Outgoing Teachers Union Leader Concerned About Changes to Education Funding

In his last days as co-president of the La Crosse Education Association (LEA), Jesse Martinez says a recent Federal vote and changes to Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers’ education budget have him concerned about kids in school.

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Martinez accused 3rd District Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-Prairie du Chien) of breaking his word that there would not be cuts to Medicaid and SNAP when he voted for the federal budget blueprint late last week. SNAP is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food stamps.

In a May 5 press release on Congressman Van Orden’s website says the Congressman is asking the House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson to reconsider adjustments to the SNAP program. Van Orden is concerned with the proposal that would shift 25% of SNAP funding to state governments. Van Orden said rather than make cuts, the federal government should focus on inefficiencies.

The teachers union co-president says the Trump administration has decimated the federal Department of Education by cutting its funding in half. Martinez fears jobs will be lost and with Medicaid funding special education programs, those students will be impacted.

The LEA leader voiced further frustration when talking about the State of Wisconsin Budget. Martinez says Governor Evers put forth a budget for education that improves education only to have it thrown out and statewide elected officials are starting from scratch.

Jesse Martinez completes his co-presidency of LEA. He decided not to seek re-election. His co-president, Jill Schams, was elected to the full position. Martinez’s last day serving is Wednesday.