MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WRN) — Resources from the Wisconsin Office of School Safety, and its Speak Up, Speak Out 24 hour tip line remain in place this school year.
Director Trish Kilpin says they can help keep schools safe.
“In previous acts of school violence, it often starts with a grievance or an upset,” said Kilpin. “We believe that if we resolve those issues early, we can prevent tragedies.”
Attorney General Josh Kaul says long term funding for the office remains in doubt.
“We had asked in the current budget for approximately $2.2 million,” said Kaul. “Just to put that in perspective, the state currently has a surplus of about $4 billion. So this is something that we certainly can afford. It’s a matter of priorities.”
For now, Department of Justice has reallocated $1,340,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to extend the Office of School Safety. The re-allocated money will fund the office through the end of 2024.
