Committee recommends non‑renewal for Milwaukee Environmental Sciences Academy; school faces closure if full board concurs

The Committee on Student Achievement and School Innovation voted to recommend non‑renewal of the non‑instrumentality charter contract for Milwaukee Environmental Sciences Academy (MESA), following a charter review and discussions about the school’s academic outcomes.

Bridget Schock Anderson summarized the charter review team’s October site visit and report, which commended MESA’s climate and programs (notably an environmental/gardening program and student engagement with expeditionary learning). However, the review team concluded academic performance lagged contract expectations and recommended a short renewal; after committee discussion, members declined to renew the non‑instrumentality contract.

Why it matters: Committee members said they found troubling academic indicators in the school’s metrics. Director Gokul Gandhi and others pointed to very low percentages of students meeting standards on state and district assessments and said that outcome could not be allowed to persist without more immediate corrective action. Several directors emphasized they value the school’s climate but said academic performance must improve faster.

Discussion and reaction: Supporters of MESA — including parents and students who spoke at the meeting — described the school as a "hidden gem" and highlighted student projects such as a community garden and national presentations. The charter review team and committee members nevertheless expressed concern that achievement measures were insufficient and that a different governance option could be considered.

Committee action and effect: Director Gokul Gandhi moved a motion to not approve renewal. Roll call: Director Ferguson — Aye; Director Gokul Gandhi — Aye; Director Leonard — Aye; Chair Simpson — Aye. The motion to not approve carried 4–0. Bridget Schock Anderson said that if the committee recommendation is affirmed by the full board, "the school would dissolve and close and that the contract would end in June 2025." The committee requested that administration engage families and provide guidance about alternative placement options if non‑renewal is finalized by the board.

Next steps: The committee’s recommendation will be forwarded to the full board. Administration said it would reach out to families with transition information and recommended follow‑up steps once the full board acts.

Ending: The committee emphasized the need to balance school climate and unique programming with clear, measurable academic progress; MESA faces contract termination if the full board endorses the committee decision.