2nd Assembly District candidates have differing views on education funding

In Wisconsin’s 2nd Assembly District candidates differ on school funding, candidates share their views on the school funding formula and revenue caps:

"What is the appropriate formula for funding school districts and should revenue caps remain in place?"

Frank Lasee, R-Bellevue:

The current mix of general state taxes paying for two-thirds of the cost of our schools and the other third being paid by the local taxpayer is fair and should be maintained. It allows for property tax relief and for some level of local input and control. Most of the schools in this area are getting about two-thirds state funding, some a bit more.

There are some that are proposing an increase in sales taxes to lower property taxes and spend more on our schools. On a statewide average, we spend $11,500 per student. Perhaps, if this tax shift wasn't just a way to increase the tax burden on all us, it could be considered. This is simply a way to reach deeper into the taxpayers' pockets, and something that I oppose.

It also will take away even more local input and control. Whoever provides all the money, or the vast majority of it, will make all the rules. Over time, there will be a one-size-fits-all mentality that will not recognize or allow for local efforts and local differences. This is not to the benefit of our students in the long run.

I support the continuation of the revenue controls, because it gives local taxpayers a say over major spending proposals and keeps our schools on a reasonable budget. The referendum process requires school officials to make a case for and explain their reasons for the additional spending and the increased taxes to pay for it...

Ted Zigmunt, Manitowoc County Board of Supervisors and president of the village of Francis Creek:

The state's current school funding formula, along with revenue caps, is causing many Wisconsin school districts to experience severe financial problems. The lack of adequate funding is causing districts to turn to tax referenda, the possibility of merging school districts or even shutting down completely.

No matter what school district children are born in, all should have an equal opportunity for a quality education. That is not happening now. It is my understanding that each district's per-pupil budget is based on the level of spending when the formula was set in 1992. Many things have changed since that time.

Costs have risen across the board, hurting the districts that were controlling their spending in the early years of the formula. Especially in areas with declining enrollment, districts are finding it harder and harder to find the money needed to educate our children and grandchildren...