Entering the 2026–27 School Year: Where Strong Start Stands

As we begin the 2026–27 school year, Strong Start's work now reaches 8 elementary schools and more than 867 students across Wisconsin — spanning urban, suburban, and rural communities. What began as a single-school pilot has grown into a multi-district partnership, and we're seeing that growth translate into real classroom change: educators report stronger classroom culture, more consistent student engagement, and a shared language around focus, belonging, and readiness.

This year also brings a significant milestone. Our UNYTUS curriculum has been independently evaluated and recognized for ESSA Tier IV evidence alignment by the Wisconsin Center for Education Research at UW–Madison, following an evaluation period completed in September 2025. This recognition confirms what partner schools have told us directly: when readiness foundations are built early and intentionally, students are better prepared to learn, connect, and grow as expectations increase throughout their education.

Our program remains aligned to Wisconsin Career Readiness Standards, ASCA Mindsets and Behaviors, and the 11 Principles of Character Education — integrating ELA, Social Studies, and STEM so that life and career readiness skills are taught alongside academics, not apart from them.

As we look ahead to the rest of this school year, we're focused on deepening these partnerships and welcoming new districts who are ready to invest in readiness early. If your school or district is interested in learning more, we'd love to start a conversation.