Our agency’s work focuses on ensuring that every child has a high-quality education, and it is imperative that equity be our priority at the Department of Public Instruction (DPI). At DPI, educational equity means...
That every student has access to the educational resources and rigor they need at the right moment in their education, across race, gender, ethnicity, language, ability, sexual orientation, family background, and/or family income.
As the State Education Agency, our responsibility is to lead and model with one another, and reflect in our work, the principles of equity needed in Wisconsin schools. DPI employees must deepen their understanding of Wisconsin’s diverse student population and explore ways we can transform our daily work to promote genuine educational equity.
We’re focused on four priorities as part of our strategic plan:
- Innovative Education: Every learner is engaged, challenged, and seen.
- Educator Recruitment & Retention: Building and retaining strong, stable staff in every school and library.
- Mental Health: Support for students and staff, because learning can’t happen without wellness.
- A Modernized DPI: Clear, helpful and responsive in all we do.
Divisions and Programs
Our department is divided into five divisions, each focusing on programs that empower and uplift educators and librarians.
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Division for Learning Support (Division of Academics)
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The Division of Academics provides leadership, guidance, and support to ensure all students in Wisconsin engage in rigorous, equitable, and high-quality learning experiences. This division plays a central role in advancing statewide priorities in teaching, learning, and continuous school improvement. It works collaboratively with educators, school leaders, statewide partners, and district staff to strengthen instructional practices, build educator capacity, and improve student learning and achievement across all content areas.
- Division of Access and Opportunity
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The Division of Access and Opportunity is dedicated to ensuring that all students have equitable access to high-quality learning opportunities.
- Division of Government & Public Affairs
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The Division of Government and Public Affairs serves as the agency’s primary liaison to external partners, policymakers, and the public. This division plays a vital role in shaping and communicating education policy, advocating for public education, and building relationships that support the agency’s mission.
- Division of Management Services
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The Division of Management Services is responsible for overseeing the agency’s core operational and administrative functions. This division ensures DPI’s internal systems are efficient, transparent, and aligned with the agency’s strategic priorities. Through its leadership in finance, human resources, and technology, the division provides critical support that enables DPI staff and programs to serve Wisconsin’s schools, educators, and students effectively.
- Division for Libraries & Technology (Division of School & Library Operations)
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The Division of School and Library Operations is responsible for administering a wide range of operational programs and services that are foundational to the effective functioning of Wisconsin’s education system. From managing school funding and educator licensing to supporting nutrition programs, educational choice, and library services, the division ensures that schools, districts, and communities have access to the tools and resources they need to serve students effectively.