“Why Wisconsin Must Lead the Charge on Education: The Next Civil Rights Frontier” – Milwaukee Courier Weekly Newspaper

By Dr. LaKeshia N. Myers

Wisconsin faces a serious issue in education. We have one of the largest achievement gaps between Black and white students in the country. This situation is alarming and needs our urgent attention.

The recent scores from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) highlight the challenges. Black students in Wisconsin consistently perform below the national average in reading. In Milwaukee, where many of these students live, the gap is even wider. This is more than just an education problem; it’s a civil rights concern.

The new reading legislation, Act 20, is a hopeful step. It requires evidence-based reading techniques and early screening for difficulties. Yet, this alone won’t close the achievement gap. We need deeper changes to fix the inequalities rooted in our educational system.

As we approach the Wisconsin State Superintendent election, it’s critical for voters to know what’s at stake. The new superintendent will implement Act 20 and influence educational policies during this vital time. It’s not just about appointing a manager; we need a leader who grasps the urgency of our situation and has a clear plan for genuine change.

The impact of educational disparities goes beyond schools. Wisconsin’s economy relies heavily on educational outcomes. If we fail to educate our children properly, we limit their job prospects and hurt our state’s economic growth. Many local businesses report trouble finding skilled workers. This skills gap stems from our inability to provide quality education for all children, no matter their background.

Furthermore, workforce data shows that jobs that require advanced education are increasing in Wisconsin. Sadly, only 31.5% of adults aged 25 and over have a bachelor’s degree or more, which is lower than the national average of 33.7%. While 94% of Wisconsin adults have a high school diploma, only 45% have completed college or earned an associate degree. This education gap holds us back. We must recognize that both college degrees and vocational training are vital for our future.

This issue is especially pressing for Wisconsin’s Black community. Only 17.5% of Black adults aged 25 and older hold a bachelor’s degree or more. While progress has been made, it is slower compared to other groups. The lack of proper academic preparation leads fewer Black and brown students to pursue higher education, creating a cycle of economic inequality that affects not just families, but the economy of our entire state.

Now is the time for everyone invested in public education to step up. Here are some ways to get involved:

• Attend school board meetings: Your voice matters in shaping your child’s education. Stay informed about what’s happening in your district and hold board members accountable.
• Join community budget sessions: Education funding affects classrooms, teacher support, and resources. Engage with local budget discussions and demand that educational equity is prioritized.
• Ask questions: Hold your local and state officials accountable. Inquire about their plans for addressing educational disparities and implementing Act 20 effectively.
• Research the State Superintendent candidates: Understand their positions on education and achievement gaps. Your vote will greatly influence the direction of education in Wisconsin.

The fight for equality in education continues. Dr. King once said, “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically.” We must ensure that every child is granted this essential right.

Wisconsin stands at a critical juncture. We can either accept these overwhelming disparities or unite to demand better for all children. The choice is in our hands, but inaction could hurt future generations. Let’s prioritize education and ensure every child in Wisconsin has the chance to thrive.

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LaKeshia N. Myers,National Assessment of Educational Progress,Racial Disparities,State Superintendent of Public Instruction