Gov. Scott Walker defends school vouchers plan

OSHKOSH - While in Oshkosh Wednesday, Republican Governor Scott Walker said he's willing to compromise on his school voucher plan.

Some Senate Republicans have said they oppose the governor's plan.

Democrats and a state teachers union are also opposed.

"For those that share my belief that every child in the state should have access to a good education, there are ways we can work beyond just what we put in the budget," said Walker.

But the governor stopped short of saying he's willing to take the plan out of the state budget.

"That's where we discuss things; we don't take other items out of the budget just because there are tough decisions to be made."

Republican Mike Ellis of Neenah has said more than half of Senate Republicans won't vote for the plan as it stands. Fellow Republican Senator Rick Gudex from Fond du Lac says he supports voucher expansion but feels some compromise will be necessary for it to pass.

"Compromise is always a good thing, you know if there are some things that maybe could improve what's in the budget we certainly want to take a look at that, but if it comes to gutting school choice, I wouldn't be in favor of that," said Gudex.

The state's largest teacher's union is also opposed to voucher school expansion, saying the issue needs more study about the effects and effectiveness of voucher schools.

"Studies are showing that voucher schools not only do not outperform public schools, but in many cases they don't perform as well," said Beth Ludeman, executive director of WEAC-Fox Valley.

While it may not be known for several weeks or months what the final plan looks like, Governor Walker is indicating his willingness to compromise will only go so far.

"I'm not willing to compromise on the idea that we should be doing everything we can to make sure that every kid has that bottom line of access to a great education."

A showdown looming outside the classroom with the Legislature's Joint Finance Committee scheduled to begin work on the budget next week.