LA CROSSE, Wis., (September 5, 2023) – The School District of La Crosse is pleased to provide an update on the careful use of the operational referendum funds that were overwhelmingly supported by our community this past April. This update underscores our commitment to transparency and accountability, showcasing how the funds have been used to enhance student support, facilitate building maintenance, and sustain crucial programs and personnel.
Student support and well-being
The operational referendum has enabled us to maintain and even strengthen critical student support services. Our students’ mental health remains a top priority, and with these funds, we’ve been able to ensure the availability of school counselors and social workers. Our partnerships with external agencies for mental health counseling have been sustained, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to thrive emotionally and academically. The presence of academic and behavior coaches in our elementary schools has been consistently maintained, reinforcing a positive and supportive learning environment for students and staff.
Building enhancements for a better learning environment
This summer has witnessed significant improvements at Logan and Longfellow Middle Schools. Thanks to the operational referendum, these updates include orchestra and music room renovations, expanded storage facilities, improved restroom facilities, upgraded art rooms, and renovations to family and consumer science spaces. These enhancements contribute to a more conducive and inspiring learning environment, where students can flourish and educators can continue to deliver exceptional instruction.
Programs and personnel excellence
The success of our educational initiatives hinges on the dedication and expertise of our teaching staff. The referendum allowed us to maintain instructional programming at the highest quality while preserving small class sizes, fostering more personalized interactions between teachers and students. We have been able to offer a well-deserved 6% raise to our teachers, enabling us to attract and retain top-tier educators. This commitment to competitive compensation reinforces our ability to provide an exceptional education preparing students for success.
None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the steadfast support of our community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your dedication to quality public education and ensuring the well-being of all students. Together, we are building a stronger educational foundation for our students and a brighter future for our community.
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