Lauri Asbury

The committee meeting included an opening segment confirming virtual access information and calling the meeting to order. During the communication section, a presentation was given regarding the bid package results for the Neenah Middle School roof replacement project. There were no community members who addressed the committee during the open forum.

The meeting included an open forum where community members discussed budget issues related to staffing. The District Administrator provided updates recognizing National School Social Work Week, congratulating the Neenah High School Fishing Team for their 2025 Team of the Year award, and celebrating the achievements of three state champion wrestlers, including one who finished the season undefeated. The Administrator also highlighted an upcoming performance of The SpongeBob Musical and recognized a high school musician who earned the honor to perform with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Official action items scheduled for discussion included the Budget Framework for Capital Projects, a Resolution on Tax Levy Transparency on Tax Bills, and the Approval of Technology Leases.

The meeting included reports on successful winter sports seasons, including championship wins for the high school boys hockey team and the girls wrestling team, and recognition for the female wrestler of the year. The District Administrator also reported on cultural engagement activities, such as performances by the Afro Infusion Dance group, and expressed gratitude to school bus drivers and crossing guards during their respective appreciation weeks, including the reading of proclamations. During the consent agenda, the Board reviewed multiple policy changes, specifically discussing and modifying Policy 5136 regarding student use of personal communication devices on buses and approving Policy 7540.08 concerning Artificial Intelligence (AI) while excluding the enforcement paragraph. Communications included an informational update on the Paid Time Off (PTO) proposal supported by certified staff, the first reading of a proposed resolution for Tax Levy Transparency on tax bills, and an overview of monthly financial and property tax collection reports. The Board subsequently entered closed session to discuss the renewal or nonrenewal of certified staff member contracts.

This updated plan for the Neenah Joint School District outlines a comprehensive, data-driven approach to attendance improvement. The three-year goal (2025-2028) is to reduce district chronic absenteeism by 10%, close achievement gaps, and maintain pre-COVID attendance rates for non-economically disadvantaged students. Key strategies include systematic, equity-focused attendance interventions, fostering positive school climates through a multi-tiered support framework (universal prevention, targeted early intervention, intensive support), and engaging families and community partners. The plan is built on core beliefs emphasizing relationships, shared responsibility, early intervention, cultural responsiveness, and data-driven decisions.

The meeting commenced with an open forum where a community member addressed special education updates. Reports included student representative updates and a detailed address from the District Administrator acknowledging Black History Month, National School Counseling Week, celebrating the success of two high school seniors in the VEX World Robotics Championship, and sharing positive experiences from recent student events such as the wax museum, Cozy Up and Read, and the All Strings Festival. The consent agenda approved the retirement of two certified staff members. Official action resulted in the Board approving the 2026 summer school proposal. Communications included a recap of the State Education Convention, focusing on tax levy transparency, improving literacy initiatives, and student belonging metrics, alongside an update on the Special Education Program and non-certified staff employment.