Hortonville advocates for increased education funding to address low revenue issues

The Village of Hortonville, Wisconsin, held a government meeting on April 6, 2025, where significant discussions centered on the challenges faced by the local school district regarding funding. The meeting highlighted the district's status as a low revenue area, emphasizing its fiscal responsibility and high academic achievement despite financial constraints.

A key point raised was the historical context of the district's funding limitations, which stem from a law enacted in 1993. This law froze school spending at 1993 levels, which has had lasting effects on the district's ability to raise funds per pupil. The speaker noted that while some neighboring districts can raise significantly more per student, Hortonville remains at a disadvantage due to this historical freeze. The disparity in funding creates challenges, especially when accommodating students with special needs who require additional resources, such as one-on-one nursing support.

The speaker urged state legislators to reconsider the funding formula that has left many districts, including Hortonville, struggling to meet the needs of their students. They pointed out that while recent adjustments to the budget have provided some relief for low revenue districts, the changes have not been sufficient to close the funding gap.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for local representatives to advocate for a reevaluation of the funding structure, emphasizing the importance of equitable resources for all students in the state. The ongoing discussions reflect a broader concern about educational funding in Wisconsin and its impact on student success.