MADISON — State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly released the following statement today in response to Governor Evers’ signing of the 2023-25 biennial budget.

“Any increase in spending authority for public schools is better than none, especially given that past budgets failed to provide that investment. I am thankful that elected leaders in Wisconsin have recognized the need to better support our public schools.

“This budget is a strong start, thanks in large part to Governor Evers’ veto. It offers districts an ongoing foundation of revenue growth to build from. But we continue to need answers to the growing shortages and inequities caused by a lack of mental health, nutrition, and special education funding, as well as the imbalances caused by publicly funding two education systems, and only one of which really serves all kids. I hope we can rectify that in future budgets.

“To reflect the value we should be placing on Wisconsin’s children and our collective future, we must robustly fund our public schools in a visionary way. I am hopeful this budget can be an initial step in that direction.”