News and information for staff members and the Madison community
Vol. II No. 6 - April 10, 2007
Superintendent Art Rainwater told members of the Joint Finance Committee that, "The real issue for superintendents across the state is revenue limits," and how the cuts required by school districts to comply with state-imposed revenue limits are diminishing opportunities for students.
Rainwater told the committee that revenue limits force districts to cut programs they know are valuable. He said, "Revenue limits mean that thirteen percent of our low-income children won't be in SAGE classes next year," alluding to his 2007-08 budget recommendation that SAGE be discontinued at schools where the overall low income enrollment is less than 30 percent. Currently, almost 95% of the district's low-income children are in SAGE classes with a 15:1 pupil-teacher ratio.
In pointed comments to the JFC members Rainwater said, "Have the courage to look at the state standards you passed many years ago, and give us the resources to meet those standards. We can't continue to fool people that the standards can be met without resources. Change the standards, or provide the resources."
The JFC will begin work on making changes to the Governor's budget in late April or early May. Take a moment now to contact your legislator and JFC members about key state budget issues for Madison Schools.
Last Updated: Tue May 1 16:08:32 2007
Comments: comments@madison.k12.wi.us
Web Publisher: Chris Burch, cburch@madison.k12.wi.us
Technical Issues: webmaster@madison.k12.wi.us