MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin will increase its support for special education funding under the state’s biennial budget passed earlier this month, marking the largest boost in nearly three decades, though public school advocates argue the increase falls short of what’s needed.
The budget allocates nearly $1.4 billion for schools and raises the state’s special education reimbursement rate from approximately 30% to 42% in the first year and 45% in the second year. This means in year two, schools will get $0.45 to every dollar spent on special education costs.
“We were advocating for 90% reimbursement for special education,” said Peggy Wirtz-Olsen, a teacher and president of the Wisconsin Education Association Council. “We need full reimbursement for special education needs.”…