The Oshkosh Area Board of Education convened on November 13, 2024, to discuss critical issues surrounding student performance and instructional strategies within the district. The meeting focused on the ongoing efforts to improve academic outcomes, particularly for marginalized student groups, and the implementation of new instructional materials.

The session began with a review of current instructional practices, emphasizing the importance of small group instruction in elementary education, which has seen a decline in secondary levels. The board acknowledged the need to enhance teacher training to integrate effective instructional strategies across all grade levels.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on proficiency data, particularly highlighting disparities among Black and Brown students. The board recognized these gaps as a pressing concern, asserting their responsibility to address these inequities. The latest data indicated a slight improvement in English Language Arts (ELA) readiness, with a 2.5% increase, and a 3.7% increase in math readiness. However, the overall trend remains concerning, prompting calls for urgent action.

The board outlined several initiatives aimed at closing achievement gaps, including targeted professional development for teachers, the adoption of a universal curriculum, and the integration of practice ACT opportunities into the high school experience. These efforts are designed to ensure that all students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, receive equitable access to high-quality education.

Concerns were raised regarding the effectiveness of current strategies, with board members expressing the need for more immediate and impactful changes. They emphasized the importance of tracking progress over time, particularly for subgroups that have historically underperformed. The board called for a more detailed analysis of trends in student performance over the past several years to better understand the effectiveness of implemented strategies.

In conclusion, while the meeting acknowledged some positive developments in student readiness and instructional practices, it also highlighted the urgent need for continued focus on equity and improvement in academic outcomes. The board committed to ongoing evaluation and adjustment of strategies to ensure that all students are adequately prepared for future success.