Humphries Calls for DPI to Give Voters a Voice on ESSA Implementation

Candidate for State Superintendent John Humphries today called for legislation prohibiting DPI from creating or implementing key elements of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) or submitting any final proposal to the federal government until voters have their say and, as required under federal law, there is meaningful input from the governor and legislature.

As a recent report from the independent Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty (WILL) indicates, Tony Evers has fallen far short of his obligations so far.

“Changes to federal law give Wisconsin an unprecedented opportunity to finally enact Wisconsin-centered reforms that help students get ahead. Let’s give the voters a voice in deciding whether they actually want the same old failed plans we’ve seen from Tony Evers for 16 years before he unilaterally signs away this unique opportunity,” Humphries stated.

“Evers must not stand in the way of reforms under ESSA without giving voters, local schools, and parents the chance to weigh in. In less than 90 days, immediately after the April 4th general election, the new State Superintendent-Elect should have the opportunity to review DPI policies and plans before any final action is taken. This will allow time for meaningful engagement with the Governor and Legislature that federal law requires as well as genuine input from students, parents, and educators, not just special interest groups.”

“Tony Evers’ phony ‘listening sessions’ are nothing more than an election-season political ploy.  Instead of just pushing a single plan, as the current superintendent has done, I will truly listen to people from all background and all parts of the state so we can have the best possible outcomes for Wisconsin’s children.”

So far, Tony Evers has fallen far short of the “meaningful engagement” that ESSA requires. Instead, we’ve gotten more top-down decisions that don’t improve outcomes for kids, just like we’ve seen from Tony Evers for 16 years. Isn’t it time for leadership that offers concrete solutions, genuine feedback, and meaningful reforms?”

Humphries for Schools

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.