Speaker's Task Force Convenes in Wausau

This week, the Speaker’s Task Force on Foster Care met for its second hearing in Wausau. The bipartisan group of lawmakers heard from a variety of experts on foster care, primarily focusing on Community Response Programs (CRP). The programs help parents get access to parental guidance, mental health treatment and other resources that improve parenting and prevent child abuse/maltreatment; one of many factors that can necessitate foster care.

Kenosha County's CRP testified before the committee and shared information that will be useful to the committee and other Community Response Programs. Kenosha County has a robust CRP that could serve as a model for other counties, but many face significant challenges that will need to be addressed going forward.

This fall, the task force will hold several more hearings before releasing a report of the committee’s findings. I’m proud of our efforts but we have more work to do. My colleagues and I are committed to improving the foster care system so that every child in Wisconsin gets the protection and care they deserve.

Have a great weekend!

Softball Team Receives Assembly Honor

This spring, the Oak Creek High School Softball Team competed in the WIAA State Tournament finishing with an impressive 29-2 record and taking home the Southeastern Conference title for the second year in a row. I had the great honor of meeting several of the players and presenting them with an Assembly Citation to commemorate their impressive season!

Oak Creek Unveils 9th Grade Center

The Oak Creek – Franklin School District unveiled the new 9th Grade Center at Oak Creek High School on Monday evening. The ribbon cutting ceremony included students, school administrators and a rally led by the Oak Creek High School Marching Band. I was honored to be there!