Milwaukee City Wire

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) has released an additional $17 million in state funding to Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS). The funds, which had been previously withheld, were made available after the district completed necessary financial reporting requirements to the DPI.

The newly released funds are allocated for the 2023-24 fiscal year and will support students with special needs as well as students who are parents. This follows last week’s release of $16 million for similar purposes tied to the 2022-23 school year.

State Superintendent Jill Underly commented on the development: “While there is more work ahead, this marks another positive step in MPS’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its financial reporting system. I’m grateful for Dr. Cassellius’s leadership, the dedication of MPS staff, and the hard work of our team at the DPI as we continue working to ensure students and families in Milwaukee have the resources and opportunities they need and deserve.”

A final installment of about $8 million is expected to be released once external partners submit their audit for MPS covering 2023-24.

Superintendent Brenda Cassellius stated: “We are committed to fulfilling our obligations, modernizing our systems and rebuilding the public’s trust. DPI has been a strong partner with our finance team. I thank them all for their tireless work and dedication. We look forward to transitioning to financial systems that will be fully aligned with the state.”

MPS continues its collaboration with organizations such as the Council of the Great City Schools in order to improve accuracy, efficiency, and modernization of its financial processes.

Milwaukee Board of School Directors President Missy Zombor expressed appreciation for those involved: “This second release of aid shows a sustained commitment to improve systems and continue to provide services and programs that our students need. The board supports this important work and provides oversight and accountability to help move it forward.”