Wisconsin Superintendent Criticized School Funding Policies

State education officials warned of risks following a decline in referendum approval rates across the state.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Education — General

Wisconsin Superintendent Criticized School Funding Policies

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State Superintendent Jill Underly used the annual State of Education address to criticize current funding policies and urge support for pro-public schooling candidates. She highlighted the challenges facing districts as public support for school budget referendums wanes.

Why it matters

Funding levels for public schools in Wisconsin are the result of deliberate political choices regarding state aid and tax limits. These policies have created a cycle where districts must increasingly rely on referendums to cover operational costs.

Referendum approval rates fell to 61% this past year compared to a 70% rate between 2020 and 2025. Over 90% of schools have set referendums for budget increases within the last nine years.

The players

Jill Underly

She serves as the State Superintendent of Wisconsin and oversees the state department of public instruction.

Hustisford School District

This is a local school district that ceased operations following a failed financial referendum.

The details

The Hustisford School District recently ceased operations and relocated 230 students after failing to pass a $3.75 million referendum in April. Officials noted that Wisconsin Act 16 has limited school funding since 1993, with inflation adjustments ending in 2009.

1856: Wisconsin opened the first kindergarten in the state.
1993: Wisconsin Act 16 limited school funding.
2009: Annual inflation funding adjustments for schools stopped.
April 2026: The Hustisford School District referendum failed.
September 29, 2026: Wisconsin held its annual State of Education address.

Culture Shift

Wisconsin Act 16 serves as the primary legislative framework that has dictated school funding constraints since 1993. This address updates the ongoing conversation regarding the sustainability of public schooling models under these fiscal restrictions.

Residents in districts facing budget shortfalls may see shifts in school service availability or consolidation efforts. Taxpayers should monitor upcoming local election ballots for school referendums as district reliance on these votes continues to grow.

The takeaway

The recent closure of a local district highlights the increasing tension between state funding limits and the rising costs of school operations. Communities are encouraged to engage with local fiscal planning to better understand the budgetary requirements of their school districts.