As Wisconsin voters weigh in on school referendums, disparities grow between districts
Wisconsin school districts that pass referendums can spend more money, widening the gap between districts that can and cannot, according to a Wisconsin Policy Forum report. In the April 7 election, 46 of 75 school district referendums passed, but the 61.3% passage rate was lower than the 90% rate in 2018.
Wisconsin school districts are experiencing a growing divide in funding due to the passage or failure of school referendums. On April 7, 46 of 75 school district referendums passed, including those in Glendale-River Hills and Lake Country. The 61.3% passage rate was lower than the 90% rate in 2018, indicating a trend of voters becoming more cautious about increasing property taxes to fund schools. According to the Wisconsin Policy Forum, this trend is exacerbating the gap between higher- and lower-funded school districts. In 2005, the difference between the 90th percentile and lower-funded districts was 25%, and this gap has grown over time. Districts are seeking referendums more frequently due to stagnant state funding since 2009.
This content was automatically generated and/or translated by AI. It may contain inaccuracies. Please refer to the original sources for verification.