Until academic scores finally started to improve in 2023, our district’s performance was nothing short of disappointing — for over a decade. Let’s acknowledge the hard truths and commit to a path forward that prioritizes our children’s success.

Our schools have struggled for far too long in the past. Let’s review the facts: For over a decade, a staggering 68% of our children were not proficient in math, leaving them ill-equipped for future challenges and problem-solving. Equally alarming, 50% fell short in reading and writing proficiency, hindering their ability to communicate effectively.

Post-high school readiness plummeted by 20% between 2014 and 2019; a major issue that reflected systemic failures that eroded confidence in our schools.

The consequences were clear and devastating. WPSD lost over 33% of its enrollment—more than 900 students—between 2011 and 2021. Families fled to neighboring districts or private options, driven away by poor academic performance, the frustrating “Not-Yet” grading system that masked real deficiencies, and the ineffective Summit Learning platform.

Parents refused to settle for mediocrity, and who could blame them? Our children deserved better, but the union-driven agenda and complacent board allowed standards to slip, disregarding quality education.

But achievement is possible, and we’ve seen glimmers of it since 2023, with rising scores signaling a shift toward accountability. Now, as we approach this school board election, you can vote to accelerate academic progress or you can vote to repeat the lackluster performance under past board leadership.

I, Clayton Austin, stand for advancing academic achievements through rigorous, evidence-based curricula to ensure students master core skills.

I champion fiscal responsibility and accountability, demanding transparent budgeting and clear communications for taxpayers.

One of my priorities is expanding trades, college, career and choice programs, giving students diverse pathways to success, whether through vocational training, AP courses, or innovative electives tailored to individual aspirations.

As an innate protector, I absolutely prioritize the safety and security of our children and staff, implementing robust measures to create secure schools with more trained, qualified armed guards.

In protecting our girls, I am unwavering: keeping boys out of girls’ spaces and sports to ensure fairness, privacy, and equity in athletics and facilities so it does not become a WPSD issue.

Partnering with parents in their child’s education, empowering families through their child’s learning journey is vital.

Another crucial commitment is keeping the teachers’ union and their external agendas out of WPSD, focusing on what’s best for students rather than special interests.

Diplomacy and respect are at the core of my approach, fostering collaborative environments where differing views are heard without descending into division. Through strong stakeholder connections, we will bridge gaps between parents, educators, administrators, and the community to build a unified vision.

Let’s not slip back to being less than ordinary—a district mired in underperformance and declining trust. Instead, be part of something extraordinary: a WPSD that excels, innovates, and prepares every child for a bright future. Vote for me, Clayton Austin for school board, and let’s make excellence the new standard.