Hi, I'm Bret.
Bret Wagner
A Fitchburg Dad on a Mission for Our Kids
I'm an engineer, former teacher, and father of two MMSD students who believes in the power of public education to transform lives.
My Story
- Grew up in public schools in Fort Atkinson
- Graduated UW-Madison (Chemical Engineering, 2003)
- Taught high school science where the student population was 99% minority, 93% economically disadvantaged. I know what works in the classroom.
- Junior Achievement board member and classroom volunteer.
- Engineer leading complex business transformations in healthcare.
- Cherokee Heights PFO President seeing results when school leaders get basics right.
Why I'm Running
Our schools work best when every student becomes a proficient reader, when teachers have the support to teach literacy effectively, and when we use proven reading science to guide instruction. That's why I'm running for school board - because ensuring every child reads at grade level matters for every kid in Madison. Reading isn't just another subject; it's the foundation for all learning and future success.
Quick Facts
- Father of two MMSD students. I’m deeply invested in our public schools' success.
- The only Fitchburg Candidate, and would be the first Fitchburg resident on the board in 10+ years.
- Confirmation Guide at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
My Experience as a High School Science Teacher
Chavez High School, Houston ISD
I know what works in the classroom. I also know how hard this work is.
The student population was 99% minority, 93% economically disadvantaged. That is important context. I had to come to grips with my white privilege, and realize that these kids were already starting behind in the race.
At the same time, I maintained high expectations for every student, offered tutoring after school, provided frequent teacher feedback, used data to inform my instruction, and worked with experienced teachers to develop engaging, differentiated lessons.
It worked. My student's pass rates on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills exam doubled.
Click the Play Button below for a blast from the past. Literally! Sorry no sound though... this was before the age of smartphones.
