State Superintendent Jill Underly proposed an additional $60 million to expand career and technical education programs throughout the state, including FFA.
“Wisconsin students need more meaningful opportunities to explore possible career aspirations – my budget proposal makes a strategic investment in both our students and our communities,” says Underly. “Innovative programs… exist at schools around the state, but not all students have access to those opportunities.”
Wisconsin is one of just six states that do not have ongoing funding dedicated to CTE programs in public schools. The proposal is part of Underly’s 2025-27 Biennial Budget request.
“These offerings help prepare students for the workforce and a future career,” Underly says. “An educated, prepared workforce will help our state in continuing to build our economy.”
Specifically, Underly’s budget request:
- Creates a categorical aid program expanding CTE and career pathway offerings to students across the state. Grant funding would be allocated to districts based on the number of high school students ($45 million over the biennium).
- Provides funding to each of the state’s six Career and Technical Student Organizations (DECA, FCCLA, HOSA, FBLA, FFA and SkillsUSA), which help students in developing citizenship, technical, leadership, and teamwork skills essential in preparing for careers and further education ($9 million over the biennium).
- Increases high quality, robust academic and career planning by providing crucial software and technical support to educators so they can implement one-on-one student centered advising ($400,000 over the biennium).