Evers’ MPS Audit details "Inefficiencies", "Outdated Systems", and More

MPS Audit Confirms Dysfunction

The first of Gov. Tony Evers’ ordered audits of Milwaukee Public Schools paints a picture of almost total dysfunction in the school district’s central office.

“The Operational Review identified critical issues stemming from leadership and staff turnover, fragmented planning, outdated systems, and unproductive reporting protocols, which have led to siloed operations and inefficient practices. These challenges, compounded by a culture resistant to change, strained governance relationships, and inconsistent data practices, undermine the District’s ability to function effectively and achieve its goals,” the report from the auditors stated in its opening.

It goes on to detail a school district where leadership changes often, there is a “culture of fear,” and a history of “financial mismanagement.”

“[A] lack of honesty and transparency, and ineffective public communications have contributed to a lack of public trust,” the report notes.

Gov. Evers ordered the audit of MPS’ central office after last year’s revelation that Milwaukee Public Schools were a year late in turning-in the districts required financial report and budget audit.

Those reports have yet to be turned-in to the state.

The audit suggests 29 different recommendations, including a new strategic plan that links MPS’ goals to student performance, overhauling the district’s Office of Human Resources, and completely restructuring the central office.

“The unclear reporting lines and siloed departmental structure within MPS’ Central Office significantly hinder the District’s ability to drive student success,” the auditors wrote. “The complexity of the District’s organizational chart creates barriers to efficiency and progress, which inhibits its ability to create the conditions for schools to thrive in meeting student needs.”

Gov. Evers said the audit will be useful in “identifying the areas” where MPS can improve.

“This audit is a critical next step for getting MPS back on track and, ultimately, improving outcomes for our kids, so I urge and expect the district to take these recommendations seriously and move forward quickly with implementing this audit’s findings,” the governor added.

Milwaukee Public Schools also tried to frame the audit as a positive.

“The independent operational audit of Milwaukee Public Schools validates the progress we are making while also serving as a guide for continued improvements. It highlights the strength of our existing systems and the dedication behind key initiatives, reinforcing the steps we have taken to move our students forward. At the same time, it identifies areas for growth, reaffirming our commitment to continuous improvement,” the district said in a statement. “While acknowledging the need for focused support, the report makes clear that we have an opportunity to build on this momentum, strengthening our schools and communities while creating a more unified path forward.”

Only Wisconsin state superintendent candidate Brittnay Kinser called the audit “blistering.”

“I applaud Governor Evers for taking swift action to order this audit which Superintendent Underly should have done months ago. With the achievement gap growing annually in Wisconsin and only five percent of Black students proficient in reading, a plan to fix MPS’s institutional failures is long overdue,” Kinser said in a statement. ‘Our kids deserve SO MUCH better, and we need strong leadership at the helm of DPI to ensure that children are at the center of every decision, and to steer MPS as they implement these critical recommendations.”