About the Friends of Appeton Schools
​​FRIENDS OF APPLETON SCHOOLS is an advocacy group for the successful passing of this much needed supplemental funding. ​Our mission is to to provide community support to ensure AASD stays a competitive district. ​​Our vision is a community that supports our local schools based on a shared belief in the impact that a competitive school district has on our future.
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Thank you for being willing to support this grass roots effort to sustain and enhance the quality of education for our children in Appleton! ​
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a referendum?
A referendum is how school districts get necessary funding beyond state imposed revenue limits. Operational referendums, like what’s being explored now, are needed to cover the ongoing costs of educational services.
Has AASD passed a referendum before?
In Appleton, we've proudly supported our schools by passing a referendum every time funding has been needed since 1993. Let's come together once again to give our schools the support they need! Start by taking the AASD survey by Nov 26th
How does public school funding work?
Wisconsin's public school funding is a mix of state, local, & federal sources with the majority coming from state aid & local property taxes. The state provides both:
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"General Aid" - based on a formula that considers a district's property wealth and enrollment
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"Categorical Aids" for specific needs like special education
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Revenue Limits set by the state control the amount a district can raise from property taxes and general state aid.
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Revenue limits were first set for the 1993-94 school year (Act 16)
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They were made permanent in the 1995-97 state budget
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A referendum is how a district can go above the state’s revenue limit.
How does AASD compare to other school districts?
AASD ranks 14th in per pupil spending among the largest 15 districts in the state. AASD is also below the state average in funding by more than $2,000 per student
How can I help?
Consider hosting a yard sign, attending an info session, and sign up to become a Contactor for your community. Sign up here.