Rep. Robyn Vining Introduces Bill to Support Students, Teachers, School Districts & Summer School Programs

MADISON – Today, State Representative Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa), State Representative Sondy Pope (D-Mount Horeb), State Representative Sara Rodriguez (D-Brookfield), and State Senator Chris Larson (D-Milwaukee) introduced LRB-3142, the Summer School Counts bill, adjusting the count for summer school enrollment for purposes of school district revenue limits. 

Currently, only 40 percent of full-time equivalent (FTE) summer school membership is counted for revenue limit purposes, rather than a full 100 percent of FTE. This bill would increase the amount of summer school FTE that can be counted for revenue limit purposes from 40 percent to 100 percent, phased in over a 3-year period. By increasing the FTE count for summer school, many districts would receive funding which would allow them to provide higher-quality summer school offerings and pay staff at rates consistent with school year reimbursements. Rep. Vining issued the following statement regarding his legislation: 

“Our students, teachers, parents, family members, caretakers, faculty, and administrators have all worked tirelessly throughout the past year under extremely difficult circumstances. This funding for summer school programming could provide opportunities for students to catch up, fill gaps or accelerate their learning, and move from surviving to thriving after this difficult school year impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as provide appropriate pay rates for the teachers that continue to dedicate their time to these students.  

“High quality summer school programming is a critical tool for supporting vulnerable learners and assisting high school students to stay on track for graduation. Summer school programming also benefits high-performing learners, by allowing them to participate in accelerated classes and other academic opportunities, so they can earn college credits and participate in internships and other off-campus professional development opportunities, or even graduate early. Additionally, summer school programs can promote mental and physical wellness for students, which is crucial as we emerge from this pandemic. 

“Let’s ensure that students, teachers, faculty, and school districts have the support they need, during the school year and throughout the summer.”

Rep. Vining represents the 14th Assembly District, which includes parts of Brookfield, Wauwatosa, and Milwaukee. For more information, visit Rep. Vining’s website here. 

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.