Steve Esser

Key discussions during the meeting included staffing needs at the elementary school to address increased student behavior challenges, with administration exploring alternative placements and additional staff. The Jr/Sr High School Principal reported on FCCLA activities and noted staff training on restorative practices to address progressive discipline issues. The Superintendent provided updates on the spring school board elections, the planned sale of a district vehicle via closed bid due to repair costs, and presented initial concepts for a childcare center, advising a community survey for input. The board approved the final childcare center design, opting for a $2.9 million market issue financing option, and approved closing open enrollment for special education students due to staff capacity limits. They also approved the 2026-2027 District Calendar Option A and a memorandum of understanding with Bridging Brighter Smiles for the 2026-2027 school year. A new special education teacher position was approved for the elementary school. The board accepted a new hourly pay scale for bus drivers, effective for new hires, and hired several part-time and full-time staff members. Finally, contract roll-overs were approved for the superintendent, Jr/Sr High School Principal, and an administrator for the 2026-2028 school years.

Key discussions included a CESA report noting the Liftoffs program's pursuit of 501c3 non-profit status, which will be further reviewed in the January meeting. The Board approved trip requests for FCCLA students to attend a conference in Madison and for FFA students to attend the Half-Time Leadership Conference in Stevens Point. The Elementary Principal reported on STAR testing data successes, particularly within the LiftOffs pilot program, detailing changes in math instruction utilizing Kahn Academy. The Superintendent reported on recent donations, including monetary gifts and volunteer services for fence repair and vision screenings. A building/grounds update mentioned leasing a new skid steer and planning to purchase a small tractor. New business involved an update on the Childcare Center design, with final designs planned for bidding soon, and the approval to hire a stipend position for a childcare director consultant, as well as hiring a Student Council Advisor and a Childcare Consultant.

Key discussions focused on several administrative and new business items. The CESA Delegate reported on plans for the State Education Convention and provided an update on the CESA 4 LiftOffs pilot program involving AI instructional tools. Administrative reports highlighted Lincoln Elementary School receiving an 'Exceeds Expectations' rating for ten consecutive years, and details of recent Veterans Day activities. The Superintendent reported on the first grants issued by the Lincoln Educational Enrichment Fund (EEF) and provided an update on the forensic audit timeline. New business included revisions to the Childcare Center design to incorporate a staff bathroom, a squared-off exterior, and a meal prep nook, with staff lockers deferred for further discussion. The Board reviewed the potential purchase of 80 acres of land for future planning, with a request for information on the purchase process and a recommendation for the Building & Grounds Committee to meet. Reports on the 2024-2025 School Report Cards were presented, showing 'Exceeds Expectations' for the elementary school and 'Meets Expectations' for the Jr/Sr High School. Actions were taken to approve emergency response drill reports, announce the upcoming school board election filing deadlines, approve Neola Policy Updates 34.2, approve the resignation of an assistant Volleyball Coach, and approve the hiring of multiple staff members for Food Service, Paraprofessional, Bus Driver, and various Basketball Coaching positions. The session concluded with an executive session to discuss employment matters and confer with legal counsel regarding potential litigation.

The special meeting centered on the potential purchase of land near the Jr/Sr High School. Although the Building & Grounds Committee recommended making an offer on the 80 acres at $8,500 per acre, including contingencies such as a full appraisal, the board ultimately voted against making an offer. Financing options discussed included a loan from the State Trust Fund or private financing, with the possibility of leasing the land for farm use to offset costs. Funding could potentially come from Fund 46. The superintendent noted that public comment was allowed on the posted agenda topic.

This strategic plan outlines the long-term direction for the School District of Alma Center-Humbird-Merrillan. Its primary purpose is to ensure a safe learning environment, providing students with educational and growth activities designed to maximize their knowledge, skills, and abilities to their highest potential.