Board of Education meeting 4/27/26

001[music] >> That's available to read, so >> Excellent. Follow along and Have you two stand over here so that the camera can get you? They don't want to see my bald spot. Come on now, that's the best feature. Don't worry about it. I have a face made for radio. Okay. Okay. Please raise your right hand. Uh repeat after me, I state your name. I Lee Tramel Motor who has been duly elected who has been duly elected >> Fond du Lac School District Board Board of Education to the Fond du Lac School District Board >> District Board of Education Education, no worries. but has not yet entered upon the duties thereof but it has not yet entered upon the duties thereof swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of

002Wisconsin swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of Wisconsin and will faithfully discharge the duties of said office to the best of my ability and will faithfully discharge the duties of said office to the best of my ability so help me God All right. Let me tell you. Thank you. You're safe. Thank you. Nice job. Thank [applause] you. Here you go, sir. Okay. Thank you. Okay. I would like to call to order the regular meeting of the Board of Education at 5:00. Can we please have the roll, Mrs. Main? Frame Here. Godfrey Here. Henchel Here. Lawrence Here. Main, here. Tramel Here. Motor, here. We have a quorum. All members are present. Uh just a note to the audience, uh prior to the Pledge of Allegiance, you'll notice that

003we are sharing a BoardDocs, uh which is the way that we typically share our information in board meetings, is down nationwide today. And so, um thank you to Helly for getting us up, set, and going. If you want to access any of the information, it is on our website, so you can see anything right there, but that's just so you're aware of that. So, next, we will be taking a moment of reflection preceding the Pledge of Allegiance, which is going to be led by Waters Elementary Student Council. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Well, welcome, Waters students and staff. Thanks for coming in this evening. >> Thank you so much

004for having us. I am Kelly Sarah, proud principal of Waters, and I'm going to turn it over to our two student council advisers, Miss Sydney Freeze and Miss Kathy Torgerson, and they will introduce our student council, and they have prepared a little presentation for you, and have a few words to share with you this evening. Thank you. Good evening. Um my name is Sydney Freeze, and I'm here with Kathy Torgerson. Um full disclosure, we made them a script, and they went and made their own script, so [laughter] that is how responsible these kids are. Um it's really our privilege to work with these kids. This is their second year being in student council, and we're just so proud of them. And standing here with us are our fourth and fifth grade student council members. Um

005these students were selected as leaders within our school, and they have taken responsibility very seriously this this year. They have consistently demonstrated leadership, kindness, and a strong commitment to serving others. And at this time, I'm going to turn it over to our student council members so they can share some of the projects that they've led this year. Hi, I'm Ellie, and I'm the I'm the president of Waters Student Council. I'm Ty, and I'm the vice president of Waters Student Council. I'm Kinsley, and I'm the secretary of Waters Student Council. I'm Laura, and I'm the spirit leader of Waters Student Council. I'm Jovi, I'm the historian of Waters Student Council. And I'm Hope, and I'm the treasurer of the Waters Student Council. At Waters, we believe it is important to help our community as well as

006do some fun stuff for the school. We did a school-wide penny drive to raise money to pay for the bus transportation for school field trip to the Appleton PAC. We went to Target to shop for Christmas gifts for families in the Fond du Lac that are in need. We did Christmas and Halloween spirit weeks to celebrate the holidays. We also put together and sold Valentine's for students at Waters to give to their friends. We also did a school-wide Thanksgiving food drive to collect and then donate food for the Fond du Lac Food Pantry. Over 2,500 items were donated. We did a spring coloring contest so students could show their artistic abilities. We volunteered at Loaves and Fishes where we packaged food for people who were in need. We love being part of the student council

007at Waters. I like to be a leader and represent our school. I like I like helping to make the school better. I like being able to lead things and be a part of what is happening in school. I like to organize activities that are fun for our school. I like helping people in need. I like making people's lives better. That was outstanding. [cheering] >> [applause] >> You've done a lot of work, Waters. Nice job. You've done a lot of things for our community as well as your school. That's great. Do you want to hear something really interesting? Your both of your student council advisers were students when I was a teacher. Which makes me very old. And of myself, yes. [laughter] No, oh, well. >> [laughter] >> No. No, I was their teacher. >> I

008have a quick question. Who is the um spirit Is it Lauren or Is there a Laura? Laura, what is your job What is your job doing things for for spirit? Or does a friend want to tell you? Is it setting up fun activities? Like we do spirit weeks to set up for the holidays and stuff. Wonderful. What is your favorite spirit day? Um twin day. Toy day? Oh, twin. What excellent. Thank you. Thanks for coming today. Thank you uh Mrs. Sarah and your team. >> [applause] [laughter] >> Um [snorts] we will be moving to uh the election of officers. Uh this is a common exception to Robert's Rules requiring a motion prior to discussion. So the board may vote by secret ballot for each position before making an official motion. President is Katie Motor. Vice

009President is Luke Frame. Clerk is Karen Main. And Treasurer is Mark Henschel. Thank you. Uh if we could have a motion. Move the Board of Education duly elect the following officers for the '26-'27 term: President Katie Motor, Vice President Luke Frame, Clerk Karen Main, Treasurer Mark Henschel. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Henschel and a second by Mr. Godfrey that the um and you would just stated that. Can we have the roll, please? Frame? Yes. Godfrey? Yes. Henschel? Yes. Laurence? >> Yes. Main, yes. Trannel? Yes. Motor? Yes, motion carries 7-0. Uh we have an announcement of a workshop in executive session that will be following the regular meeting to discuss policy, the workshop to discuss policy update 35-1, and an executive session to discuss school consolidation, staffing, and wage negotiations as provided by Wisconsin

010Statutes 19.851 C and E. Moving forward to public comment. It is now time for the first public comment section. The public may approach the board to make a presentation no longer than 5 minutes per person and 10 minutes per topic. These persons exceeding these time limits shall be interrupted as deemed necessary by the presiding officer. Members of the board and administration will not respond or further discuss items from public comment at this meeting to remain in compliance with state statutes chapter 19 subchapter 5 open meetings of governmental bodies and the public notice requirements. I'm referencing policy 0167.3 public comment at board meetings. I want to remind participants that the presiding officer is guided by the following rules. Letter F, all statements shall be directed to the presiding officer. No person may address or question board

011members individually. Letter G, the presiding officer will interrupt, warn, or terminate if the participant's statement is too lengthy, personally directed, abusive, obscene, or irrelevant. The presiding officer will request any individual to leave the meeting when that person does not observe reasonable decorum. The presiding officer will request the assistance of law enforcement officers in the removal of a disorderly person when that person's conduct interferes with the orderly progress of the meeting. The presiding officer will call for a recess or an adjournment to another time when the lack of public decorum so interferes with the orderly conduct of the meeting as to warrant such action. I As you come up to the podium, we would ask that you state your name and address. If you do would not like to put your state your address publicly, you

012can write it put it on a white slip on the podium and give it to Mrs. Maynard clerk. Prior to inviting guests up, there's an additional um statement I'd like to add. The board welcomes public input and values the opportunity to hear from the community. Please be advised that the thoughts and opinions expressed by speakers during public comment are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or values of the Fond du Lac School District or the Board of Education. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a respectful environment. If anyone would like to come forward, we'd love to welcome you. Good evening, members of the school board. My name is Peyton and I go to Woodworth Middle School in Fond du Lac. Thank you for letting me speak tonight. I'm here because I

013think students should have a chance to share their perspectives when big decisions are being discussed, especially now when changes like school closures and possible cuts to activities are being discussed. Right now, we've heard that some schools might be closed. That's really scary for students. It could mean changing schools, losing teachers we care about, and being separated from our friends. It could also mean bigger class sizes. Bigger class sizes meet make learning harder. Teachers have less time to help each student and it could be harder to focus or ask questions. Students schools is really challenging and this could make it even more difficult for students to succeed. School isn't about showing up and doing work. It's where we learn, grow, and build relationships. It's where we figure out who we are and what we enjoy. When

014schools are cut and classes get bigger, what that experience changes in a negative way. We've also heard things like middle school sports and and the musical might be affected. Even if nothing is final yet, just the possibility worries a lot of us. For many students, sports and activities like the musical are what makes school exciting. They help us build friendships, gain confidence, and feel like we belong. Taking those away or even thinking about it makes school feel less like a place we want to be. I understand that these decisions are complicated and that adults are the ones who vote, but students are the ones living with these changes every day. That's why we should at least have a chance to share our thoughts. Even something simple like surveys, student representatives, or listening sessions would help

015us feel included and heard. We care about our schools, we care about our future, and we want to be a part of the conversation. Please remember, you're not just making decisions about our buildings, you're making decisions about our lives. Thank you for your time. Thank you, Peyton. And I appreciate you putting your address down and giving it to Mrs. Maynard. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Would anyone else like to come forward? Usually we have our timer up. You have it. Great, thank you. Hello, school board of Fond du Lac. I have I am Charlene Jawani. I am been a substitute teacher in the school district for over 10 years. Um I My concern is that um students are being um still not disciplined when they are the ones that are hurting the teachers and other

016students. Currently, we have a student that has hurt staff repeatedly and nothing's being done with it. And I'd like to know why. I know some students, as soon as they hurt other either other students or other staff they get their suspension, they get their and then possible in school and out of school, but right now, I have I know of a student that has hurt several teachers and staff, including myself that nothing's being done with. And I want to know why. Thank you. Thank you. Can you put your address down? Yes. Thank you. Is there anyone else that would like to come forward at this time? Thank you. >> [snorts] >> Jim Hess, Fond du Lac County. Uh thank you. Uh that was really neat to see a young person come up and speak. That

017was very courageous. Um The Oshkosh Area School District, just to the north of us in 2025 passed a $200 million facility referendum with a promise of decreased operational costs. Last Monday it was announced by the superintendent an additional $3 million deficit was found after their initial round of cuts were made earlier this year. Most school districts are required by law to undergo an annual third-party audit that typically focuses on financial state statements or compliance to state and federal laws. These audits are broad and routine. I believe it's time for every school district to perform annual forensic audits. Forensic audits are deep dives into mismanagement and tracing every dollar. With the probability of another referendum in Fond du Lac, a forensic audit would go a long way in assuring voters first, that we need a referendum

018and second, the money is being spent prudently. There is limited evidence that increased spending alone improves student success. How funds are used matters more than funding levels. Spending on public schools by the state and as a whole is very close to the highest levels ever. And there are no reasons to believe giving even more money to public schools will improve outcomes. The governor did veto Assembly Bill 614 last month. That would have given teachers more authority to protect themselves and remove violent or disruptive students. It was just mentioned. From the their classrooms. The bill would have established clear re-entry plans for students before they return to class. The governor's veto of 614 is undeniable evidence that one Evers is not concerned about the safety of teachers and two, his unwillingness to address the growing teacher

019shortage and retention crisis. I'm certainly all for improving teachers working environment. But at the same time realistic about teachers' wages and benefit package. Want you to remember this number in the bottom, $99,540. Average teacher salary $64,000. The starting salary is $45,000. Now, we have to remember 14 weeks a year, you know, teachers are not working. Uh now plus one day for anti-ICE a protest uh May 1st. If you take the 52 weeks in the year and divide that into the $64,000, you get $1,230 a week. Multiply that times the 14 weeks that the teachers don't work and you get $17,000. You add the 64,000 uh dollars to the 17 and you get $81,220. Then add the fringe benefits, insurance and WRS pension plans. A monster bucks $26,000 less the 12% that teachers uh insurance, you

020know, they have to share in their premiums, the 12% and that So, that equals $7,000. You subtract that from the $26,000 of the benefits and that equals $8,000 $320. So, you add the 81 and the 18 and you get the final total package of $99,540 according to the NEA. Thank you, Mr. Hess. Is there anyone else that would like to come forward? Seeing none, uh if we could have a motion for the consent agenda. I move the Board of Education approve the consent agenda as follow: April 13th, 2026 Board of Education regular meeting met regular meeting workshop and executive minutes, personnel recommendations, retirements and res- resignations and bi-monthly financial reports. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Godfrey, a second by Mr. Laverents. Um again, at any time uh feel free to reach out to

021your school board members if you have any questions regarding any of the financial checks that were given as uh we look into those prior to every meeting. We could have the roll, please. Godfrey. Yes. Henschel. Yes. Laverents. >> Yes. Main, yes. Trannel. As it's my first night, I'm going to abstain from that vote. Frame. Yes. Motor. Yes. Motion carries six and one abstention. Okay, moving forward to Chief of Finance and Operations individually considered resolutions, if we could have a motion. Move that the Board of Education approve the the designated public depositories for the 2026-27 as as follows: National Exchange Bank and Trust of Fond du Lac, Associated Bank, Harris Bank, State of Wisconsin Local Government Investment Pool, Wisconsin Investment Series Corporation and Mid America. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Godfrey, a second by

022Mr. Laverents. Uh thank you, Mrs. Motor. Uh including executive summary, um this is the same list as last year. And so, these are the I'll just make note the the near majority, overwhelming majority of district funds are in National Exchange Bank and Trust of Fond du Lac and um between that and the in the Wisconsin Investment Series Cooperative. So, but the other institutions are business are firms that we do handle financial transactions. Thank you. Any questions? Okay, can we have the roll, please? Henschel. Yes. Laverents. >> Yes. Main, yes. Trannel. Yes. Frame. Yes. Godfrey. Yes. Motor. Yes. Motion carries 7-0. Uh moving forward to authorize signature stamps, if we could have a motion. I move that the Board of Education approve present electronic stamp or signature stamps to be used until those containing the signatures

023of the newly elected board officers are obtained. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Laverents and a second by Mr. Godfrey. And this is something we do every year, correct? >> Yes, uh because district financial transactions do transpire uh that require the three board signatures and we don't know that till this prior this moment this evening. Uh you need to we are asked that you authorize that to so business financial transactions can be legitimate using the old signature stamps signatures. So, Okay. Thank you. Uh any questions? Otherwise, the roll, please. Laverents. Yes. Main, yes. Trannel. Yes. Frame. Yes. Godfrey. Yes. Henschel. >> Yes. Motor. Yes. Motion carries 7-0. Moving forward, if we could have a motion to consider the approval um of the resolution authorizing transfer of funds. I move the Board of Education approve

024the resolution authorizing transfer of funds, the establishment of an escrow account with respect to and the defeasance of certain of the general obligation refunding bonds series 2020A dated October 13th, 2020. Second. So, we have a motion by Mr. Henschel, a second by Mr. Laverents. Um and this is something we voted on bringing forward a few months ago, but I know we've had some questions. Um so, um do would you like to clarify and then we'll if there are any questions? Yeah, at a high level, um what you're authorizing tonight is the second half of a defeasance, which is the financial way to say you're prepaying your long-term debt or your long-term loan. You're prepaying the loan. So, think of it like a homeowner that makes a prepayment on the principal, you refinance that. And the

025really primary purpose of that is twofold. Um many, many districts use it as a um a tax levy management tool, which you've done the last several years, couple of years to to manage that mill rate so you don't have these spikes in tax levy. That's usually appreciated by taxpayers, but primarily from a financial savings as you can see, uh we're projecting over the course of course of the remaining issue over the 20-year issue to save taxpayers in around $700,000 in interest avoidance. And so, um that's really what you're doing that you authorized that levy this past fall. So, you authorized an additional $1.6 million in tax levy that can only be used for prepayment of debt. And in order to actually make that transfer, you do it in the second half here um in in

026to actual off- you have to act to authorize the release of those funds. So, that's what you're approving or you're acting on tonight. One of the clarification questions I had asked you was um and you just stated it again that these funds can only be used for that debt. So, I asked, you know, cuz we are looking at cuts and so forth and so, is that true then? Yes. Yeah, it's a great question, Mrs. Motor. Um one that I think it underscores the the real fundamental pieces of the revenue limit, which is state law. Uh boards, local boards cannot have do not have authority to levy unlimited amounts of funds. Uh but there are certain um provisions in state law that allow you to levy for very, very particular purposes. One of those being paying

027your long-term debt obligations. And so, you have authority to levy any amount of money any year, but only to pay debt. And so, it can't be used to pay for the operations of the district. It can't be used to uh fund deficits that are operational. That's all housed in our separate fund 30 accounts, fund 39. Um if you're looking at your budget report, and so that's where this is going to go. And so, many, many districts say, "Well, that's a good thing to prepay debt and save taxpayers interest expense." But it doesn't it doesn't like impact your operational funds. It doesn't stave off deficits. Can't be used for anything else. And so, um that that's Thank you. That's the response there. Thank you. Any questions regarding this then? No, I know I reached out earlier

028today um and I think you did a good job at explaining it to at a at a lower level. You know, we're basically doing this to try to save interest on the taxpayers. So, Yeah. Um I'm I I'm glad you explained it that way. Thank you. Then if we can have the roll, please. Main, yes. Trannel. Yes. Frame. Yes. Godfrey. Yes. Henschel. Yes. Laverents. >> Yes. Motor. Yes. Motion carries 7-0. Uh next, if we can have a motion to consider board compensation, we'll have conversation after the motion is put through. I move that the Board of Education approve the following compensation for the for the 2026-27 for term. Board president at $1,800 and all other board members at $1,600. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Godfrey, a second by uh Mr. Laverents. This is

029something we typically talk about as boards. Um I I that uh we received an example of what uh boards in our area some boards don't take any funds some boards take more than or paid more than what we have on here in the past we've had conversations about um possibly just say no we want to give back to our school district Mr. Henschel always brings up a really good point regarding that. Yeah We never do this for the money right everyone of us when you see the equity grants come up and stuff I don't need mine every year there's the differences if we don't take compensation we give it back and it goes into general fund. If we take the compensation then we get to dictate how we want to spend it within the district

030you know like Karen had a number of them at the equity I've you know bought in keyboards in the past for band I've done you know different things like that so to me I don't care either way you know because I don't keep it anyways but at the end of the day I I even that when I first got on board I asked Mike I was like hey why don't you just keep it then I don't have to pay taxes on it and he goes well that goes to general fund I go so I don't get to dictate where it goes then he goes nope and I was like all right I'll take it. You know cuz it's more of those pet projects than that you know we may have a personal tie to. If

031it's band if it's music if it's art or if it's a the robotics program things like that you know and if you don't want to donate it you don't have to either but that's something I've always choose to do so. Other discussion? I think it's just worth noting I think we were the lowest one other than yeah the ones that didn't get it but yeah I mean I I like he said I don't care either way if we don't get nothing we don't do this for the money. Right and I don't mind either and it is fun to give it back to projects where you're invested in that's what I enjoy doing. Is able to give it back and it gives me that chance. Yeah I love having that control to say where where it

032goes and to see the the the end product of where it where it where you can control where it goes so it's it doesn't matter to me how we do it so Okay. So we have a motion on the table that we do accept that and we've had conversation it's if people were interested in doing something as far as giving it back we can work with Mr. um Gerlach what's going to happen to someone it was you today Mr. Gerlach sorry Mr. Gerlach so as we're looking at doing that we can work through him on that so can I have the roll please oh sorry go ahead. >> to add you know so if you do it through Mike there's two different ways I actually like going through the local organizations like if you do

033the music you can go to the parent parent organization the music organization nice advantage is then you also get a tax receipt right so you get to deduct it. So you know I you can do it through Mike but I I do like you know the clubs or the organizations within you know cuz then you can have a little more control on how it's getting spent within the organization. If you do the equity grants then you have to go through Mike. >> Equity grants through Mike. Yep that's the equity grant and even that one I did the equity grant and then I said well went and did a keyboard for the music Yeah. I still did it through the parent or the music department or the So far equity things in the equity grants has

034sparked my interest so it's like I'll just do that cuz then I know what they want right. Well it's it's nice cuz you can put an item to it. Right. You know and you can go and you can actually see what they're doing with it and experience that is gratifying you know to see what your investment's being used for so Great can we have the roll please? Tranel? Yes. Frame? Yes. Godfrey? Yes. Henschel? Yes. Laverentz? Yes. Main? Yes. Oh I'm off Henschel >> [laughter] >> Yes. Laverentz? And then Main yes and Motor. Yes sorry. Did everyone get to vote 7-0? I'm so sorry. Thank you in this next section appointing WASB delegates and alternate this is another common exception to Robert's Rules which requires a motion prior to discussion. The board may discuss before we

035make an official motion so last year well I think Mr. Godfrey's done this a number of years the WASB delegate um and I know last year Mrs. Main did to represent the board at the annual WASB state educational convention held the January 20th and 22nd during the delegate assembly. I move that Board of Education appoint Karen Main as the WASB delegate and Antonio Godfrey as the alternate. Second. Okay so we have a motion >> [laughter] >> We have [snorts] a motion by Mr. Henschel and a second by Mr. Tranel and can we have the roll please thank you thank you both for your time and energy. Frame? Yes. Godfrey? Yes. Henschel? Yes. Laverentz? >> Yes. Main? Yes Tranel? Yes. Motor yes motion carries 7-0 I'm glad it's just not me. Okay [laughter] we're moving on

036to Oh my goodness. Board member reports so any student staff activities so we'll start Mr. Laverentz anything to share today? Yeah so I went to Rosenau's catch a wave like kind of parent kids night thing it was really fun you know I saw you there Ms. Main it's you know get beach balls you know do a lot of activities in the gym had a book fair thing there it was it was really fun. Thank you. Yes go ahead Mr. Godfrey. I also stopped in at the catch a wave event I had had took a visit over to Riverside I hadn't had a chance to get over there for a little bit it was really really nice to get into to Riverside again to see some of the kids that I haven't seen in a while

037and then I also attended the the new member meeting with the WASB it was all it's good to hear some of the the old stuff and some of the new things that are affecting school board members and it's good to see some of the people that I haven't seen for a while. That's all. Thanks Mr. Godfrey Mrs. Main. Um I also did the Rosenau show um catch a wave show and I stopped in one day at um Lakeshore second grade class with Mrs. Schmidt my niece is in that class and my niece wanted me to come so I spent the morning very fun got to see ECLA stuff going on learning about the war of 1812 well I'm like I didn't do that till high school so and saw some math and and everything good

038stuff going on there and then I also attended the WASB new member meeting. Thank you. Mr. Tranel? All right so as a new member I haven't had a lot of time yet to get out to things but I was able to attend the WASB convention or meeting with some other board members which was great and this weekend we actually got to to witness our facilities in use which was awesome to see so a local dance company Wepner's in town here had a huge three-day dance recital there and it's not all Fondy kids but man we have a lot of talented kids and adults in this community and watching that facility being used to its fullest and watching people engage in it it's just awesome and I would love for more people to be able to

039get there and see what Fondy can do within the facilities that we have. Thank you. Got out to Parkside also the high school and then multiple different sporting events like track last Friday the boys actually took second at a big St. Norbert track meet with like 27 schools I think the girls took like seventh so they are both had good showings and then I know in the past we had um we got rained out at Hammer Open which Ed you know he was uh track coach teacher in the district and they are rescheduling it for May 21st out at our complex so May 21st will be the reschedule on that so come on it's our first annual we're trying to make it an annual thing so it'll be good for the track program. Thank you.

040Mr. Frame? Um I also went to the Rosenau make a wave thing we uh did not have a quorum cuz I left before Antonio showed up. I went to a PTO meeting after that so I went to various PTO meetings throughout the district and I would just urge um our listening audience if you have kids in uh different schools to get involved with the PTO a lot of them are struggling to survive right now and they got a lot of the same members getting burnt out so if more families would get involved or you want to get involved in your kids' education, that's a good place to start. Um, >> [clears throat] >> we went to the WASB meeting. Um, it's always good to get a refresher. Um, you know, I've been on the board

041for a year, but it's nice to um just just see what's going on or what's changing. Um, and then today I went to Evans to visit for a little bit. Um, it's always fun over there visiting with Mr. Schultis. Um, went into some different classrooms. Um, some kids learning about Greek mythology amongst what I forget his name, but the guy who discovered the Hudson Bay. Um, they were learning about that, too. So, uh that was just fun to see how the CKLA is impacting kids and how they're learning from this. Um, it's I like to see that. And then uh various girls' softball um games. Uh, they're having a great season. It's really fun watching that team play. Thank you. Uh, I was able to attend the WASB new board member um event. Uh, and

042like we said, it was a it was great to welcome uh Mr. Tranalin, and um so thank you for everyone who could attend that. That's all I have for uh this board meeting. We are now up to our second opportunity for public comment, in which we will follow the same um agreements that we spoke of before. Is there anyone that would like to come forward? Good evening. Sorry, Trotter. Um, there was um a post on the Fond du Lac School District Facebook page that said big news for our Fond du Lac School District families. We are thrilled to announce that Evans Elementary, Parkside Elementary, Sabish Middle School, and Woodworth Middle School have been named 2024-25 Wisconsin Schools of Recognition. This honor from the DPI celebrates high impact, meaning these schools are hitting it out of

043the park when it comes to student growth and closing achievement gaps. Out of the entire state, only 71 schools earn this title, and four of them are right here in Fond du Lac. Join us in celebrating this incredible hard work of our students, teachers, and staff. Way to go, Cardinals. That's excellent news, and I would love for um either um that some staff member, or even staff members from each of these four schools to come and report out on their numbers with closing the achievement gaps, because to me, that's my biggest um look and ask all the time, as everybody knows. Um, it needs to be reported out by race to make any sense. So, I would love to have um people from these four schools come in out loud report about how what their

044numbers look like at a at um decreasing, you know, I mean, like making the achievement gap closer to each other. Um, I also wanted to say um speaking of all students, like we always hear from the district um coming through. Um, I just want to over the summer and starting next year and things like that, um when we're talking about all students, I'm actually wearing a t-shirt for my youngest daughter. I had five daughters go through the district, and my youngest daughter is graduating from college um for undergrad and um next Friday. She is graduating from a HBCU. So, my ask is that starting very young, if um staff um would include black students when they're talking to them about future things like black colleges. So, my ask would be if staff doesn't if they're

045not familiar with HBCUs, that they need to become familiar with HBCUs if they keep saying all students, you'd want to have a little background, you know, um of knowledge about inclusion of talking about historically black colleges, that that is definitely a um opportunity for black students as, you know, they um graduate high school. And then um my last thing is a shout-out to Mr. Hammer, because I'm a track and field mom. He was also the bus driver all those years for every event that he took all his athletes to. So, thank you. Thank you, Sherry. Is there anyone else that would like to come forward? Seeing none, uh are there any other appropriate matters? Uh, there's one thing that I wanted to uh just review is um if staff members are finding there is an

046issue, there is a really specific chain of command um to get answers on, and if um if the the answer isn't what you need, then there is another step to go. So, as um staff members have concerns, please access that. Um, and then the other thing I just wanted to um highlight, too, is that uh we do always include third-party audits that review all of our work, and um I know we report out on that during board meetings, too. So, I just wanted to highlight those two items. Okay, so uh now if we could have a motion to adjourn. I motion to adjourn the workshop to discuss policy update five or 35-1. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Frame, and a second by Mr. Godfrey. Can we please have the roll? Godfrey? Yes. Henschel?

047Yes. Laverentz? Yes. Main? Yes. Tranal? Yes. Frame? Yes. Motor? Yes. Motion carries 7-0. Uh, we are adjourning the meeting at 5:50, and we will come back together in 5 minutes work, or do we need 10? Five's good? Enough for a bathroom break. Okay, 5 minutes, we'll be back at uh 5:55. >> [music] [music] >> Okay. I like to call the workshop of the Board of Education to order at 6:03. Can we please have the roll call? Frame. Here. Godfrey. Here. Henschel. Here. Lawrence. Here. Main here. Trannel. Here. Motor here. Uh seven all seven members are present. So we are here to discuss the policy update 35.1. Yes, thank you. So just to start out um and I know some people had mentioned because BoardDocs was down they didn't get a chance to really go through

048some of the updates to the um board policies, which is okay. I will go through and read through each one because that's what I need to do. Um and then at the end if you do have different questions and you want to email them to myself and Halley then I can do another board update on specific questions regarding those. If there is some conversation here because you just want to, that's absolutely fine as well. For the viewing audience, just telling you right off the bat, there's about nine pages that I have to read here. Um so as I said to some of the board members, this is not Reading Rainbow. I don't expect this to be very riveting, but it is going through the policies so that you you are aware of them. So with

049that, we're going to start out with the definitions page and for this policy it establishes a comprehensive list of terms and their specific meaning for use throughout the district's bylaws and policies. It's important lies in ensuring consistency and clarity across all district governance and operational documents, preventing ambiguity that could lead to misinterpret misinterpretation of legal issues. This policy now includes the def the definition of school support organization, SSO which is a topic of several policy and administrative guideline revisions in a recent special update. The SSO change is recommended but not required. It also includes gaming devices as part of the definition of personal communication devices, which are PCDs due to a recent change in statutory language relative to student use of PCDs in schools. The gaming device addition to the definition of PCD is a

050statutory definition and is required. Um if you're in that policy, the two biggest pieces you'll see are highlighted and it talks about the personal communication devices as well as school support organizations, SSO. The next one is by >> I'm sorry. I was just curious what was all defined in there in the PCDs? Like does it have a definition of each of them in there? >> It is it really I think goes into referred to as a wireless communication device, meaning anything that's portable wireless device that has a capability to provide voice, messaging, or other data communication between two or more parties and includes pretty much Yeah. as of right now everything I can think of, but I'm sure as we continue on those will change and then >> especially gaming device, those change all the

051time. So I'm assuming it's like any sort of wireless communication or anything like that. >> Correct. And then in terms of the SSO since we were doing that it's any other non-government organization or group or persons whose primary purpose is to support a district school, school club, academics, art athletics, or social activities related to a school that collects or receives money, materials, property, or securities from students, parents, or members of the general public. So booster club, foundation, parent-teacher association. I think that's important because a lot of times I know we have gotten questions as a board um why did you spend money on this or that? And a lot of times people don't realize that our booster clubs and a lot of our organizations give us the money because it needs to be done legally

052to ensure that there's not anything happening um but that goes through us to be spent on specific things. So sometimes the money that you see in our own meetings is not money that is it's money that is given from an outside organization to us for a specific reason. Then bylaw 0142.7 orientation has been revised. This policy outlines the importance of preparing each board member for their duties to ensure the effective functioning of the board, encouraging new members, which many of you did, um to understand board functions, district operations, and procedures. It is important because it ensures that all board members are well informed and equipped to make sound decisions for the district. This policy revision provides new optional topics for onboarding new members and revisions are not required. And it talks about specifically letters E

053and F were added, which is review of student achievement data and trends, as well as review of board responsibilities and committees. Uh and that being said, uh those of us who were at the new WASB, um there was a district there that had a great example of an onboarding toolkit um that we brought that we thought might be really good um to uh use and then make it our own as we continue to >> do have something in the works that I had actually started back in September, but I'm going to be honest, we had a few things going on. That is not at the level that I would want for you as a board, but I think then with what you have and we'll we'll combine them for a a great output. Thank you.

054Yep. Bylaw 0144.5 Board Member Behavior, Communications, and Code of Conduct. This policy outlines the expected ethical, professional, and responsible conduct for all board members, covering their behavior, communications, and interactions with staff. It is important because it establishes the standards of integrity and professionalism necessary for effective governance and protects the district's legal standing and ensures a focus on the welfare of students. The revisions to this policy update include communicating that individual board members, other than the board president, do not have the authority to act on complaints or investigations. It is important because it establishes a clear chain of command and ensures that all complaints are handled through the proper channels, maintaining consistency and fairness in the process. The revisions are recommended but not required. Um and if you want specifics on any of those um letter

055M, it talks about again just the bylaws and public expression of board members um as well as your email and also enforcement um complaints alleging violations of board member code of conduct can be brought by any parent, student, staff member, or district resident who under such circumstances shall perform the duties of the board president described sorry, if it is the board president then the vice president can do it um described in this policy. All complaints shall bear the name and signature of the complainant and include a detailed description of the alleged misconduct any evidence supporting the allegations, and the action relief being requested. The board president may choose to consolidate complaints for consideration if more than one individual files a similar complaint, but reserves the right to refuse to consider any subsequent complaint on the

056same matter unless previously unknown materials have been raised. Um I think those are the big components of that. The next one that there is some pieces is policy 1210 Board-Superintendent Relationship. This has been revised as well. This policy defines the relationship between the board and the superintendent emphasizing the board's role in establishing policies and the superintendent's responsibility in administering them. It is important for ensuring clear lines of authority and efficient operation of the school district with the superintendent serving as the primary professional advisor to the board. The policy revisions focus on including the superintendent's authority to delegate duties to staff members who are then accountable to the administrator for their performance. In turn, the board holds the superintendent accountable for the overall administration of the district, including their actions and personal behavior. These revisions are

057recommended but not required. Specifically, it talks about as the administrator head of the district, the superintendent may delegate duties and responsibilities, including those contained in board policy. You'll see sometimes the capital S as something that can be um be delegated. Um those staff performing such duties and responsibilities shall be held accountable by the superintendent for their performance as employees of the district. The board shall hold the superintendent accountable for the administration of the district, actions taken by the superintendent, and the superintendent's personal behavior. Page two. Policy 1213, 3213, and 4213 Student Supervision and Welfare also revised. These policies establish a standard of care to protect student safety by clearly defining behavioral boundaries for all staff. As required by the 2025 Wisconsin Act 57, the updated language mandates that parents be notified of sexual misconduct reports

058by 5:00 p.m. on the same day or noon the next day is if the report is received and I see a little typo there, so we'll have to get that. It's an is instead of if if um if the report is received on a school day after the end of regularly scheduled instruction or on a day that is not a school day by noon of the next calendar day. A new comprehensive optional section on appropriate staff and student relationships further safeguards students by explicitly prohibiting boundary invasions such as grooming, inappropriate inappropriate digital contact or unauthorized transport. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, and may be reported to external agencies as required by law. Finally, the policy now requires an annual notice to parents regarding their statutory right

059to access staff disciplinary records. The non-optional language changes are required for policy compliance with Wisconsin Act 57. Um Policy 1230.01, development of administrative guidelines. This policy delegates to the superintendent the responsibility for designing and implementing administrative guidelines for the district's operation, ensuring they are consistent with board policies. It is important for establishing clear operational procedures and ensuring that the district's daily functions align with the board's strategic vision. There are new optional clauses regarding the superintendent consulting with stakeholders and the publication of administrative guidelines and handbooks on the district website. For transparency, the policy revisions provide new optional topics and revisions are not required. Now we got to get back to where I was there. Uh the next one is 1240, evaluation of the superintendent. This policy emphasizes the importance of periodically evaluating the superintendent's performance

060to assist both the board and the administrator in their responsibilities and ensure effective leadership. It is crucial for making informed decisions regarding contract renewal, salary, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and establishing objectives to advance the district's goals. This policy revision includes new options to allow the board to make decisions regarding the superintendent's contract renewal, determine their salary and performance-based incentives, and assess his progress toward district strategic goals. The policy revisions provide new optional topics and revisions are not required. Policy 2131.01, reading instructional goals and kindergarten assessment. This policy outlines the the board's program of reading goals for students from kindergarten to 12th grade and mandates the employment of a certified reading specialist. And I want to stop there for a second because that is something that has been brought up at numerous board board meetings in

061terms of administration at the district level. Reading specialists, according to Wisconsin, are considered administrators, although they are not on our administrative schedule. But in terms of reporting that to the state, they are listed as administrators in the Fond du Lac School District. >> And how many do we have? I'm going to guess this is and I can give you a better number, but >> but What? 5, 10, 20? >> Three? Probably I'm again very spitballing and I Yeah, just a round. I don't need >> I'm guessing at least 12, probably. Okay. 12-ish. Yep. Are reading specialists the same as the interventionists? Or how do >> We have We have We have our reading interventionists as well as general interventionists. Any reading interventionists right now to be able to to work with our tier three students

062on an intervention have to have that reading license. So at at the state level, we're reporting roughly 12 additional people under administrative title that's really not administrative where other schools may not have reported that is what I've been told. So I I don't know if that's accurate or not. I just I've been told that >> I just I've been told that other schools may may or may not report it that way. So yeah, I just want to make sure cuz you do hear that in the public, hey, we got this many administrators. Well, our reporting off of DPI is different than what we really classify as >> And I would would say the ones that we would be reporting are the ones that are actually acting in that that manner as well as if somebody

063has a similar to a a administrator's license. We have people that have that license that are not administrators and we do not report it that way then. Okay. So Um again, so reading specialists develop and coordinate a comprehensive reading curriculum. It is important important for promoting student reading skills through assessment and interventions, ensuring that students at risk of reading difficulty receive necessary support. This policy now includes the interventions required by law under Act 20 for each qualifying student. The superintendent must create, provide, and monitor a personal reading plan with interventions, share it with parents, and notify them of progress after 10 weeks. Revisions in this policy are required based on information provided by state statute and the Department of Public Instruction. Policy 2261.01, parent and family engagement in Title 1 programs. This is revised as

064well. This policy outlines requirements for parent and family engagement in Title 1 programs, ensuring meaningful consultation and involvement of parents in their children's education. This is crucial for improving academic quality, addressing barriers to participation, and fostering a strong partnership between schools and families. This policy revision is provided to clarify the distinction between the policy and the parent and family engagement policy, which is the plan developed by the district. The use of the term policy to describe the plan can create confusion as to what the annual requirement is. Federal law requires that the district conduct an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the parent and family engagement policy. The board policy uses the term plan to assist in distinguishing between the board policy and the engagement plan developed per the board policy. Adoption of

065these policy revisions are recommended but not required. That's a lot of words to basically say there's a plan and a policy and they're not the same thing. Interscholastic Athletics Policy 2431. This policy recognizes the value of interscholastic athletics, emphasizing maximum student participation, good sportsmanship, team play, and fair competition over winning. It is important for providing students with opportunities to develop athletic abilities and fostering school loyalty and community interest. The policy revisions include adopting name, image, and likeness compensation standards set by the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, criteria that meet or exceed the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association standards, or WIAA, and directing the superintendent to provide interscholastic athletics in accordance with WIAA rules. Language unique to the Fond du Lac School District was also removed. This policy will have warranted representation through NEOLA if challenged. It's recommended

066to improve options and enhance clarity. I It is why I'm going to voice my opinion on WIAA right now cuz I we >> a long time. I don't think you want me to have that conversation. And I voiced it to their executive people, so Okay. I'm not a fan right now. Termination and resignation, Policy 4140. This policy establishes a clear official procedure for ending the employment relationship, whether through termination by the employer or resignation by the employee. It defines who has the authority to act, board or district administrator, on employee terminations. Unlike administrators and teacher teachers, there is no statutory requirement that the board terminate support staff. For maximum flexibility and expediency in managing vacancies, NEOLA's counsel recommends the board delegate support staff termination authority to the superintendent, again that's capital S or designee, which

067is Ms. Lombardo usually. Districts are encouraged to review their current termination authority for support staff. Policy 5112, entrance age. Also revised, this policy establishes student entrance age requirements consistent with Wisconsin law and sound educational practice, ensuring equitable treatment for all. It is Its importance lies in providing clear guidelines for student enrollment in kindergarten and first grade, promoting consistency and fairness. The policy revision includes clarification on days, which are school days, and includes a new section on age verification, and its adoption is recommended. So for us, the child's age is verified at the time of enrollment, um whether that was 4K or kindergarten, just so the board knows that as well. Policy 5135, student identification numbers and cards. This is new. This policy This new policy mandates that if students are issued an identification card, the

068student also receives a unique identification number distinct from their social security number. The policy is important because it ensures student privacy by avoiding social security numbers and provides a critical resource for student well-being by including required contact information for student for suicide prevention and crisis support on identification cards. Items in this new policy are required by law but not to have in policy. This policy is recommended but not required. And we do have we did check that on the identification cards that we do have that on the back at the middle school and high school level that it has a suicide prevention piece as well. And again, uh Mr. Laverentz, so policy 5136 personal communication devices revised. This policy regulates the use of student personal personal communication devices PCDs to protect the student staff and

069learning environment from disruption. It establishes clear rules to prevent academic dishonesty, safeguard the privacy of individuals, and address harmful behaviors like cyberbullying and harassment. Ultimately, the policy is intended to establish a safe and focused educational setting by managing when and how these devices are used on school property. This policy revision is result of 20 2025 Wisconsin Act 42 requiring each school board to adopt by July 1st, 2026 and submit a copy of this policy to the department no later than October 1st, a policy generally prohibiting students from using wireless communication devices during instructional time. Each school board must define such a device as any portable wireless device capable of voice, messaging, uh or data communication including cell phones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices. The policy must allow exceptions for emergencies, health management, individualized education programs

070or 504 plans and teacher approved educational uses. School boards may also include additional exceptions if they determine they benefit student education or well-being. Finally, the policy acknowledges that Wisconsin state statute 120.12 29E allows school boards to adopt policies more restrictive than 20 the 2025 Wisconsin Act 42. And what that specifically mentioning is right now it is not a bell to bell that's been conversation if it would be bell to bell or if it is just during instructional time. So that will be something that we will have more conversation of as a board of what you want it to look like in the Fond du Lac School District. >> What about um watches? That could be anything that can record. >> um no in details. Yep. I'm doing the summary. Okay. Yeah, there's crazy stuff that

071can record now with the meta glasses and everything else. Yep. >> Yeah. And I'm sure there'll be a learning curve as we go through some of these components, but again, I think the biggest one is if you want it bell to bell. Um I did talk with Representative Brill last week and if it would have been by law bell to bell, they actually were they said there would be funding to support the holders and everything else that would go along with it. That is not though the law. It is up to the board, so we have to be able to make a good decision based off of that as well. Do you have recommendations? Uh does your team have thoughts on that yet? I will say my understanding is that the high school and middle

072schools right now it's they're doing a pretty good job by saying they can't have it when they can't have it. Um I'd probably want to dig into it a little bit more to see what that could look like even more so. Mhm. Thank you. Yep. Policy 5411 third grade promotion and retention for at-risk students. This policy governs the promotion of students from third grade to fourth grade ensuring decisions are based on a thorough and equitable process that considers individual student reading needs. It is important for providing clear guidelines and support for students who have not completed their personal reading plans aiming to make promotion decisions that are in the student's best interest. The policy revision includes an appeal process and timelines for appealing the decision to the superintendent. If the school representatives recommend retention, but

073the student's parent or caregivers do not consent to retention, it is best practice although not required by the statute for the student to be promoted to fourth grade regardless of any other facts, circumstances, or analysis. The appeal process while an option is not required. Student use of bicycles. Policy 5514. This policy is being rescinded and replaced by the next one which is policy 5514 yet, but it didn't changes to use of personal transportation devices with the abundance of scooters, skateboards, single tire devices. Um this is the new recommended replacement. This new policy is relevant because it expands the scope of the previous bicycle rule to address a wider variety of modern personal transportation devices like scooters, skateboards, hoverboards whether they're manual or motorized, it establishes clear guidelines for their use on school property focusing on

074safety, liability, and the privilege of operation. Crucially, the policy disclaims board responsibility for damage, theft, or accidents shifting the full risk and liability to the students and their parents. It is recommended but not required. Policy 5515 student use and parking of motor vehicles has been revised. This policy outlines the condition under which students may use motor vehicles to travel to and from school emphasizing the responsibility for property care, safety, and courtesy. It is important for establishing clear guidelines for student drivers ensuring safety and promoting responsible behavior on school grounds. Revisions to this policy include students only being permitted to bring vehicles they own or have expressed permission to operate onto district property. Unauthorized vehicles are a violation. Law enforcement may be contacted. Students may enter a vehicle without consent and school officials can search vehicles

075on district property in accordance with policy. This revision is recommended but not required. Many times people will think that their car if it's on school grounds, again, the school district has all legal authority to have it searched if we believe we need to. So I think that's important to make sure people do know as well. And and if any dogs or whatever that for any kind of sweep, the parking lot is part of the school. Parking lot is part of the school property, absolutely. Thank you, Mr. Henschel. Um policy 5830 student fundraising. This policy governs student fundraising activities within the school district. It ensures that fundraising is conducted in a controlled, ethical, and educationally appropriate manner. Fundraising must be for school-related purposes approved by the principal and comply with federal dietary and financial regulations. This

076policy protects students from coercion, ensures transparency and accountability in fund management, aligns fundraising with educational goals, and ensures compliance with legal and health standards. It also maintains the integrity of the school environment and prevents misuse of school resources. The revision has technical corrections, financial requirements, additional oversight options, and cross-references to other policies. These revisions revisions are recommended but not required. And again, as I had stated earlier, how important it is for any of our school um personnel that if they are doing any sort of fundraising, they are making sure they're following the proper channels that it is going through not only their office but the business office here to for their own safeguarding as well as the safeguarding of the money. So then if this this is being rescinded, so does that then we wouldn't

077have those policies in place anymore? So thank you for catching that. So this says school level fundraisers must be approved by the principal. The principal may permit fundraising by approved school organizations, those whose funds are managed by the board. So the part that was rescinded was fundraising by approved school organizations, those who funds are managed by the district may be permitted in school by the principal. So it's really the principal may permit the fundraising um to happen. So what's nice at the high school level when they do fundraisers, the everything goes to Fond du Lac funds, high school funds. There's all these sub accounts that, you know, um they run them through like music has sub accounts that actually then the sub accounts have sub accounts. You know, when they're doing the fundraising for the

078traveling and stuff like that. So um what's her the new lady Be Gola is it? Mrs. Be? She does a I mean full-time accounting of all these sub accounts. >> just hoping when it was said rescind, it made me think we were getting rid of the policy altogether and I didn't want that to happen. >> clarifying some stuff at the high school. There's a lot of accounting going on up there. >> it's just mislabeled on this overview documentation. >> I read it. It should say revised. It shouldn't say rescind. >> Yeah, as I looked at it then too, I'm like, yeah. Um the one big piece though to include that's in the definition as well that I know we've ran into before, so I want to make it again public. Crowdfunding activities aimed at raising

079funds for specific classroom or school activity including extracurricular activity or to obtain supplemental resources require approval in accordance with this policy. So just to make sure people don't choose to do a crowdfunding component. I know it happens, but it's it's it's not it's not advised because that money then it's really hard to say does does those do those does the money do the um belongings of it belong to the district or belong to the individual as well. Mike, I don't know if you have Reality is it's only the board and the superintendent and designate needs and represent the district in that. So, and you have to tie to bank accounts. So, if people do do it the right way, it's teachers call and Oh. So, what I was about to say or what I'm saying

080is when staff approach it through the policy way as it's outlined and get approval from the superintendent through the administrative, we can link it to like Mr. Henschel said, a local school district bank account at National Exchange Bank. And so, there are times when we go through that that we would allow that. The contrary to that is wonderful ideas. I'm not saying anyone sets out in a bad intent. Oh, I I already got this set up and I've taken in X number of dollars, but that is tied to a bank account that's not under district control. And frankly, what I tell them is you you really didn't you collected money usually in a nonprofit manner and you have no authority to do that and someone could accuse you of fraudulent use of that money. So,

081no staff member should actually want to do this against the policy. Um and I don't mean anyone sets out to do this ill-intended. It's just this is why this policy is so important for teachers, through the goodness of their heart, wanting something fundraised and then have to be open and exposed to a fraud accusation by someone who donated, that would be a terrible thing. So, people are listening and you would be interested in this, please follow the policy cuz they don't really have authority to do so otherwise. And I think even the supporting other organizations that are doing a fundraiser, we have to be extremely careful as a school district because if our name is on there supporting that, the money should follow through the proper channels of the school district. And I know that's

082hard because we are an organization that can get out to a lot of people quickly, but we have to be careful with that because again, we have to have checks and balances with the money. Thank you. Student employment, this one is rescind. So, that one is correct. Um this policy is being rescinded. Teenagers in Wisconsin need a work permit if they are under 16 and are not working in agriculture or domestic service. Schools are no longer authorized provide students with work permits. Parents or guardians must apply for the permit online through the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website. Policy 6152.01, waiver of school fees school fees or fines. This has been revised. This policy provides that school fees and fines do not prevent financially struggling students from accessing their education required materials consistent with requirement

083that such charges cannot be barriers to the educational program. It establishes clear eligibility standards including for low-income and homeless students and outlines a necessary procedure for requesting and appealing fee waivers. By formalizing this process, the policy upholds equity by preventing discrimination against students whose families are unable to pay. The policy revisions make optional the language for fee eligibility standards and the resolution of disputes as well as a defined list and options for fees to be waived. It is recommended to improve options, reflect practice, and enhance clarity. If you have some, then you can ask. Don't hesitate. Um policy 6320, purchasing. This has been revised as well. This policy outlines the procedures for the procurement of all supplies, materials, equipment, and services using district funds, emphasizing compliance with relevant laws and ethical standards. Its importance lies

084in ensuring fair and open competition, responsible financial management, and preventing conflicts of interest in all purchasing transactions. The key policy revisions include reorganization of content as well as clarification on single vendor bids and the timeline for bid delivery to the district. This revision is recommended, but not required. Mr. Gerlach, do you want to add anything to that? I know we've really tightened up on our credit card use and things like that and I know it's difficult sometimes for individuals, but it's honestly for their safety and so that nothing can be accused that it it was spent on things that we can't prove. So, I don't have anything on this direct policy. Um so, I'm not going through the summary. I'm going through the actual policies. Did we miss two policies? Not according to my >>

085Uh 3213 and 4213. Those were part of one of them earlier. >> Those were all part of that. Those were all one of one of them. >> was the 1213, 3213, 4213. It was all under one thing because they were inter-related. And then um Thank you though for checking. Yeah, why are we uh putting 2025 at the bottom of these? Because well, that's these were I think things that were reviewed in 2025. So, because we're not done with 2026, it's not the completion would be my understanding and why that is stated that way, Halley. Do you have any better understanding of that? But that would be my understanding. >> so just curious. Yeah, I agree with that as well as well. So, this original policy update from NEOLA, I think they started working on it

086right at the end of 2025. So, that's when they went through and reviewed this chunk of policies and then they get those out to districts slowly. We meet with our representative to go through and understand them and then present them to you. So, that's why it's a little bit behind the current time. It's based on NEOLA's review timeline. Okay, thank you. I was just curious on that. >> So, if there would be would be a discrepancy, it would go back to what they had provided us and that's when they said that this was legally sound. Policy 6605, crowdfunding. We talked about this a little bit, but this policy regulates the use of online online crowdfunding platforms raise money or resources for district approved educational activities, classrooms, or school-related programs. It ensures that crowdfunding activities align

087with the district's educational mission, maintain financial transparency, and protect student privacy. It also prevents misuse of school branding and resources, ensures legal compliance, and protects donors by requiring the use of secure, low-fee platforms. The revision adds crowdfunding platforms and additional monitoring requirements. These revisions are recommended, but not required. Um can I get more explanation on what crowdfunding is? So, crowdfunding is I'm trying to think of what the big one is. GoFundMe. >> GoFundMe. >> So, if someone puts a GoFundMe account out and wants money for whatever component of it, again, if it's something for our students specifically or a sports team, we should be in knowledge of that and approving that before that would happen. Policy 6610, non-district supported student activity accounts. This policy allows the creation and maintenance of student activity accounts for approved

088activities that do not receive financial support from the district. While the district's while the district holds these funds in custodial accounts, students are fully responsible for managing the funds including budgeting and spending without any financial control or approval from district staff. Staff advisors may supervise, but cannot make or influence final decisions, sorry, financial decisions. These activities must follow established guidelines for fundraising, accounting, and use of district resources. The policy requires that student-led, self-funded activities be managed independently, but responsibly with proper safeguards in place to comply with legal and financial regulations. The revision adds an accounting requirement and includes technical corrections. These revisions are recommended, but not required. So, again, student councils, um components like that that we would have. Policy 7230, gifts, grants, and bequests is revised. This policy outlines how the district accepts and

089management manages gifts, grants, and bequests from individuals or organizations. The board retains the right to approve, reject, or define the use of any donation. Accepted gifts become the property of the district and must align with the board policies and applicable laws. The policy also cites non-discrimination in the acceptance of donations and establishes reporting, tax acknowledgement, and transparency requirements. This helps create a process that handles donations ethically, legally, and transparently, protecting both the district and the donor. Additionally, it helps prevent the acceptance of gifts that could create liability, favoritism, or conflicts of interest, maintaining the trust of the school community. The revision includes additional accountability and protections for the board and the district. These revisions are recommended, but not required. Digital content and accessibility, this is a replacement. This policy provides digital equity and legal compliance

090by mandating that all district web content and mobile apps adhere to the accessibility standards like WCAG 2.1 level AA. This adherence provides individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to access information, programs, and services, preventing discrimination as required by section 504 and the ADA. Furthermore, the policy maintains the professional and educational integrity by the district's digital presence, controlling content for appropriateness, security, and alignment with the district's mission. This was a Oops, sorry. This replacement policy now reflects the US Department of Justice DOJ final rule provisions under title two of the Americans with Disabilities Act requiring state and local government entities including public schools to make web content and mobile applications accessible to individuals with disabilities. There are statutory timelines relative to the technical standards compliance that are addressed in the notes of the policy template. Adoption

091is recommended for a legally compliant guideline. I know that Haley has been working diligently on our website to make sure that it meets all the requirements and then it was pushed back now another 6 months. Correct Haley? A full year. We have until next April to meet that compliance deadline. It's um even the state is working on cuz right now the special education website is frozen for a month while they're working on it. So yeah, this is a crunch for everyone to get 88 compliance. She needs to enjoy that time. Yes. Um 7540.08 artificial intelligence AI. This is a replacement. This policy update or revisions is designed to be legally compliant by referencing and building upon existing federal laws Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act FERPA Individuals with Disabilities Education Act IDEA Children's Online Privacy

092Protection Act COPPA Protection of People Rights Amendment PPRA and state laws public records with laws Wisconsin 19.31 and through S 19.37 personally identifiable information pupil records law um access to personal internet account account information section W section Wisconsin 99 995.55 as well as school board policies related to privacy civil rights and academic integrity. It takes an active risk mitigating approach to integrating AI into education while prioritizing ethical use and legal adherence. This policy replaces the current template due to significant expansion and increased language required for legal compliance. This is something I think we're going to be having updates on regularly as it gets more and more well known. And I'm also glad that we have that handbook in place and like this is something our students and staff are used to. So that was a

093good move. And then the key will be making sure we keep updating that though as well because as things change we have to make sure it's updated. Policy 8462 Child Abuse Child Abuse and Neglect revised. This policy establishes a comprehensive framework for the mandatory identification and immediate reporting of child abuse or neglect. It requires all staff to complete Department of Public Instruction training within their first 6 months and every 5 years thereafter. A critical update aligned with the 2025 Wisconsin Act 57 integrates specific reporting requirements for sexual misconduct by staff members carrying severe disciplinary consequence consequences for a failure to report. By strictly prohibiting investigative delays by staff the policy ensures that law enforcement and child welfare agencies can intervene immediately to protect students and preserve evidence. The changes are required for policy compliance with

094Wisconsin Act 57. Policy 9211 School Support Organization rescinded. Um that was one we had talked about earlier. It is going to be renumbered to be placement policy 9215 for better alignment with the numbering used by all state in the NEOLA networks. So then policy 9215. This policy establishes the standards responsibilities and oversight for school support organizations such as PTAs, PTOs, booster clubs and educational foundations that raise funds or donate resources to support district schools and activities. The policy defines what constitutes an SSO outlines approval and documentation requirements and ensures transparency and accountability in financial activities. The policy protects the district's integrity, financial transparency and legal compliance while supporting valuable community involvement. It ensures SSOs operate independently yet responsibly aligning their goals with those of the district without creating liability for the school system. It also

095ensures donations and fundraising are managed ethically helping to maximize benefits to students while safeguarding public trust. This policy has been redrafted by NEOLA legal counsel. It's readoption is strongly recommended as it contains important text that satisfies state and federal accountability requirements. Policy 9700 Relations with Non-School Affiliated Groups has been revised. This policy sets clear rules for how non-school affiliated or outside groups may interact with students, staff and district facilities. It prohibits the use of district resources including names, logos, facilities or personnel for advertising, promotion or fundraising. The policy balances the value of community involvement with the need to safeguard educational priorities and legal responsibilities. NEOLA is reissuing this policy with one revision. The policy is referenced in several of the updated policies in the special update and clients may desire to confirm their original choices

096as a part of this update process. Finally the revision in the non-discrimination statement is consistent with volume 35-1 Non-Discrimination November of 2025 special update. And I promise we're getting to the end. Policy 9700.01 Advertising and Commercial Activities revised. This policy outlines the rules and limitations for advertising and commercial activities involving students, staff or district property. It defines advertising broadly and establishes strict controls over when, where and how commercial messages or promotions may appear in schools. By balancing community involvement with the strict oversight the policy the policy ensures any commercial presence aligns with the district's mission and public trust. The policy contains expanding restrictions in the option for political advertising. In addition this policy is referenced in several of the updates in the special update and clients may desire to confirm their original choices as part

097of this process as well. Finally the revision in the non-discrimination statement is consistent with the volume 35 number one non-discrimination November 2025 special update and I do know we had a couple of board members that had reached out to me regarding some advertising with one of our student organizations that I appreciated as well to make sure we're doing it the right way. And that's all of them right now. So then next steps will be uh bringing them to the board for uh if we have any other questions, comments and then a vote is that accurate? Yes. So according to the bylaws policies are first need to go through a workshop which is what we completed tonight. Our next meeting which is on the fourth will be the first reading and then they will come for

098a second reading as well which will be that second meeting of May. So questions can be asked at that first reading and second reading time. Great. Thank you. And if you get feedback from other people that listen and they're like, well I want to question this because again it is board policy um there's things that can be done. Great. Thank you. Uh so with that could I have someone make a motion for adjournment? I move the Board of Education adjourn to an executive session to discuss school consolidation, staffing and wage negotiations as provided by Wisconsin Statute 19.851c considering employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction or exercise responsibility and e deliberating or negotiating purchase of public properties, the investing of public funds or conducting

099other specified public business whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require closed session. Second. A motion by Mr. Henschel a second by Mr. Godfrey. Can we have the roll please Mrs. Main? Frame. Yes. Godfrey. Yes. Henschel. Yes. Lawrence. Yes. Main yes. Trannel. Yes. Motor. Yes. Motion carries 7-0. The workshop is adjourned at 6:52 and then we will start our executive session in 5 minutes. Yeah, we're going to do it now. >> [laughter] >> Hey.