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Dear Editor;
As my kids look forward to school next week, I've been reflecting on the importance of having strong public schools in our communities. I truly believe that Strong Schools = Strong Communities.
But public schools, especially rural ones (which make up 60% of the schools in our state), need our help more than ever before. For decades, they have been funded using an outdated formula that benefits large urban schools over small rural ones. Combined with recent and massive budget cuts to education (under Walker), many schools are struggling and concerned about their long term viability.
I believe that Wisconsin can once again fund schools appropriately and become the progressive state that it used to be. But I also believe that this requires a change of leadership in our government and that 2018 a critical time to take action.
Fortunately, we have several outstanding candidates that are dedicated to making our public schools a top priority again! Jeff Wright (State Assembly), Kriss Marion (Senate), and Tony Evers (Governor) believe that investing in high quality teachers, well-equipped classrooms, and adequately funded schools provides a solid foundation to learn, grown, and ultimately to become contributing citizens in our communities. This benefits all of us.
Please join me in voting for these fine candidates in November!
Jessica Wieczorek
Dodgeville