All children deserve the opportunity to learn
All children deserve the opportunity to learn — in Wisconsin, in the Midwest, in the United States. That opportunity is the keystone of an education that is the groundwork for the individual success, strong communities, and a prosperous economy. The Wisconsin Opportunity to Learn Campaign (OTL)— in partnership with the Schott Foundation for Public Education — links local, state and national efforts to build commuity support around all children's right to quality public education.
What exactly does this mean?
The OTL campaign is focused on five core resources that guarantee students the opportunity-to-learn:
- High-quality early childhood education — Research proves the clear benefits to students, communities, and society when we provide high-quality pre-school programs to all children, regardless of race, geography, or family income.
- Highly prepared, effective and supported teachers —Studies show that access to a highly effective teacher — one who has strong content, professional expertise, and classroom experience— has a tremendous impact on student achievement and outcomes.
- Solid and challenging curriculum— Every school, regardless of zip code or the socio-economic status of its students, must have an integrated, balanced, relevant, and rigorous curriculum that builds functional skills for the 21st century.
- Equitable instructional resources— Students flourish when they have access to the latest books, technology, research, and learning tools. Therefore, it is vital that all classrooms are equipped with the instructional resources that key to better teaching and learning.
- Expanded learning options — By creating permanent community partnerships and learning options, schools can provide the highest quality public education for all students.
Getting involved in Opportunity to Learn Wisconsin campaign is easy:
1. Sign up for the e-newsletter: The OTL newsletter can keep you up-to-date on education policy issues and organizing efforts here and around the country. Sign up now.
2. Like us on Facebook: Stay current by reading our posts and join in the conversation.
3. Request a speaker: If you’re part of a group that would be interested in learning more about these issues, just give us a call at 414-967-1682 or email us at iwf@wisconsinsfuture.org. We do presentations for all kinds of groups—civic and faith-based, unions, professional, business and parent groups, etc.
4. Sign up for action alerts: We can let you know via email about public events, legislative actions and opportunities to reach out to your elected representatives to let your opinion be known.
5. Organizing in your community: Our staff can help you organize others on the ground in your own community. We can show you how to reach out to important constituent groups, organize meetings and presentations and give you materials to assist in your organizing. Contact us at: iwf@wisconsinsfuture.org.