Wisconsin’s School Leader Calls Federal Government a “Bully” 

She describes Wisconsin’s public schools as a “living story” being written daily by students, teachers, and their local communities. But State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jill Underly also warns the “bully” – the federal government – is increasingly disrupting the story with decisions from Washington. Underly joined Pat Kreitlow, host of Mornings with Pat Kreitlow, to discuss her annual State of Education address. She also shares how the future of public education in the state is being challenged by both external political pressure and internal funding struggles.

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Listen to the entire discussion here:

“The biggest schoolyard bully our schools face right now is our own federal government,” Underly says, pointing out recent actions by the Trump administration.  

Federal officials continue to threaten cutting programs that support teachers, special education, and even school nutrition. One move drawing particular attention is the cancellation of funding for Wisconsin’s Deaf-Blind Technical Assistance Program. It provides specialized instruction and resources for one of the state’s most vulnerable student populations.

“It’s just cruel,” Underly says. “These grants provide training for teachers, materials like Braille, and support for kids who deserve to belong in their communities.”

Underly also criticizes Wisconsin’s growing investment in private school vouchers. And adds it’s now approaching a $1 billion price tag. 

“The money is a pie,” she explains. “The piece that goes to privatization keeps getting larger, leaving less for public schools.” 

She points out some districts, like Green Bay, are showing residents on their property tax bills how much funding is being diverted to private schools.

Underly discusses the need for innovation and investment in both students and teachers. She calls for more personalized and competency-based learning, expanded career pathways, and stronger library and technology resources. At the same time, she stresses the urgency of addressing teacher shortages in key areas like math, science, and special education.

“Strong schools need strong educators,” she says while calling for better teacher compensation, mentoring, and professional development.

And as debates continue over standardized testing and accountability metrics, Underly maintains that test scores are only one snapshot of student achievement. 

“We need to prepare kids for their future, not our past,” she explains.

Recently re-elected to a second four-year term, Underly is pledging to remain outspoken. 

“I’ve never shied away from saying what needs to be said when it comes to public schools,” she says. “We need to modernize our system, support our teachers, and ensure every child has access to the nutrition, health care, and learning opportunities they need to succeed.”