Wisconsin schools face enrollment decline despite record staffing levels
Wisconsin's public schools have seen a sharp drop in student numbers while hiring more staff than ever before. Between 2019-2020 and 2024-2025, pupil numbers fell by 47,092, yet schools added 2,141 employees. This marks the highest staffing levels in Wisconsin history alongside the lowest student count since the early 1990s.
A report by the Wisconsin Legislative Audit Bureau found that pandemic recovery funds were used slowly and with little transparency. Schools received an extra $1,745.98 per student over two years but spent only 34% of the money in the first six months. Even after 17 months, 21% of the funding remained unallocated.
The reports highlight a mismatch between declining enrolment and rising staff numbers in Wisconsin's schools. With pandemic funds largely spent on permanent costs, questions remain about long-term financial sustainability. The recommendations now push for clearer accountability in how future education funding is managed.
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