Cooperative Educational Service Agencies (CESAs) were created by the Wisconsin legislature more than 50 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 Vision

To be a regional catalyst that enables our clients to create their future by taking action now.

Our Mission

To provide high quality, cost effective programs and services that are responsive to the dynamic needs of our members, clients, and the students they serve.

Why Work for CESA #1?

Why Do You Do What You Do?  -  This is a question we ask ourselves all the time.  Here are just a few of the reasons why our employees work for CESA #1.

• IMPACT: You’ll work on a team that builds the capacity of learners to grow, educators to teach, leaders to lead, and schools and districts to improve, all for the benefit of children.
• BALANCE: You’ll experience work/life balance from an employer that really cares.  For instance, our staff engage in a robust wellness program, which has won national awards from both the American Heart Association and Humana.
• GROWTH: You’ll continue your journey as a life-long learner through our comprehensive onboarding program, access to expert colleagues, and high-quality professional development.