Josh Star outlines vision for Milwaukee schools focusing on equity and student safety

The community forum held on February 7, 2025, in Wisconsin, focused on the finalists for the Superintendent position, with a significant emphasis on educational equity and the challenges facing Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS). The forum featured a detailed discussion led by one of the superintendent candidates, who shared personal experiences and insights into the role of a superintendent in fostering an inclusive and effective educational environment.

The candidate began by reflecting on their early teaching experiences, highlighting the importance of being a role model for students, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds. They emphasized the need for schools to be places where every child feels loved, valued, and respected, and where high-quality instruction is the norm. The candidate pointed out the disparities in educational outcomes and the necessity for hard decisions to ensure that all students have access to great schools.

A key theme of the discussion was the candidate's commitment to equity in education. They articulated that equity involves not only allocating resources to those who need them most but also dismantling systemic barriers that hinder student success. The candidate shared their experiences in previous districts where they successfully implemented equity-focused initiatives, stressing the importance of collective effort among educators, parents, and the community.

The candidate also addressed the need for improved communication with parents, particularly in light of recent issues regarding lead exposure in schools. They proposed a multi-faceted communication strategy to ensure that parents are informed and engaged, recognizing the challenges posed by misinformation in the digital age.

In terms of operational structure, the candidate discussed the importance of having strong school leadership and clear roles within the district. They advocated for a collaborative approach to decision-making, where input from various stakeholders, including teachers and community members, is valued.

The forum also touched on pressing issues such as class sizes and teacher recruitment. The candidate acknowledged the perception of overcrowded classrooms and expressed a commitment to addressing this issue through strategic resource allocation. They highlighted the need for effective recruitment and retention strategies to ensure that MPS attracts and retains high-quality educators.

As the discussion concluded, the candidate reiterated their dedication to transparency, equity, and community involvement. They expressed a desire to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to create a supportive and effective educational environment for every student in Milwaukee. The forum provided a platform for community members to engage with the candidate and ask questions, fostering a dialogue about the future of education in the district.