Statler confident progress is coming on education issues

August 18, 2026 - 15:37

The chairman, who has been meeting regularly with local superintendents across the state, acknowledged that the process has been slow at times but stressed that the conversations are productive. He pointed to ongoing discussions about funding formulas, teacher shortages, and classroom resources as areas where both sides are finding common ground.

"We are not going to solve everything overnight, but we are moving in the right direction," he said. "The superintendents are bringing real concerns from their districts, and we are listening. That is how change happens."

The meetings have focused on how to distribute state aid more fairly, especially to rural and underfunded districts. There has also been talk about reducing administrative burdens so that more money reaches the classroom directly. The chairman said that while no final agreements have been signed, the tone of the talks is cooperative rather than confrontational.

He also hinted that a draft proposal could be ready within the next few weeks, though he stopped short of promising a specific timeline. For now, he said, the goal is to keep the lines of communication open and build trust between the legislature and local school leaders.

Superintendents who have attended the sessions described them as frank and useful, with both sides willing to make concessions. The chairman echoed that sentiment, saying that the days of talking past each other are over. He added that the public should expect to see tangible outcomes in the next legislative session, even if they are incremental.

"We are laying the groundwork for something lasting," he said. "It takes time, but it is worth it."