Pulaski High seeks equitable classroom space amid co-location challenges with Carmen School

In a pivotal meeting on March 18, 2025, the Wisconsin Committee on Accountability, Finance, and Personnel (AFP) gathered to address pressing concerns regarding the educational landscape at Pulaski High School. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as educators and administrators voiced their need for equitable classroom space amid rising enrollment numbers.

Jason O'Brien, principal of Pulaski High School, opened the discussion by highlighting the school's diverse programs, including bilingual and International Baccalaureate (IB) offerings. He noted that the school currently serves over 1,000 students, with projections indicating a significant increase in enrollment for the upcoming school year. O'Brien emphasized the pressing need for additional classroom space, particularly in light of ongoing requests from departments eager to enroll more students.

Luz Hernandez, vice president of the Milwaukee Teachers' Education Association (MTEA), followed O'Brien's remarks with a stark warning about the challenges posed by the co-location of Pulaski and Carmen High School. Hernandez pointed out that while Pulaski's enrollment continues to grow, Carmen's student body remains significantly smaller, yet both schools share an equal allocation of classroom space. This inequity, she argued, must be addressed immediately to ensure that Pulaski students receive the educational resources they need.

The committee members engaged in a robust dialogue about the historical context of the co-location agreement, which has been contentious since its inception in the 2016-2017 school year. Director Zamboore expressed concern over the promises made during the initial approval of the co-location, many of which have not been fulfilled. The committee acknowledged the strain on Pulaski's resources, particularly as it serves a growing bilingual population in an area where other schools are at capacity.

Interim Chief School Administration Officer Michael Harris assured the committee that discussions with Carmen's administration are ongoing, with the goal of finding a solution that accommodates the needs of both schools. However, the immediate proposal before the committee only included a minor increase in classroom space, which many members deemed insufficient given the circumstances.

As the meeting progressed, the urgency of the situation became increasingly clear. Director Herndon and others stressed the importance of addressing these issues not just for the current school year but for the future of Pulaski's students. The committee's commitment to ensuring equitable space allocation was echoed throughout the discussions, with members recognizing the need for a comprehensive plan that prioritizes the educational needs of all students.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for action as Pulaski High School prepares for a new school year. With enrollment numbers on the rise and classroom space at a premium, the committee faces the challenge of navigating complex negotiations to secure a fair and adequate learning environment for its students. The outcome of these discussions will not only impact Pulaski but also set a precedent for how educational resources are allocated in the future.