Wisconsin Senate Bill SB88

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/25
• Refer: 3/6/25
• Report Pass: 3/14/25

Caption

The membership of the Professional Standards Council for Teachers.

Impact

The implications of SB88 on state laws will primarily affect the representation and input of tribal educators in state educational governance. By allowing non-DPI licensed teachers who are employed in tribal schools to serve on the PSCT, the bill promotes greater inclusion and acknowledgment of diverse educational environments. This change may enhance the voice of tribal communities in discussions about educational standards and policies, which have historically been underrepresented in state-level conversations concerning education.

Summary

Senate Bill 88 aims to amend the criteria for membership in the Professional Standards Council for Teachers (PSCT) in Wisconsin. Specifically, the bill proposes the removal of the requirement that an individual serving on the council must be a licensed teacher as designated by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI). Instead, the only stipulation would be that the individual is employed as a teacher in a tribal school and is recommended by a federally recognized American Indian tribe or band in the state. This change is significant as it seeks to broaden the representation of tribal educators on the council, potentially leading to more inclusive decision-making in educational policy that reflects the needs of tribal communities.

Contention

As with any legislative change, there may be points of contention surrounding SB88. Supporters are likely to argue that this bill empowers tribal nations to have a say in education that affects their communities, fostering a more representative council. However, opponents might raise concerns about maintaining educational quality standards and whether teaching licenses serve as an important benchmark for membership on the council. The debate will revolve around balancing representation against maintaining established educational standards, making it a nuanced issue within Wisconsin's education policy landscape.