Wisconsin Education News

August 20, 2026

A daily update of education news and events that are taking place around Wisconsin. 

2026 Elementary Principals’ Convention
Registration is open for the Elementary Principal's Convention at the Grand Geneva Resort from October 7-9, 2026.

WI School Counselor Caravan
This year, DPI is introducing something entirely new: the first DPI and WSCA School Counselor Caravan. Instead of asking school counselors to travel for updates, we’re bringing state‑level resources, timely information, and practical tools directly to regions across Wisconsin. Because this is a brand‑new effort, it has been built around what school counselors in Wisconsin say they need most right now. The Caravan focuses on relevant, Wisconsin‑specific issues grounded in the day‑to‑day realities of our schools. No generic PD. Just meaningful support tailored to Wisconsin’s school counseling landscape.

Dodgeville school board scales back referendum ask
The Dodgeville School District voted to lower its referendum ask after a survey showed a $2.5 million request would likely fail.

School District of Janesville joins adapted sports league
The School District of Janesville launched an Adapted Sports League at Craig and Parker high schools, becoming the first district in Rock County to establish an adapted sports program.

Appleton Area School Board delays final vote on pay raises for teachers
The Appleton Area School Board is delaying a final vote on teacher pay raises for the upcoming academic year.  It says contract talks with the teachers’ union are at an impasse.

Five bus routes consolidated for the Stevens Point Area School District
The Stevens Point Area Public School District consolidated five bus routes to prepare for the 2026-27 school year. It expects to bus over 4,000 students this year.

FINDING BALANCE: Screen Time, Social Media & Youth Well-Being
Children and teens are growing up in a world where screens, social media and digital technology are woven into nearly every aspect of daily life. While media can create opportunities for learning, connection and creativity, many parents and caregivers navigate questions about how screen time affects children’s health, behavior and emotional well-being.

New Ranking Of Wisconsin's Public High Schools Released By U.S. News
These public high schools in Wisconsin earned the highest spots in the state.