State expects to provide more funding for schools

School districts across Wisconsin could get a bump in funding for the next school year.

Late last week, the state Department of Public Instruction announced that it expects to increase funding by 2.2 percent from last year. This accounts for $5 billion in support, or nearly $110 million more than for the 2020-2021 school year.

Of the state’s 421 districts, 66 percent, or 276 districts, are estimated to get more support. Only five districts will see no change, and 33 percent will get less money. According to the DPI, 68 districts will receive the maximum 15-percent decrease, which is 18 more districts than last year.

General aid varies depending on property values, enrollment, shared costs and available funding. Enrollment, for example, helps determine how much a district receives from the state. For example, under current law, districts receive $742 per pupil. More students means more money.

General aid is the largest form of financial support for public schools. It also offsets property taxes.

These estimates may change between now and later this year. Amounts will be confirmed and certified on Oct. 15.