Community voices urgent call for school funding reform

During a recent McFarland School Board meeting, community member Kelly Thompson addressed the board, emphasizing the critical need for adequate funding in local schools. With 25 years of teaching experience in the district and as a parent of a recent graduate, Thompson highlighted the importance of community engagement in the upcoming referendum process.

Thompson, who participated in the referendum engagement committee, praised the diverse opinions shared during discussions following the April referendum's failure. She urged the board to continue fostering community involvement as they approach the November election, stressing the value of face-to-face conversations over online debates.

She expressed concern about the impact of insufficient funding on student relationships and teacher retention, noting that many new teachers in Wisconsin leave the profession within six years. Thompson pointed out that competitive salaries are essential for retaining educators in McFarland, especially as the needs of students continue to grow.

Her remarks underscored a broader issue of educational funding and its implications for the quality of education in the district, calling for a collective effort from staff, parents, and community members to advocate for students who cannot vote themselves.