On the Road

On January 23, State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster keynoted the Wisconsin Library Association/ Wisconsin Educational Media Association (WLA/WEMA) Library Legislative Day in Madison. “In today’s fast-changing world, learning is a life-long pursuit,” Burmaster told the group. “Formal education is a necessity, but learning also must be pursued outside the classroom. At any one time, 75 percent of the population is not enrolled in a formal education program. In communities, large and small, across this state, there are learning opportunities for everyone at their local public library. Libraries are key to education, as well as key to a vibrant culture, a healthy economy, and a strong democracy.”

The gathering of librarians, library trustees, and library supporters representing public, school, academic, and special libraries also heard from Ed Van Gemert, Acting Director of the General Library System at UW-Madison. The Department of Public Instruction, WLA, and WEMA work closely together on budget and legislative issues related to libraries.

Later that day Burmaster, a member of the Wisconsin Technical College System Board, attended the WTCS board meeting in Madison. The agenda included an update on the collegiate transfer program and reports from the tuition workgroup, the college savings board, and the Commission on Enhancing the Mission of UW Colleges. Representatives of Governor Jim Doyle’s staff presented the Governor’s Jobs for the Future Initiative.

On January 25, Burmaster welcomed Wisconsin’s newest legislators to an orientation on the Department of Public Instruction’s organization and mission. DPI managers presented information on the role of their divisions and an overview on the DPI budget. That evening, the state superintendent attended a Mentoring Month Reception held at the Executive Residence by First Lady Jessica Doyle. Governor Jim Doyle has designated January as Mentoring Month in Wisconsin. The reception included mentors and their mentees, along with representatives of Wisconsin businesses that are sponsoring and promoting mentoring programs. Burmaster encourages the support of mentors for students who may otherwise struggle to fully develop their skills and knowledge, shape their own destiny, and become important contributors to our state and its future.

Last updated on 1/29/2007