Wauwatosa strategic-plan update highlights 'power metrics' and disproportionate outcomes for students of color

The district presented year-one results of its three-year strategic plan and described a set of four "power metrics" intended as leading indicators: graduates meeting a 2.8 cumulative GPA with a minimum 21 ACT composite, 70% proficiency on the Wisconsin Forward assessment, 95% student attendance, and a 5% annual reduction in office disciplinary referrals (ODRs). The presenter said the district rose to 44% for the GPA/ACT target (up from the prior year) but has not yet met several goals and that disproportionality remains for students by socioeconomic status, disability and race.

Director Jennifer Foch framed the work around the district’s theory of action: "if adult practices improve, then student outcomes ultimately improve." Board members pressed for clearer disaggregation of ODRs (grade level, incident type and intersections with disability and socioeconomic status) and asked for specific, actionable follow-up. Administrators said some rise in ODRs is tied to classifications such as insubordination and that the district will prioritize culturally responsive practices, restorative approaches and stronger feedback loops for teachers.

Officials said they will provide additional school-level growth-plan updates in November and March and will supply more detailed ODR breakdowns to help target interventions.