From: Zombor, Missy Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2024 3:11 PM To: Perez, Jose; Dimitrijevic, Marina; Spiker, Scott; Bauman, Robert; Stamper II, Russell; Brostoff, Jonathan; Zamarripa, JoCasta; Jackson, DiAndre Cc: Elmer, Linda Subject: City Charter School Annual Report Concerns Dear Steering and Rules Committee Members: I'm reaching out regarding the Annual Reports for the City of Milwaukee Charter Schools. As the citywide Milwaukee Board of School Director, I make an effort to have a pulse on all schools in the city that impact Milwaukee Public Schools. In reviewing the attachments for tonight's Charter School Review Committee agenda, I noticed some themes in the family and student surveys that I hope are brought to your attention — especially the concern about teachers using physical force at Milwaukee Math and Science Academy and threats from teachers at Darrell Lynn Hines. I raise these concerns because from what I've seen in the past, if difficult questions are not asked, the CSRC can turn into more of a blind advocate for lackluster charter schools than a watchdog for students and champion for amazing educational opportunities. Here's a list of concerns that stood out from the surveys: Milwaukee Math and Science Academy - Families and students shared concerns about safety regarding weapons and inadequate responses to bullying. Students reported that teachers used physical force and made students uncomfortable. There are concerns about mold, poor food quality, inadequate heating, and inadequate recreation facilities. Milwaukee Academy of Science - Families and students report disrespectful behavior by staff, including racial slurs, unprofessional conduct, and lack of communication regarding incidents affecting students. Improving facilities, food quality, bathroom cleanliness, and increasing sports opportunities were themes. Downtown Montessori - Families and students raised concerns about the lack of a gym, lunch offerings, or transportation. They also mentioned poor bathroom facilities with broken toilets and unpleasant odors. How is the school is meeting physical education requirements without one? It may be time to expand City Ordinance "252-77 Outdoor Play Space for Elementary Schools" to include indoor gym facilities for all schools. You would have my strong support. Darrell Lynn Hines College Preparatory Academy of Excellence - Students report physical and verbal abuse, distrust towards teachers, concerns about safety, with some mentioning threats of violence, death threats, and even threats from teachers. The majority of students described the facilities as messy, smelly, and dirty. Central City Cyberschool - Students avoid using the bathrooms due to inadequate maintenance -- especially the girls' bathroom which was repeatedly mentioned as lacking essential supplies such as soap, tissue, and paper towels. Lack of transportation and extracurricular activities were reported by parents. School lunches were a common point of dissatisfaction. Removal of the morning CLC program is a concern among families with younger children that needed to arrive early. Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy - Families and students report concerns about the lack of extracurricular opportunities and sports, inconsistent staffing and bias among staff members, limited food variety. Issues were raised regarding bullying, theft, and harassment — with some feeling issues are not adequately addressed. Parents feel they do not get adequate updates on student progress or communication about classroom activities. Escuela Verde - There is a concern that the school is not adequately addressing the needs of its African American students, particularly regarding the lack of Black History Month observances. Some parents are dissatisfied with the school lunches. This school also lacks a gymnasium. Parents seem to be concerned that core subjects are not adequately covered. Concerns about bathroom conditions and cleanliness were also raised. Students requested more extracurricular activities. While I know there are bright spots to highlight at every school, I have no doubt you will hear about those. My hope is that these very serious concerns are not swept under the rug . Please reach out if you'd like to discuss ideas or solutions. There's been a large communication gap between the city and MPS. Let's find ways we can work together to find solutions that benefit Milwaukee's children. Sincerely, Missy Zombor Milwaukee Board of School Directors, At-Large zomborm@milwaukee.k12.wi.us 414-531-8085 P.S. Sometimes a surprise visit to a school is the best way to see what really happens inside.