Today  the JS outlined the recent numbers for MPS.  While there were a few areas of hope, much of the news remains the same.  Students in MPS simply are not graduating prepared to meet the challenges of a diverse and ever-changing economy.

A quick overview of the numbers indicate that the high school graduation rate has actually increased since 2000, when only 51.8% of students graduated.  In 2007, that number increased to 68.6%.  For a school system that has seen its share of bad news, an almost 18% increase in graduation rates is tremendous.

However, as the JS points out, the underlying numbers are not as positive.  ACT score averages have actually dropped from 18.9 to 17.9.  Even worse, both numbers are well below the state-wide average of 22.5.  Proficiency levels in math and reading have in many cases decreased.  Daily attendance has dropped to an average of 78.7%.

These numbers indicate that while graduation numbers are improving, the students graduating in many cases are not prepared for college or the professional ranks.  The JS report supports this, noting that MPS graduates who enroll at UWM and MATC need remedial courses.  In fact, the exact number was 81% in ’03-’04.  While the ’07-’08 level decreased to 78%, it is nevertheless astounding to consider that over three-fourths of MPS graduates enrolled at UWM or MATC are considered unprepared and in need of remedial help.

These numbers highlight two important issues.  One is the need for an increase in “outside the box” thinking when it comes to MPS.  The article notes one of the few bright spots within MPS, that being the growth of Reagan High School.  Charter and choice schools offer a real alternative for parents and students looking for a way to improve a student’s chances of success.  In the process, the hope is not to destroy MPS but to encourage improvement and accountability within the system.

Second, the debate taking place regarding MPS highlights the need for increased cooperation and creative thinking regarding education policy at the state level.  This springs election for head of the Department of Public Instruction presents a perfect opportunity to focus on much needed reform.  Both Van Mobley and Rose Fernandez would offer real change at the state level.  Both have a unique background in education which could be used to implement innovative initiatives at the state level, initiatives which inevitably must start by addressing the failing MPS system.