On the Road

On November 8, State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster welcomed about 300 participants to the High School Summit in Madison. The summit was the culmination of a two-year effort to ensure every student leaves high school with the academic preparation and strong foundation needed to be successful in the 21st century in postsecondary education, the workplace, and citizenship.

Burmaster convened a statewide High School Task Force in February 2005 to ensure that Wisconsin high schools are actively pursuing innovation and working to meet the diverse educational needs of students. “Let us embrace the changes needed and continue our pursuit of excellence,” said Burmaster. “All our students deserve a high quality education and preparation for success.”

Seventy education advocates and leaders, including students, parents, teachers, and high school principals, along with business and community representatives from across the state, served on the task force. Listening sessions were held throughout the state, and a panel of 16 students addressed the task force. The task force was co-chaired by JoAnne Brandes, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel for JohnsonDiversey, Inc., and Ryan Champeau, Principal of Waukesha North High School. The group was charged with looking at national models and various local initiatives aimed at redesigning the high school experience, enhancing student learning and engagement, and strengthening the alignment of high school with postsecondary education and workforce needs.

“The economic future of our state rests on our high school students earning diplomas that ensure they are ready for the workplace, college, and citizenship,” Burmaster told the group. “A high school diploma that has meaning for today requires our united efforts to increase rigor and actively engage all students in learning.”

On November 9-10, Burmaster attended the UW Board of Regents meeting in Madison. The state superintendent is a member of the Regent’s Executive Committee and the Business, Finance, and Audit Committee.

Last updated on 11/13/2006