Madison Reporter

MADISON, Wis. (July 2, 2024)—The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) has released its estimates of general school aid for the 2024–25 school year, projecting $51.4 million for the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD). This funding supports various educational expenses, including curriculum, classroom supplies, and staff wages.

“We anticipated that we would receive approximately 32% more in general aid than we did last year, and our projected numbers are actually close to the nearly 36% increase DPI is estimating,” said Bob Soldner, the district’s Assistant Superintendent of Financial Services. “DPI’s estimate is $1.4 million more than our projection of $50 million, which we included in the recently approved 2024-2025 preliminary budget.”

MMSD plans to ask taxpayers for authority to increase its revenue limit through referenda in the fall. The district has provided a brief list of questions and answers to address how DPI’s estimated general aid will impact operations:

**If funding is increased, why do the operations and facilities referenda matter?**

Public schools remain underfunded with state support not keeping pace with inflation. MMSD faced a $20.8 million funding gap for the 2023–24 school year. Additionally, public schools operate under a state-imposed revenue limit formula that dictates annual state aid and local taxes. Over the past decade, this limit has become increasingly restrictive.

**How does this increase of $1.4 million impact the district’s preliminary budget?**

Currently, the increase in general school aid is only an estimate. The final amount will be determined by October 15.

**How will my property taxes be impacted?**

As the increase is similar to projections included in the preliminary budget, there are no significant impacts on property taxes at this time.

**What happens if the $51.4 million does not change and remains the final number in the fall?**

If finalized at $51.4 million, $1.4 million less in property taxes will be collected in fall 2024.

For more information about MMSD's 2024 referenda and preliminary budget, visit MMSD’s website or contact Communications staff by phone (608-663-5932), email (communications@madison.k12.wi.us), or via the Let’s Talk platform on their website.

About MMSD:

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is Wisconsin's second-largest school district, serving over 25,000 students across 52 schools. With more than 4,500 teachers and staff, MMSD aims to ensure every student graduates ready for college, career, and community.