The race for Wisconsin’s state superintendent of public instruction is intensifying as liberal incumbent Jill Underly faces mounting criticism and a wave of support for her challengers. Running to the left of Underly, Jeff Wright, superintendent of Sauk Prairie Schools, has entered the race with endorsements from the Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC) Political Action Committee, the state’s largest teachers’ union, and the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators (AWSA). Meanwhile, former Charter school operator, school choice supporter and literacy consultant Brittany Kinser has also joined the race, backed by center-right groups, further complicating Underly’s re-election bid.

Underly’s first term has been marked by controversies that have left her vulnerable. Republican lawmakers have criticized her for focusing on social issues rather than addressing pressing academic challenges like declining literacy and math scores. Her decision to lower testing standards—widely seen as a move to inflate school performance metrics—has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum. Even Governor Tony Evers, typically aligned with liberal education policies and once supporter of Underly, has withheld his support and publicly criticized Underly for these decisions, arguing that they fail to address systemic issues in Wisconsin schools.

The February primary looms large as only the top two candidates will advance to the April general election. With Wright and Kinser gaining traction, Underly’s path to re-election is increasingly uncertain. Wright, in particular, has emerged as a strong challenger. His endorsements from WEAC and AWSA highlight a growing discontent among educators and administrators with Underly’s leadership. 

AWSA’s endorsement further underscores institutional frustration with Underly, as the organization plays a significant role in shaping public education policy. Similarly, WEAC’s decision to support Wright over Underly signals a major shift within liberal-leaning education circles, reflecting dissatisfaction with her handling of issues like the Milwaukee Public Schools’ looming financial crisis.

Adding to Underly’s challenges, Brittany Kinser has entered the race with backing from center-right groups, including the Young Republicans of Wisconsin who are gathering signatures for her. Kinser has been actively campaigning at GOP-aligned events, positioning herself as a fresh alternative to Underly’s controversial tenure. Her campaign’s growing momentum threatens to fragment the voting base further, making it harder for Underly to secure a spot in the general election.