"More accountable, efficient, effective:" Education reform a key piece of Walker's second-term agenda

MADISON (WITI) -- Republican leaders say a bill laying out tough new standards of punishment for lagging schools could be the first order of business in the next legislative session."More accountable, more efficient and more effective for the people of this state," Governor Scott Walker said.Education reform is a key piece of Governor Walker's second-term agenda."We expanded School Choice, we reformed our public schools, but now there's things to build off of that," Governor Walker said.The details of the so-called "Academic Accountability Bill" are still being worked out.State Senator Paul Farrow (R-Pewaukee) says he is circulating a draft of the legislation."The Accountability Bill is a priority.

Gearing up for winter: November 20th is "Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day"

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Governor Scott Walker has proclaimed Thursday, November 20th as Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day in Wisconsin.The Governor’s proclamation (www.dot.wisconsin.gov/news/docs/2014snoplowapprec.pdf) highlights the important role snowplow operators play in keeping people and commerce moving throughout Wisconsin during the winter season.

A call for ornaments: Honor service members via the "Tribute to our Troops" holiday tree

MADISON (WITI) -- Governor Scott Walker and first lady Tonette Walker invite family members of Wisconsin's service members - past and present, home and away - to send a holiday ornament dedicated to their loved one for this year's "Tribute to our Troops" holiday tree.The ornaments will be displayed on one of the large evergreen trees in the executive residence during December's holiday tours.

On the road again: Gov. Walker tours Wisconsin's technical colleges

MADISON (AP)” -- Governor Scott Walker on Thursday, November 6th traveled to technical colleges across the state as part of his Working for Wisconsin tour to promote workforce development, job creation and economic development.Governor Walker met with students and faculty at technical colleges in Milwaukee, Green Bay, Wausau, La Crosse, and Madison to highlight the important role they play in meeting the demands of today’s workforce.