Article Summary –
Republicans in the Wisconsin Legislature rejected 11 new curricula recommended by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), instead choosing a shorter list of reading curricula. The DPI criticized this, expressing concerns of improper review and potential lawsuits over non-approved curricula. The DPI also disapproved of the recommendation process of the literacy curriculum council, stating that their rubric for scoring differed from standards set by Act 20, and the council’s selection process had exposed the state to potential legal challenges.
Wisconsin Legislature Rejects Recommended Reading Curricula for K-3 Students
March saw Republicans in the Wisconsin Legislature disregarding 11 new curricula proposed by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). These curricula, aimed at teaching reading to kindergarteners and grades 1-3 students, were replaced by a shorter list, despite potential legal ramifications and lack of proper review.
Act 20 and the Council on Early Literacy Curricula
Democratic Gov. Tony Evers implemented Act 20 last year, altering early childhood literacy instruction in Wisconsin. This law formed a Council on Early Literacy Curricula within the DPI’s Office of Literacy, consisting of nine appointees. This council is responsible for recommending science-based literacy curricula for K-3 annually.
Impact on Wisconsin School Districts
While Wisconsin’s school districts are not obligated to use the approved curricula, they can secure extra state funding if they do. However, the DPI claims that the Curriculum Council failed to validate its initial list of recommended early literacy curricula due to timing and vendor submissions.
Political Influence and Curriculum Recommendations
With a Republican majority in Wisconsin’s Assembly and Senate, six of the nine council members are Republican appointees. The DPI, in a February letter, expressed concerns that the council’s actions had exposed Wisconsin to potential legal challenges.
Resulting Curricula Recommendations and Reactions
The council recommended a mere four options for an early literacy instruction curriculum. Despite this, the Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee chose to ignore the DPI’s extended list of 11 recommended curricula. Republican Sen. Duey Stroebel supported the decision, stating the council’s recommendations represent quality. Democratic Sen. LaTonya Johnson criticised the decision, warning of potential lawsuits from unselected vendors.
DPI’s Response to the Decision
DPI’s head Jill Underly expressed her disappointment with the budget committee’s decision in a statement. Underly stated that limiting the curricula for additional state funding disregards the potential reach and impact of curricular changes for Wisconsin students.
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