Senator Will Haskell: Forced School Regionalization Not Included in the State Budget

For months, I’ve lobbied our state’s leaders to drop the issue of forced school regionalization and instead invest in student success in every district. I want to let you know that yesterday, the Appropriations Committee approved a budget that did not include any aspect of school regionalization.

While these proposals were made in an effort to improve our state’s fiscal situation, the reality is that forced regionalization risks negatively impacting the classroom experience of students. That’s why I worked alongside thousands of constituents to advocate for our community schools. The budget released today reflects the belief that the best way to improve educational outcomes for every student is to invest in all classrooms and fully fund the Education Cost Sharing formula.

Our hard work has paid off, and I’m grateful for your input along the way. I will continue to meet with parents, teachers, students and superintendents to improve public education across the state, maintain local control and invest directly in our classrooms.

As we made this important step, I’m more confident than ever that our democratic process works. I hope you’ll continue to reach out about the issues that matter most to you.