On the Road

On May 15, State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster attended A Celebration of Literacy at Monona Terrace in Madison. The event, sponsored by Wisconsin Literacy, also was attended by First Lady Jessica Doyle. Robert Wedgeworth, President and CEO of ProLiteracy Worldwide, spoke about the state of Literacy in America at the event, which was intended to honor learners, tutors, and advocates who have worked diligently to create a more literate Wisconsin.

That afternoon, she led a meeting of the International Education Council in Madison. Burmaster congratulated Council members on the completion of their two year terms, asked them to indicate their willingness to sign up for an additional term, and asked for recommendations for members to add to the council.

In the past two years, the International Education Council initiated the first International Education Summit; developed 26 international education recommendations for schools, teachers, teacher training, communities, businesses, and government agencies; initiated Study Wisconsin, a work group dedicated to attracting students from abroad to Wisconsin colleges and universities; participated in Wisconsin's International Inter-Agency work group; held numerous sessions on international education at national and statewide education conferences; and participated in creation of programs with educators in China, Thailand, Germany, France, Japan, Malawai, Russia, Argentina, and Peru. A copy of the International Education Recommendations is available on-line.

On May 16, the state superintendent joined school officials and Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce President James S. Haney on a tour of the Hartford Union High School technology and engineering department and Signicast Corporation (see separate story in this issue).

Burmaster attended the annual Milken Conference and awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. May 18-19 (See separate story in this issue).

On May 20, the state superintendent delivered the keynote address at the annual district conference of Rotary District 6250 in Delavan. The district draws from 62 Rotary Clubs with combined membership of 3500. Guests from Rotary International offices in Evanston, IL, also attended the luncheon. This year’s theme focused on children, literacy, and education.

“The men and women of the Rotary Club use their influence, creativity, and skill to better the lives of children and families,” Burmaster acknowledged. “Through my years as an educator, I had many students receive Rotary scholarships to study and travel, opportunities they almost certainly would not have had otherwise. I have seen the dedicated work of Rotary Clubs in supporting educators, students, and learning in our schools. So I begin today with a grateful heart to all of you for the work you do to improve the quality of life in our communities.”

Burmaster delivered official greetings on behalf of the UW System Board of Regents at UW-Stevens Point Spring Commencement ceremonies on May 21.

“You are Wisconsin’s most precious resource,” Burmaster told the graduates. “We are proud to entrust our future to your steady hand and careful watch. As well-educated graduates of the UW-Stevens Point, use your knowledge and understanding to make the thoughtful, critical decisions that will bring you personal respect, as well as bringing honor to your community, country, and our world. Do us proud, Class of 2006 graduates. We welcome you as full members of the unbroken tradition of excellence that makes Wisconsin great.”

Last updated on 5/22/2006