Local School Policy Goal

Ensure 95% of Wisconsin Students Become Proficient Readers

Why It Matters

Only 1 in 3 Wisconsin fourth graders reads proficiently according to our Nation’s Report Card. Every student deserves the opportunity to become a strong reader, but that requires clear goals, honest information, and accountability.

Kids Win Wisconsin supports a transparent K–8 system that helps schools measure student progress, improve instruction, support students who need extra help, and keep families informed so every child has the opportunity to succeed.

How It Works Step-by-Step

Step 1: Measure Student Progress

Schools should use a nationally normed assessment, such as NWEA MAP Growth, in grades K–8.

Assess Students Three Times Each Year:

  • Beginning of the school year
  • Middle of the school year
  • End of the school year

Measure student progress in:

  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Math 

Step 2: Use Results to Take Action

Student data should be used to:

  • Identify students who need additional support early
  • Provide timely, targeted intervention.
  • Set clear goals for student growth and proficiency.
  • Improve classroom instruction.
  • Identify strengths and opportunities for improvement.
  • Make informed decisions about staffing, programs, and resources.
KWW_PolicyPage_Icons_Share Results

Step 3: Share Results

Student progress should be shared regularly in a clear and easy-to-understand way with:

  • Families
  • Teachers
  • Students

Student report cards should include objective measures of academic progress giving families a more complete picture of how their child is doing and whether they are on track.

Step 4: Recognize Excellent Teaching and Leadership

Great teachers and school leaders are essential to achieving and improving student outcomes. Schools should recognize, support, and retain educators who help students achieve strong academic growth.

Schools Should:

  • Recognize and celebrate high-performing teachers and school leaders.
  • Create leadership opportunities that allow outstanding teachers to remain in the classroom while sharing their expertise with others.
  • Learn from high-performing classrooms and schools by expanding effective instructional practices.
  • Explore performance-based compensation, including merit pay, to recognize and retain educators who consistently help students achieve strong results.

The Result

When schools measure progress, act on data, communicate honestly, and recognize excellence, everyone works toward the same goal:

Helping 95% of Wisconsin students become proficient readers so they can go to college, pursue a career, or master a trade and have a bright future.