Stanford Taylor welcomes students back to school

MADISON — State Superintendent Carolyn Stanford Taylor welcomed students back to school today.

She began the day participating in Milwaukee Public Schools' annual welcoming event to kick off the new school year, along with Gov. Tony Evers, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Keith Posley, and other educators, parents, and community leaders.

"The excitement this time of year is palpable," Stanford Taylor said. "We see students, educators, and families all greeting the challenge and great potential of a new year of learning. To every student and educator, this is my challenge — push yourself this year to learn new things, try new activities. Keep on picturing this coming June when we look back and marvel at the new mountains you've climbed."

Stanford Taylor told students it's important to find a place in the community at their schools.

"School is your route to the future you want," she said. "Whoever you are as a learner and whatever needs you have, know that educators are there in your school to help you meet those needs. Take time to build strong, meaningful connections with educators who help you tap your own potential."

The vast majority of elementary, middle, and high school students in Wisconsin begin each school year on the Tuesday following Labor Day. During the 2018-19 school year, 858,833 students attended public schools in Wisconsin. An official count is tabulated annually by the Department of Public Instruction based on reported enrollments on the third Friday in September, or Sept. 20 for the 2019-20 school year.