About Us

The Department of Public Instruction is the state agency that advances public education and libraries in Wisconsin. The department is headed by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, a nonpartisan, constitutional officer elected every four years.

The agency was created in 1848, the year Wisconsin attained statehood, when the state constitution provided for the establishment of local school districts and a free education for all children in the state.

Since the election of State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster in 2001, the department has focused on fulfilling our New Wisconsin Promise of a quality education for every child in our state. Raising achievement for all students and closing the achievement gap between economically disadvantaged students, students of color, and their peers is our No. 1 priority. We are committed to taking specific steps to ensure that every child graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the 21st century global society.

For more information, visit the state superintendent’s page, read about the Department of Public Instruction in the Executive Branch chapter of the Wisconsin Blue Book, consult the list of DPI divisions and teams, or view recent news from the DPI.

For assistance with the DPI website, use the Ask?Away service.

For questions about this information, contact Benson T. Gardner (608) 266-3374

Last updated on 7/30/2008 3:41:51 PM