Harnessing Data to Drive Impact and Transform Education

This year, we’re celebrating the power of data-driven insights to illuminate challenges and drive change!

At Milwaukee Succeeds, our commitment to data is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that effective decision-making relies on a solid foundation of community data, enabling us to identify needs, drive strategies and effectively measure our impact.

In 2024, we harnessed the power of data as a flashlight, highlighting critical issues within the early childhood education (ECE) sector, assessing the barriers to high school success, analyzing the effectiveness of Wisconsin Shares and so much more!

Armed with these insights, we’re ready to advocate for the changes and supports that will empower our students to thrive. Together, we can build a brighter future for families across Milwaukee!

Building Foundations

Despite its critical importance, ECE is still underfunded. Our report, Building Foundations, examines the burden faced by providers and families – and the incredible need for change.

For instance, the cost of ECE for one child is over ⅓ of the median household income and twice the cost of in-state tuition. Meanwhile, educators still earn a meager $13/hour.

Wisconsin Shares

Unlocking Wisconsin Shares highlights the pivotal role of the child care subsidy program, which helps many parents pursue education, find employment and attain financial stability.

Yet many still face barriers – like income thresholds, a lack of awareness and a complex application processes – that prevent broader participation.

Reimagining Success

In 2024, we took a holistic approach to measuring student success. Our new report, Reimagining High School Success, found that over half of our high schoolers are experiencing significant anxiety.

They also want more from their education, expressing a desire to learn practical life skills that will set them up for long-term success.