WiRSA (Wisconsin Rural Schools Alliance) - Strong Schools - Strong Communities
Informational Update on the Lawsuit “Wisconsin PTA, et.al. V. Wisconsin Assembly”
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In February 2026, Wisconsin community members, school districts, and education associations filed a lawsuit against the Wisconsin State Assembly, Wisconsin State Senate, and members of the Joint Committee on Finance – Wisconsin PTA, et.al. V. Wisconsin Assembly.
The Wisconsin Rural Schools Alliance recognizes and appreciates the courage and leadership of our member districts and organizations serving as plaintiffs in the effort to secure fair and adequate funding for Wisconsin’s public schools.
Recent Articles:
Do you want to understand more about the lawsuit?
Law Forward, representing the lawsuit, is willing to present the case and answer any questions your organization may have. If Interested, please use this form to request a speaker for your organization: https://www.fundwipublicschools.org/request-a-speaker
Expanding Access to Experience in Rural Education: NREA Announces Partnership with SchoolSims
This partnership is grounded in a shared belief that meaningful professional learning is rooted in experience. Together, NREA and SchoolSims will explore how scenario-based, simulation-driven learning can expand access to those experiences—allowing teachers and leaders to engage realistic challenges, consider multiple perspectives, and reflect on decisions in a structured and supportive environment.
Through this work, the partnership aims to reinforce the great work that NREA already does and:
Support the development of teachers through practice-based learning
Strengthen leadership pipelines by engaging aspiring leaders in real-world decision-making
Provide flexible, job-embedded professional learning opportunities
Reduce professional isolation by creating shared experiences for discussion and reflection
Ensure that rural contexts and challenges are authentically represented in learning experiences
WiRSA Conference 2026 ”Celebrating Innovation and Resilience”
WiRSA Conference Room Reservations - OPEN NOW!
Rate: $101.00 Single Occupancy State Rate - $124.00 Double Occupancy State Rate
Guests can book their reservations online 24 hours a day by using the following link: Holiday Inn Express: WiRSA Conference 2026
Making reservations over the phone, please call 715-344-0200 and press #1. When making reservations, please reference the group name, WiRSA Conference 2026, or the Group Block Code: WIR.
Group rate will be available until 09/28/2026 (or until the block is full). Remaining rooms in your will be released for general reservations at the hotel's prevailing daily rate, which may be higher than your group rate.
BOOK YOUR ROOM TODAY!
WiRSA Conference Registration- OPEN NOW!
Thursday, October 29 & Friday, October 30, 2026
Welcome Reception
Wednesday, October 28, 2026 - 6:00 p.m.
Stevens Point Convention Center - Stevens Point, WI
A conference for administrators, board members, teachers, CESA employees, higher education professionals, public library administrators, elected officials, and citizens passionate about rural school and community issues.
WiRSA Conference - CALL FOR PROPOSALS
“Celebrating Innovation & Resilience” focuses on how rural schools thrive by responding to challenges and limitations with creative solutions. Breakout sessions will align with one of the following tracks:
Resource Management & Collaboration: Strategies for utilizing limited resources; managing budgets; addressing declining enrollment; and responding to community needs, such as school-sponsored child care or health care/mental health partnerships.
Technology & Future Readiness: Focusing on emerging technologies, preparing students for a workforce shaped by AI, and leveraging AI tools for school leaders.
Educational Pathways & Programs: Highlighting innovative educational programs and effective classroom practices, including Academic and Career Planning (ACP), high school pathways, dual credit options, and the development of partnerships with higher education and businesses.
Proposals are due by Friday, June 26, 2026
Governor Evers Signed Bills and Vetoes
Policy Intelligence and Education News
Wisconsin School Safety Coordinators Association
