School Board Implements Personal Support Plans to Address Student Achievement Gaps

The West Allis-West Milwaukee School District Board meeting on July 28, 2025, focused on significant educational strategies aimed at improving student achievement across various demographics. Central to the discussion was the introduction of a core resource for secondary education, targeting grades 6 through 11, which emphasizes research-based instruction, coaching, and professional development.

The meeting highlighted recent data showing positive trends in student proficiency, particularly among Black students, who saw a 5% increase, and special education and multilingual students, who experienced a 12% rise in proficiency. However, the data also revealed persistent achievement gaps, particularly in math at the secondary level, indicating a need for targeted interventions.

Key initiatives discussed included the implementation of personal support plans for students, which aim to provide tailored assistance in literacy and math. Currently, 54% of K-3 students have such plans, and the district plans to expand this approach to fourth and fifth graders. The board emphasized the importance of strong universal instruction and the need for all educators to be aligned in their teaching methods.

The meeting also introduced the concept of “win time,” a dedicated period for both academic support and enrichment, designed to address the diverse needs of students. This initiative aims to ensure that all students, regardless of their proficiency levels, receive the necessary support to advance their learning.

Board members expressed pride in the growth shown in recent test scores while acknowledging the ongoing challenges. They discussed the importance of using data effectively to identify student needs and track progress, particularly for new students entering the district mid-year.

In conclusion, the board’s commitment to continuous improvement and targeted support strategies reflects a proactive approach to enhancing educational outcomes for all students in the district. The next update on student achievement data is expected in November, coinciding with the release of the Wisconsin state report cards.