MILWAUKEE —  The U.S. Secretary of Education made his way around the Badger State this week, speaking with educators about many issues that impact students.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona visited Green Bay, Oneida, Mazomanie and Milwaukee as part of his nationwide "Back to School" tour.

“What is our 'why?' Strong community, strong families, strong children,” Cardona said. “That’s the 'why.' The 'what' is attendance, vaccinations, healthy children, healthy families, after school programs, academic enrichment, safe place to go after school.”

He was joined by White House Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Mandy Cohen and U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, D-Milwaukee. 

“We know kids carry more burdens on their back other than their backpacks,” Moore said.

Mental health was a big topic of conversation. Dr. Julie Schuller, president and CEO of the Sixteenth Street Community Health Center, said having counseling services inside of schools benefits students, parents and teachers. 

“The student doesn’t need leave school for an appointment,” Schuller said. “The parent doesn’t have to [pull the child out of school to take them]. The teachers are happy because the students are in the classroom learning. It’s been shown the more times kids can be in the classroom the better that they learn.”

She said 10 schools in the Milwaukee area utilize the center's services.

Cardona said students are six-times more likely to access mental health support in school than out in the community. 

“If a kid is missing school because they have an appointment,” Cardona said. “If a kid is missing school because they’re not well, they’re not going to access the learning they need or they’re not going to reach their potential.” 

Officials agreed that when students feel their best, they’re able to perform their best in school.  A goal Cardona has for students and schools all across the country.