Development News for Superior, Wisconsin

Operations Committee Reviews Facility Maintenance and Long-Range Plans

The Operations Committee addressed the annual appliance maintenance resolution (25-02) and the long-range facility plan. The appliance maintenance resolution pertains to testing of treatment ponds and ongoing preventative maintenance. A key issue highlighted was the need for certified operators, which had been a concern in recent years due to turnover. The long-range facility plan, presented for approval to allow utilization of Fund 46 dollars, details needs for each building, with older schools having more extensive lists. The total estimated cost for facility needs is $28.6 million. The current balance in Fund 46 is over $5.5 million, but significant upcoming expenses, like the middle school roof replacement at $5.6 million, are noted. The plan serves as a list of items eligible for Fund 46 money, ensuring proper funding allocation for facility maintenance and upgrades.

Board Approves Lunch Price Increase, Accepts Gifts, and Reviews Budget and Legislative Matters

The Budget and Insurance Committee presented several financial and operational updates. The committee approved an increased cost for all student and staff lunches, effective July 1, 2026, citing rising food costs and decreased enrollment leading to higher per-student expenses. The increase is 20 cents per lunch. The committee also approved the acceptance of gifts, grants, and bequests received in May 2026, noting significant donations to the all-night graduation party. A preliminary report on Fund 10 revenue and expenditure was provided, indicating $10.5 million in equalization aid expected, with $2 million deducted for open enrollment. Property tax revenue of $10 million is anticipated in August. Expenses are generally on track, and the district hopes to achieve a surplus for the year. The legislative committee expressed disappointment regarding the Senate's vote against directing state surplus funds to public schools and property tax relief.

Board Approves Policy Updates on Meeting Procedures, Virtual Participation, and Parent Engagement

The board approved several policy updates. Policy 0165.1 (Regular Meetings) was updated to merge content from policy 0164.1, becoming the single comprehensive policy for regular meetings. Policy 0164.1 was repurposed to govern virtual participation in board meetings, a policy previously missing and adopted by other districts. A new policy on parent and family engagement in Title One programs was introduced, outlining requirements for meaningful consultation and involvement of parents to improve academic quality and foster school-parent partnerships. All policy updates were presented as first readings and subsequently approved.

Annual Bullying and Harassment Report Shows Significant Incident Reduction

Kate Tesh, Director of Continuous Improvement and Assessment, presented the annual bullying and harassment report. Data is current as of the afternoon of the meeting, with hopes for no increase in the remaining school days. The report emphasizes the school's stance on bullying and harassment, focusing on teaching social-emotional skills and problem-solving strategies. Definitions from the code of conduct are included to clarify what constitutes bullying and harassment. Resources like PBIS, Second Step (K-8), and the Speak Out, Speak Up app are utilized. The report shows a significant reduction in bullying and harassment incidents compared to the previous year. Out of 34 incidents this year, 9 were unsubstantiated and 25 were substantiated, leading to consequences. The most common locations for incidents are hallways and classrooms, with a notable decline in classroom incidents. The reduction in incidents is attributed to continuous work in social-emotional learning from kindergarten, re-emphasis on PBIS, and improved communication with parents. Self-regulation strategies and conflict resolution support for adults are also highlighted as contributing factors.