The column below reflects the views of the author, and these opinions are neither endorsed nor supported by WisOpinion.com.

The largest group of elected officials in the United States is not in Congress or the state capitol. They are school board members.

They make decisions that shape the future of millions of children.

Yet in Wisconsin, typically less than half of registered voters show up for Spring Elections.

That means a small group of voters is deciding who will lead our schools.

Most people do not realize what is at stake.

School board elections are some of the most important races on the ballot, yet they receive minimal attention. These elections determine who oversees our local schools and whether students are prepared for life after graduation.

At Kids Win Wisconsin, we focus on one of the clearest predictors of student success: whether a child can read proficiently in the early years. Reading is the foundation for everything. If students can read, they can learn anything that comes next.

Right now, too many cannot.

According to the Nation’s Report Card, only about one in three Wisconsin fourth graders can read proficiently. That means most students are not on track for college, a meaningful career, or a trade. When students fall behind in reading, the consequences follow them for life.

This is not inevitable. It is solvable.

Research shows that 95 percent of children can learn to read when schools use evidence-based instruction and strong systems. The difference comes down to leadership, expectations, and accountability.

School board members hire and hold the superintendent accountable. They approve the curriculum. They set the budget. Most importantly, they are responsible for whether students are learning to read, write, and do math proficiently.

Yet many voters are not sure what a school board does or what questions to ask. That uncertainty can lead to disengagement. Disengagement leads to low turnout. And low turnout leads to less accountability.

Candidate forums are already happening across Wisconsin. This is the moment to ask clear, direct questions:

How many students in your district are reading proficiently?
What is your plan to get to 95 percent proficiency?
How will you support teachers and students and hold schools accountable for results?

These are not complicated questions. But they are powerful ones.

Strong school boards lead to strong schools. Strong schools strengthen communities, attract families, and support long-term economic growth.

Wisconsin once led the nation in education. We can get there again. But we must start paying attention to the elections that shape our schools’ future.

Here is what you can do.

  • Go to www.MyVote.Wisconsin.gov to see what is on your ballot.
  • Know who is running.
  • Read where candidates stand on education.
  • Ask them clear questions about student outcomes.

Kids Win Wisconsin has created a simple voter guide with the key questions to ask school board candidates so you can understand who is prepared to lead.

Then vote.

These elections may not make headlines, but they shape the future of every child in your community.

Our kids are counting on us.

Brittany Kinser is the founding CEO of Kids Win Wisconsin.