Cooperative Educational Service Agencies (CESAs) were created by the Wisconsin legislature 60 years ago to serve as a link between school districts and between school districts and the state. There are twelve CESAs across the state.
Located in Southeastern Wisconsin, CESA 1 is governed by an 11 member Board of Control, comprised of elected school board members from the six county region. In addition, the Agency receives guidance from its Professional Advisory Committee, which is open to the superintendents from all 45 member districts.
The region served by CESA 1 is unique. It is home to both the largest and smallest districts in the state, as well as some of the most advantaged and disadvantaged students. It contains urban, suburban and rural districts, and some districts have broad diversity, while others do not. These differences require a philosophy and a team that are highly connected to the varying needs and people of the region, while keeping students and educators at the forefront of everything that the Agency does.
Our Mission
To provide high quality programs and services that are responsive to the dynamic needs of our stakeholders and the students they serve.
Our Vision
To be a catalyst that enables our stakeholders to create their future by taking action now.
Shared Purpose
To lead and support the development of learners who possess the essential skills necessary to be successful now and in the future.
CESA 1 Portrait of a Learner
Our Work
We offer more than 100 services that help education providers meet the diverse needs of their students. By remaining flexible and responsive, we have successfully served multiple clients with divergent and sometimes competing needs for almost 60 years.
As a cooperative, we leverage local, state, and national resources to support schools in providing quality learning opportunities for all students. As a regional leader in innovation and collaborative services in Southeastern Wisconsin, we mobilize the potential of school districts, educators, educational institutions, and business partners to face the challenges of a global economy and the need for world-class schools.