The future of the country depends on the younger generations. When children learn to read, write, and do mathematics, we can hope for a better future. But if children fall behind in academic education, it is alarming for our country.
I am shocked to learn that more than one-third of Wisconsin students in 4K through 3rd grade are reading below the grade level, according to new data from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. This means, more than 97,000 students in our state are reading below the grade level.
As a country, we want to be globally competitive in international trade. We want to ensure the highest level of national security. Both economic prosperity and national security depend on our younger generations receiving great education and excelling in reading, writing, and mathematics.
We can expect a productive workforce for all sectors of the economy only when we have an educated workforce.
For many years, there have been great concerns about American students falling behind in key areas of education. Many public schools across the country have faced sharp criticisms because of poor performance. Right here in Wisconsin, we also have many challenges in education.
For example, earlier this year, The Nation’s Report Card showed that most students in Milwaukee are not proficient in math or reading. According to the report, Milwaukee Public Schools had some of the worst scores in the country.
There are other schools across the state that also have significant issues that need to be addressed.
I am quite alarmed by this new report of Wisconsin’s students falling behind in reading. I believe that major changes in Wisconsin’s education sector are necessary to ensure a sound future for our state and country.