MADISON, Wis. — An independent audit has revealed significant challenges within the Milwaukee public school district, specifically highlighting a “culture resistant to change” that has hindered its operations and disproportionately affected its most vulnerable students. This evaluation was commissioned by Democratic Governor Tony Evers, who has a background as Wisconsin’s superintendent of schools. The audit was prompted last year when it became apparent that the district had neglected to submit essential financial reports to the state. This oversight ultimately led to the resignation of the superintendent and the state withholding funds.
According to the audit, the Milwaukee school district, which serves over 66,000 students and is the largest in Wisconsin, needs to implement comprehensive changes to enhance its transparency towards parents and taxpayers. The report from MGT of America Consulting stressed the necessity for “systemic changes” that will center student needs in decision-making processes, particularly focusing on those who are most at risk. It emphasized that the ultimate goal of these changes is to provide equitable and high-quality education that will pave the way for future student success.
The auditors pointed out several pivotal problems, including a high turnover rate among leadership and staff, disconnected planning efforts, outdated operational systems, and ineffective reporting protocols. These factors have resulted in fragmented operations and inefficient practices across the district. In light of these findings, Governor Evers has urged the district to promptly embrace the audit’s 29 recommendations.
“This audit is a critical next step for getting MPS back on track and, ultimately, improving outcomes for our kids,” Evers stated, emphasizing the importance of the audit’s findings. The school district responded by indicating that the audit will guide its future improvement efforts. They acknowledged the necessity of focused support while viewing the report as an opportunity to capitalize on existing momentum for betterment.
The timing of this audit report coincided with the Milwaukee school district’s announcement regarding the hiring of Brenda Cassellius, the former superintendent of Boston Public Schools, as its new leader. Additionally, it arrives in the context of an upcoming race for state superintendent of schools, where performance metrics for schools and students are pivotal issues.
To support the auditing process, Governor Evers has allocated $5.5 million in public funds for two audits. The first audit consumed $2.5 million, while the remaining $3 million is earmarked to assist the district in implementing the recommended changes. Furthermore, the Governor has proposed an additional $5 million to address future audit findings, including another audit related to instructional quality that is still pending. Evers indicated that these funds will only be provided if the state sees tangible progress from the district.
