Wisconsin Behind on Funding Special Education

Thursday, October 13th, 2022 -- 11:00 AM

The Survival Coalition of more than 20 statewide disability organizations agrees with a new report from the Education Law Center concluding that “Wisconsin’s low reimbursement rate for special education will leave school districts on the hook for $1.25 billion, forcing them to divert funds intended for general education for all students.”

Findings from the report showed that in the 2019-2020 school year: Wisconsin schools reported their special education costs were $1.82 billion to support the state’s 120,000 students with disabilities.

After factoring in the state special education reimbursement and funds available through the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, schools were facing a $1.25 billion shortfall from unfunded special education costs.

Wisconsin  special education programs are underfunded, with the impact being greatest  on districts with high-poverty rates and often concurrent higher enrollments in special education.  

Survival Coalition supports additional special education investment in the 2023-2025 biennial budget, specifically to increase state support to 90% to provide relief to local districts and ensure that they can invest adequate local resources for all students.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.