Article Summary –
Wisconsin has seen several controversies in its public education system, including new laws regarding early literacy instruction, censorship issues, and alleged discrimination. In June 2023, the state passed Act 20, altering instruction, curriculum, assessment and intervention for literacy in grades K-3, with schools required to assess students’ literacy, notify parents of results, and report to the Department of Public Instruction. Other contentious issues include the firing of a teacher for wanting to use a song deemed controversial by her school administration, and a principal suing his school district for allegedly not renewing his contract due to his sexual orientation.
Wisconsin School Board Elections Amid Controversial Topics
The April 2 Wisconsin school board elections are a significant event in a volatile period for public education in the state. Issues such as censorship have been debated in school board races, with far-right candidates and pro-public education contenders vying for board seats.
Key Events in Wisconsin Education
Many noteworthy incidents have shaped Wisconsin education this past year.
Act 20
Signed by the Democratic Governor Tony Evers in June 2023, Act 20 has reformed how Wisconsin schools teach reading to early elementary students, according to a state fact sheet. The law established a Council on Early Literacy Curricula and introduced a variety of changes to K-3 instruction, curriculum, assessment, and intervention. Despite criticism, the Republican-controlled committee overrode the DPI’s recommendations.
“Rainbowland” Controversy
Melissa Tempel lost her teaching job with Waukesha School District after her criticism of the administration for banning the song “Rainbowland” from her class’ spring concert. Tempel sued the Waukesha School District and in December, a judge denied the school district’s motion to dismiss her lawsuit.
Racine County Principal Incident
Former Raymond Elementary School principal Jeff Peterson sued the Raymond School District in October 2023 after his contract wasn’t renewed, alleging discrimination due to his sexual orientation. Despite parent support, the school board voted against renewing Peterson’s contract.
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