LOYAL/GREENWOOD, WI (OnFocus) – The Greenwood and Loyal school boards are seeking input from their communities about a potential consolidation of the two school districts. At a recent joint board meeting, both boards decided to place a non-binding advisory question on the April 1, 2025 ballot, asking residents whether they support the consolidation of the districts.
In a letter addressed to families, District Administrators Joe Green (Greenwood) and Chris Lindner (Loyal) emphasized that the boards are committed to ensuring a sustainable future for their schools while continuing to provide safe and positive opportunities for students, maintaining high levels of learning, and working within budgets acceptable to their communities.
The Challenge Facing Rural Districts
Both districts are facing challenges common to small, rural schools: a slow decline in enrollment, increasing costs, and an outdated state funding formula that leaves over 80% of Wisconsin districts reliant on operational referendums to remain viable.
“Our boards are committed to finding ways to maximize opportunities for students while addressing these financial realities,” the letter stated.
Details on the Advisory Vote
The advisory vote will not determine the final decision on consolidation but will provide direction to the boards. If the community does not support consolidation, the districts will explore other avenues to achieve sustainability. If the vote is in favor, the boards will begin further exploration of consolidation, including a timeline for implementation.
Questions About Consolidation
The boards clarified that questions about facilities, mascots, locations, and colors will only be addressed after a consolidation decision is made. Historically, these discussions have been a roadblock, but if consolidation moves forward, a new consolidated board would be tasked with making decisions based on what is best for all students.
Potential savings from consolidation were also addressed. According to the boards, the majority of cost savings would come from personnel and facility efficiencies. Positions like District Administrators, which currently exist in both districts, could be consolidated into one role. The boards also noted that natural staff attrition, such as retirements, would help manage potential reductions over time.
Potential Timelines
If consolidation is approved, the earliest the districts could consolidate is the 2027–2028 school year. A more practical timeline might align with existing operational referendums, making 2028–2029 another viable option. The boards emphasized that no decisions will be rushed and that thorough planning will include discussions on referendums, election cycles, board seats, and preparation time.
Public Input Encouraged
The boards are urging community members to participate in the process by attending meetings and asking questions. The next joint meeting will take place on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Loyal High School Gymnasium, beginning with a public forum. This will provide an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions and learn more about the potential impacts of consolidation.
The outcome of the advisory vote will serve as a guide for both boards as they work to address the challenges of sustaining small, rural school districts while continuing to provide quality education for their students.
For more information, community members are encouraged to contact the school boards directly or attend upcoming meetings.
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Author: News Desk
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