The Wisconsin state superintendent election is set for April 1, 2025, with incumbent Jill Underly, a Democrat, running for a second term against Republican-backed education consultant Brittany Kinser. As the election nears, both candidates present contrasting views on education reform, school funding, and accountability in the state's public education system.
Underly, who has led the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) since 2021, is no stranger to the challenges facing the education sector. After beginning her career as a social studies teacher and advising first-generation students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she took on significant responsibilities at the DPI. She emphasizes her commitment to public education, especially in the aftermath of funding cuts proposed by federal authorities under the Trump administration. During a March 12 forum at Madison high school, she noted, "My job has just become all the more important because we have to defend public education,” highlighting her determination to protect the rights of students and educators amidst drastic government changes.
Kinser, also 47, arrives in the race with a solid background in the education field but less political experience. A former special education teacher in Chicago, she later worked in the charter school system and currently serves as an education consultant. Kinser identifies herself as a moderate, yet her campaign has gathered significant support from Republican donors, with a fundraising total of around $325,000—over half of which originated from GOP sources.
As both candidates prepare for the election, they engage in vigorous debates over their differing educational priorities. Among the most contentious issues is the handling of fiscal transparency and accountability at Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS). The DPI has faced criticism over its management of financial reporting deadlines, particularly concerning a 2024 referendum in which Underly stated the timing was “perhaps unfortunate,” but she insisted there was no benefit in DPI's involvement. Conversely, Kinser argues the DPI failed in its duty to uphold accountability, suggesting that such issues should have been disclosed more transparently before the referendum.
The race also spotlights the ongoing debate about standardized testing, a critical area of educational policy. Underly's overhaul of Wisconsin’s proficiency benchmarks has sparked accusations from her opponent and some Republicans of “lowering standards.” Underly contends that the changes reflect more accurately the capabilities of today’s students, while Kinser criticizes the lack of public consultation in the decision-making process.
One of the major differences lies in their stances on school choice and vouchers. Underly firmly believes public funding should prioritize public schools and has labeled Kinser as a “voucher lobbyist,” citing her support for legislation that increased funding for charter schools. Kinser, on the other hand, promotes school choice as an essential option for families seeking alternatives when public schools are underperforming. During a March 19 debate, Kinser argued, “You’re just going to cut it off without any solutions and send them to schools that are failing,” expressing her concerns for students trapped in low-performing education settings.
Furthermore, how both candidates propose to tackle Wisconsin’s racial achievement gap has also emerged as an important campaign focus. Wisconsin has reported significant discrepancies between the academic performance of Black and white students, prompting calls for accountability and reform. Kinser advocates for setting clear goals to address these disparities, while Underly stresses the role of increased funding as a fundamental solution. Underly even pledged to sue the Legislature if necessary to secure essential funding for schools.
In the face of these pressing issues, fundraising plays a crucial role in the candidates' campaigns. Kinser has amassed significant support from Republican donors, including $200,000 from the state Republican Party and substantial sums from prominent billionaires. Meanwhile, Underly's base includes the Democratic Party and union backing, notably receiving $106,000 from the state Democratic Party and support from teacher unions. With updated campaign finance reports due soon, the funding dynamics between the two candidates could further change public perception as voters approach decision day.
The environment in which these candidates operate is shaped by the independent nature of the DPI’s office and an increasingly polarized political landscape. Despite the nonpartisan label on the race, the candidates' backing reveals the extent to which national educational debates influence local politics.
Entering this electoral contest, both Underly and Kinser face a challenging landscape that includes a diverse electorate and a multitude of pressing educational concerns. As views on school funding, voucher systems, and the role of public education evolve, voters are presented with an opportunity to express their desires for the future of education in Wisconsin. Early voting is already underway, having started on March 18, 2025, and enthusiasm from both candidates suggests a competitive race ahead.
Ultimately, Wisconsin’s state superintendent election will not just determine the future of K-12 education policy, but also reflect broader issues concerning equity, access, and the governance of public education. As ballots are prepared to be cast on April 1, all eyes will be on the candidates to see how they will navigate these multifaceted challenges and rely upon their visions for a better educational landscape in Wisconsin.
With both candidates poised to champion distinctly different educational philosophies, voters will undoubtedly weigh their choices carefully as they prepare for a decisive day at the polls.
