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Below you'll find a list of all posts that have been categorized as “Transparency”

Transparency: Clear Communication Builds Trust

Madison Voters are Asking About...

Literacy must be Job #1, but there are many issues our community cares about. Below are a selection of the top issues I've been talking with our neighbors about on the campaign trail. Click READ MORE for details about each.

Don't see an issue you care about? ✉️ Email me.

1

Literacy Crisis

50% of Madison students aren't reading at grade level (75% Latino, 90% Black). I'll make reading proficiency Job #1 through dedicated reading blocks, high-dosage tutoring, evidence-based programs, early intervention, and clear accountability. Reading is the foundation for all learning.

2

School Safety

Safety starts with belonging. At Cherokee Heights, where I serve as the Parent-Faculty Organization President, we've seen behavior improve through trusted adult connections, clear expectations, and programs like the Reset & Return room. Let's continue to invest in training around restorative practices, and focus on literacy as it directly impacts student behavior.

3

Special Education

The $66.4M special education funding gap affects every student. I'll advocate for closing this gap while ensuring all students receive evidence-based reading instruction. Many learning challenges can be addressed with structured literacy approaches.

4

Advanced Learning

All students deserve instruction matching their needs. I support multiple pathways to challenge students, including both standalone and earned honors options. Strong literacy skills are the gateway to advanced learning opportunities.

5

Teacher Support

Teachers need freedom to teach, not paperwork. I'll advocate for competitive compensation, reduced administrative burdens, protected planning time, and meaningful professional development. When we trust teachers as professionals, students benefit.

6

Cell Phone Policy

I support consistent district-wide guidelines on cell phones. Cherokee's policy has improved focus and engagement. When students experience reading success, they naturally engage more with learning and less with devices.

7

Transparency

Families deserve clear information about student progress and district performance. I'll advocate for user-friendly data reporting, regular updates on initiatives, and meaningful community engagement in decision-making.

8

Arts and Enrichment

I strongly support arts education as complementary to literacy, not competing with it. Music helps students recognize patterns and rhythms that support reading. Arts provide both cognitive benefits and essential creative outlets that help students develop confidence and belonging.

9

Attendance

Students who can read at grade level attend school more regularly. I support addressing attendance issues immediately with same-day parent contact, removing barriers to attendance, and creating engaging learning environments worth attending.

10

Budget Priorities

I'll evaluate all programs based on reading outcomes. Early literacy intervention shows the highest ROI in education - $1 invested saves $7-12 later. We must prioritize classroom resources over administrative costs.

11

Mental Health

I support expanded mental health services, universal breakfast programs, and creating a sense of belonging for every student. Reading proficiency reduces academic frustration that often contributes to mental health challenges.

12

Family Engagement

Parents are essential partners in education. I'll advocate for clear communication about reading benchmarks, multiple ways for families to engage, multilingual outreach, and meaningful opportunities for parent input in district decisions. Strong school-home connections improve student outcomes.

Endorsed by Respected Community Leaders

I’m honored to have earned the trust and support of respected community leaders and organizations who share my vision for our future. These endorsements represent a diverse coalition of educational leaders, local officials, healthcare professionals, and community advocates who believe in my commitment to serving our school district.

Click Here to See endorsements

Copyright (C) 2025. Paid for by Friends of Bret Wagner, Melinda Birringer, Treasurer

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