In a recent Milwaukee Public Schools board meeting, educators and community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the ongoing colocation of Pulaski High School and Carmen Schools of Science and Technology. The discussions highlighted significant disparities in classroom space allocation and safety protocols, particularly as Pulaski serves a much larger student population.

Jessica Scott, a science teacher at Pulaski, emphasized the challenges faced by staff and students due to inadequate facilities. With Pulaski accommodating over 1,000 students compared to Carmen's 675, Scott pointed out that Pulaski has only 43 classroom spaces, forcing teachers to share labs and utilize unsuitable classrooms for science instruction. She urged the board to consider ending the colocation to allow Pulaski to expand its programs, particularly its International Baccalaureate (IB) offerings.

Other speakers echoed Scott's sentiments, with Alyssa Newville, a special education teacher, expressing frustration over the lack of appropriate spaces for students in crisis. Newville recounted instances where she had to use a copy room as a de-escalation space, highlighting the unsafe conditions created by the current arrangement.

The board also heard from representatives of Carmen Schools, including CEO Aaron Lippman, who requested a one-year extension on their lease while they transition to a new facility. Lippman emphasized the importance of maintaining stability for their students during this period.

The meeting revealed a growing consensus among Pulaski staff and community members that the current colocation model is inequitable and detrimental to student learning. Many called for immediate action to reallocate classroom spaces to better reflect the needs of the larger student body at Pulaski.

As the board deliberated, Director Zombar proposed a resolution to modify the lease agreement with Carmen, ensuring that any changes to space utilization would be documented and approved by the board. The motion passed, signaling a potential shift towards addressing the longstanding issues of space and equity within the district.

The discussions underscored the urgent need for the Milwaukee Public Schools board to reevaluate the colocation strategy and prioritize the educational needs of all students, particularly those at Pulaski High School.