Update on Legislation: It's Up to the Governor (and YOU)!

From the WATG Government Action Committee
The state legislature passed the gifted education legislation earlier this month, and it will go forward to the governor for his signature (or his veto!) as AB903. It is expected to go to Gov. Evers at least by April 14 (though it's possible that it would move sooner).

This is the bill that would increase transparency, accountability, and equity in gifted education in Wisconsin. (It does not mandate anything about how districts must identify or program for advanced learners.) You can find the bill's full text and its history at
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2021/proposals/ab903.
Thanks so much to those of you who contacted your state Senator and/or Assembly Representative! 

Now for the final step. The legislation was NOT passed unanimously, so we need to let Gov. Evers know how important it is to Wisconsin students and their families. (Many Democrats voted against it, not because they're against gifted education, but because they consider many new education bills to contain unfunded mandates.) The contact is easy: just go to
https://appengine.egov.com/apps/wi/governor/voice-an-opinion
​and complete the online form using your HOME contact information. Your request goes on the line that says "Share your opinions with Governor Evers." You can say something as simple as "Please sign AB903 into law!" but you may also add why it's important to you or your child. (For more detail and ideas, see our earlier newsletter articles at https://www.watg.org/advocacy-blog.)

You may also call the governor's office with your message at 608-266-1212.  Please make your online or phone contact in the next few days - it will take time for the staff to log all the requests that the governor is receiving at this very busy time of year!

Pam Clinkenbeard
Government Action Chairperson
Wisconsin Association for Talented and Gifted