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Office of Policy


The Office of Policy leads the agency’s work in legislative engagement, administrative rulemaking, and the development of the biennial budget. The office plays a critical role in shaping the legal, regulatory, and fiscal landscape of public education in Wisconsin. As the liaison between DPI, the Legislature, the Governor’s office, and other state agencies, the Office of Policy ensures that the department’s priorities are represented and aligned with legislative activities.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Legislative Affairs: Coordinates DPI’s legislative agenda, including reviewing, analyzing, and developing positions on proposed legislation; engaging with lawmakers and their staff; and providing technical expertise to support sound education policy development.
  • Bill Tracking and Policy Analysis: Monitors education-related bills in the Wisconsin State Legislature and at the federal level, assesses their potential impact on public education, and communicates findings to DPI leadership and stakeholders.
  • Legislative Testimony and Engagement: Prepares briefing materials and coordinates public testimony by the state superintendent and DPI leadership at legislative hearings.
  • Administrative Rulemaking: Manages the rulemaking process under Wisconsin Chapter 227, ensuring DPI rules are legally compliant, informed by input, and aligned with legislative intent.
  • Rule Drafting and Coordination: Leads the drafting and revision of administrative rules in collaboration with DPI program offices, the Office of Legal Services, and external partners.
  • Public Hearings and Comment Integration: Coordinates the public comment process for rulemaking, ensuring transparency and stakeholder feedback are incorporated into final rule language.
  • Biennial Budget Development: Leads the preparation and coordination of the Biennial Budget , working closely with program offices, finance staff, and policy advisors to identify funding priorities and justify needed investments in public education.
  • Interagency and Government Relations: Acts as a primary point of contact between DPI and the Governor’s office, state agencies, and other governmental bodies to align education policy and fiscal initiatives.