Teacher shortage hurting students’ education

Turmoil in Madison could be to blame

A teacher shortage in Wisconsin is hurting students’ education. 

That’s the opinion of state superintendent Tony Evers, particularly in Math and Science courses. 

Mark White, director of Human Services with  the School District of La Crosse, says the Act 10 fight was taking place when many students were in college and starting to choose careers. 

He adds more state funding could help the situation, and while the environment has become a little more stable – they are seeing a rebound – White believes the dysfunction in Madison is mostly to blame for the dilemma. 

One challenge, he said, is walking the thin line of paying a teacher what they think they deserve, while also making sure enough funding is in the budget for students’ needs. 

White says the district operates on a case-by-case basis, and pay is given based on the teacher’s experience and skill set.