressed his gratitude for Gov. McCallum's investment in K-12 education given the state's current fiscal crisis and urged a comprehensive review of how the state funds public education.
"I am grateful that the governor has made an investment in our children a top priority in his budget. I support his efforts to maintain that commitment given that state's fiscal plight," Rainwater said, noting that a freeze offered by Senate and Assembly Republicans could potentially require Madison Schools to cut as much as $15 million from its current budget.
Rainwater indicated, however, that due to revenue limits, the essentially status quo budget will still mean a reduction of about $5 million in services to children from Madison's budget for the 2002-03 school year.
"Over the near term, it is essential that changes to school funding are made to protect our children's future," Rainwater said, urging a "serious and comprehensive look at the school finance system for the next biennium to ensure there is not a continuing erosion of this state's outstanding K-12 system.
"I applaud the Governor's efforts to protect public school students in the Budget Reform Bill and look forward to working together to resolve the school funding problem long term."
Public Information Office
545 W. Dayton St.
Madison, WI 53703
608-663-1879
email: newsrelease@madison.k12.wi.us
Last Modified: 2002-01-31
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