Board approves virtual‑school services contract as district prepares new MPS Virtual program

The Milwaukee Board of School Directors approved professional services contracts on July 30 that include vendor support for the district’s virtual school. Board members debated timing and oversight before approving the package; administration said the virtual program already had roughly 750 enrolled students and that billing is tied to services delivered.

Quentin Klabon, an audience member, urged transparency on quality and usage, asking whether the program tracked live instruction, tutoring hours and the role of a parent learning coach. Procurement director Janine Adamczak said vendor invoices are “billed per rate as per services are delivered,” and that invoices are verified by the sponsoring department before payment.

Why it matters: The district is transitioning an existing virtual program into a stand‑alone school location for state reporting and accountability, and the board approved contracts so services can begin ahead of the school year. Several board members requested follow‑up committee review and student‑outcome reporting once the program is under way.

Board action: The board approved the professional services contracts as presented; the motion carried on a recorded roll call vote with all members voting Aye.

Oversight and questions: Superintendent Brenda Cassellius said she does not favor online schooling as a model compared with in‑person instruction but supported ensuring high quality programming for families who choose virtual options. Board members asked the administration to return to committees with program details, student supports and outcome metrics after the program starts.

Ending: The administration said it will monitor enrollment, verify vendor billing and return to the board’s appropriate committee with more detailed program and quality information.