For example, if UW can’t afford to expand key classes, students have to stay in college longer to finish their requirements. That only delays graduation and increases the cost of college, regardless of flat tuition.

UW System President Ray Cross is seeking $42.5 million in higher state aid in the next state budget, which lawmakers will debate and approve next year. Cross also wants to lift the cap on tuition, which has been in place since 2013.

Cross has identified many legitimate areas of need, including restoring money for advising students, which can shorten their time in college. In addition, the System president wants to better connect graduates with businesses in Wisconsin so more millennials stay here and contribute to the economy.

Cross has proposed more funding for grants to low-income students. Another priority should be extra money to keep star professors and researchers on campus.

State funding of universities, when adjusted for inflation, is at its lowest point since UW System was founded in the 1970s. The System also has reduced its high reserve funds in recent years, as lawmakers intended. The reserves helped cushion the blow of the governor’s $250 million cut. But that well has been tapped.