In a move that has ignited local controversy, the Wauwatosa School District (WSD) announced plans to close its STEM-specific programs, including the highly ranked Wauwatosa STEM School, which is currently ranked third among elementary schools in Wisconsin by U.S. News & World Report. The decision, which was discussed at an October 14 board meeting, is part of a broader effort to address what the district describes as a lack of diversity in certain educational programs. However, the decision has drawn sharp criticism from parents and prompted the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL) to threaten legal action.
The Wauwatosa STEM School, known for its rigorous curriculum and strong student outcomes, serves as a cornerstone of the district’s educational offerings. The school is lauded for providing advanced learning opportunities to elementary students, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The closure plan has left many parents concerned that it will limit students’ access to high-quality education and hinder future opportunities in STEM fields.
The district’s task force, formed to review and address perceived “challenges” in the education system, pointed to the racial makeup of the STEM programs as not reflecting the broader district demographics. According to district officials, this discrepancy raises concerns about inclusivity and equitable access to educational resources. The task force’s recommendations, which include closing or reshaping STEM programs to achieve a more balanced racial representation, are part of a broader strategy to address diversity across the district.
WILL argues that the district’s plan amounts to unconstitutional racial balancing, potentially violating federal laws that prohibit race-based adjustments in educational opportunities. “The focus should be on providing the best education for all students, regardless of race,” said WILL’s Deputy Counsel, Dan Lennington. He added, “Shutting down successful programs simply because they don’t align with certain racial metrics is both illegal and unjust. Tosa should abandon this plan or face serious legal consequences.”
In a written statement, Wauwatosa School District officials responded to the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty (WILL), stating, “We have received WILL’s letter, but we believe its allegations lack legal merit. The claims presented are based on inaccurate information and false assumptions.”
Parents and community leaders have voiced concerns at recent board meetings, with many arguing that the closure of the STEM school will do more harm than good, affecting not just current students but also the district’s overall academic reputation.
Adding to the controversy is the potential loss of federal funding. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ensures that schools receiving federal funds must provide equal educational opportunities, regardless of race. By pursuing changes that specifically target racial demographics, WSD could jeopardize millions of dollars in federal support. Legal experts warn that this could have far-reaching consequences for the district, potentially affecting not only STEM programs but also other aspects of the educational budget.
WILL has made it clear that it is prepared to file a civil action against the district, its administrators, and board members if the plan moves forward. “We are committed to defending the constitutional rights of parents and students,” Lennington emphasized. “Students deserve access to the best programs available, and these decisions should be based on merit and interest, not race.”
Parents and local activists have called on the WSD Board of Education to reconsider the plan. A public hearing is expected soon, providing community members with the opportunity to voice their concerns and seek answers from district officials. In the meantime, the future of Wauwatosa’s STEM programs hangs in the balance, with legal battles likely if the board proceeds as planned.