In a recent government meeting, a former member of the Whitewater School Board highlighted alarming trends in educational outcomes in Whitewater, Wisconsin, attributing the decline to a significant increase in non-English speaking students. The speaker, who has deep ties to the community, reported that Whitewater has experienced the largest drop in academic achievement among larger districts in the state over the past four years, now ranking in the bottom 5% of all districts.

The speaker pointed to three primary factors affecting academic performance: special needs students, economically disadvantaged students, and English learners (ESL). While the proportions of special needs and economically disadvantaged students have remained relatively stable, the number of English learners has surged by 50% in just two years, from 236 in 2021 to 352 last year. This influx, particularly of migrant children, has strained district resources and negatively impacted overall test scores.

At Lincoln Elementary, for instance, over a quarter of students are classified as ESL, leading to concerning outcomes where 80% of fifth graders tested below grade level in English. The district has allocated significant funds—over $100,000—to support these students, but this has come at the expense of other educational resources, including teacher-student ratios for non-ESL students.

The speaker also noted a troubling trend of families opting to enroll their children in neighboring districts, exacerbating the financial strain on Whitewater schools. This year alone, more than 200 students, representing over 10% of the district's enrollment, have left for schools with better academic performance and fewer English learners. This exodus is costing the district nearly $2 million annually in lost revenue.

Drawing parallels with the neighboring Delavan district, which has faced similar challenges for decades, the speaker warned that Whitewater could be on a similar trajectory, with increasing numbers of parents seeking alternatives for their children’s education.

In closing, the speaker urged for immediate action to address the educational crisis, expressing frustration over the perception that concerns about educational quality are rooted in prejudice. The meeting underscored the urgent need for solutions to support both the growing population of English learners and the overall academic integrity of Whitewater schools.