A number of factors contributing to the increase
(Menominee Indian School District (MISD) has seen a steady increase in student enrollment during the past five years. “Our total enrollment this school year is 917, which includes Head Start, Keshena Primary School, Menominee Indian Middle School and Menominee Indian High School,” stated MISD Superintendent Wendell Waukau. “Five years ago, in 2014, our total enrollment was 815.” While enrollment fluctuates year over year, the long-term trend is positive for the district. “We have seen gains in our Head Start enrollment and at the Middle and High Schools,” added Waukau. “Our Primary School enrollment has remained fairly steady.” The district is attributing the increase to a number of factors. “Open enrollment certainly helps, but it is not a major factor,” explained MISD School Board President David “Jonesy” Miller. “Parents and students have told us they like our smaller class sizes, advanced learning opportunities and a wide range of extracurricular activities including music, arts and athletics, as well as incorporating Menominee language and culture into our educational approach.” Waukau also credits community engagement as a reason for the increase. “We have worked very hard in recent years to truly engage and listen to the community,” he said. “We have been very open about our challenges and have made sure to celebrate our successes. People respect that and see we are working hard to ensure all of our students succeed.”
