The Rural Schools Task Force, chaired by Representative Rob
Swearingen (R-Rhinelander), released its final report and recommendations
Tuesday afternoon.
“I would like to thank the members of the task force for their
hard work and dedication,” said Rep. Swearingen in a statement released by his office. “I have high hopes that the
end result will produce positive legislation that will prove beneficial to
rural Wisconsin.”
One of the task force’s charges was to “maximize
opportunities to incorporate advanced technology” in rural school
districts. WEMTA provided testimony to the task force on December 17 in
Madison, and several recommendations related to technology are included in the
final report. They are:
Create a New Version of the TEACH Program: The
chairman recommends that the Legislature enact legislation that establishes a
new TEACH II grant program that incorporates the following elements:
Statewide broadband access that would provide
broadband circuits to all school buildings in a district;
Block grants to rural districts for technology-based
purposes, such as upgrading networks, purchasing hardware, and paying for
online course content;
State-led digital learning program that would provide
funding for a digital learning program of online and blended learning services
for public, charter, and private schools;
Professional development provided on a statewide
basis for professional development related to digital learning resources and
classroom management to all districts.
Provide Grants or Other Funding to Encourage Virtual
Options for Public Schools: The task force recommends that the Legislature
consider offering grants or other aids to provide assistance and incentives for
school districts to implement virtual learning options.
Exempt One-Time Technology Costs from the Revenue Limits:
The task force recommends that the Legislature consider exempting one-time
technology costs from the revenue limits, which means that a school district
could raise additional funds for purchasing technology without having to obtain
approval from voters in a referendum. The task force recommends the exemption
be limited to purchases like netbooks or software.
Encourage Internet Providers to Extend High-Speed
Internet: The task force recommends that the Legislature explore incentives
to encourage Internet providers to extend service to rural areas that do not
have current access to high-speed Internet.
Allow Flexibility in Teacher Licensing: The task
force recommends greater flexibility in teacher licensure, specifically
in areas of shortage, such as technology and vocational education; to “allow
individuals who have extensive experience or competency in a subject area to
receive a license without obtaining a traditional education degree.”
