Half of Wisconsin’s special education teachers leave after 5 years

There aren’t enough teachers. While school administrators across the state know that problem all too well, they’ll at least get a little help with recruitment and retention of special education teachers.

That’s because the US Department of Education recently gave the state $10.5 million, and according to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), the money will be used for specialized training and coaching for new special education teachers and leaders. It will also create a teacher residency program.

And we need the help. According to DPI data, 49% of Wisconsin’s new special education teachers either leave the state or the profession altogether by their sixth year.

“Supporting the development of new educators and working to retain them is critical to resolving staffing challenges,” State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly said. “This federal funding will help districts increase professional growth opportunities, implement innovative retention strategies, and ensure that every Wisconsin student has access to the high-quality, dedicated educators they deserve.”

In addition to a proposal for the state to increase special education funding as part of her 2025-27 Biennial Budget request, Dr. Underly announced a $60 million proposal to strengthen the state’s education workforce. It provides stipends to eligible student teachers to help cover expenses and reduce debt, grows the educator workforce through a new state-funded grow-your-own grant program, and expands a support program for new educators.