The “Why” Behind SAA PAC

By Wisconsin School Administrators Alliance staff | March 1, 2022

Why does the SAA financially support political candidates through SAA PAC?

To help re-elect “friends of public education”. If we don’t help them, the advocates for expanding private school vouchers and independent charter schools are more than willing to write the checks.
To strengthen our working relationships with legislators in key positions to impact education legislation inside the State Capitol.
Ultimately, our goal is to wield significant influence on legislation impacting public education. And influence is all about relationships.

Can the SAA’s comparatively small amount of campaign contributions have any impact in the current sea of campaign cash?

Yes. We focus our limited resources on individuals in key positions that have lots of influence over education legislation. In this fashion, our resources can achieve tremendous “bang for the buck”.

Why do we have to make campaign contributions? Shouldn’t legislators simply listen to SAA members because of their expertise?

I’m reminded of the age-old debate about “what should be” vs. “what is”. Clearly our current system of influence is not perfect; far from it. We do need fundamental campaign finance reform. It simply isn’t coming anytime soon. Right now, our current system is the only system within which we can advocate on behalf of the kids in our schools.
Finally, SAA members contributing to the SAA PAC is an extremely “selfless” political act. Why? Because they know they will never personally gain anything by that contribution. Businesses on the other hand make significant contributions with the expectation that it will improve their business. SAA members make these contributions on behalf of Wisconsin school children.

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