Sauk Prairie School Board talks about Grand Avenue and Middle School updates, facilities referendum timeline

Bray Architects laid out for the Sauk Prairie School Board at their February 24th meeting the view from 30,000 feet concerning scheduled updates to Grand Avenue and the Middle School facilities. Goals include a general improvement to infrastructure at the Middle School, additional classroom space at Grand Avenue,  as well as building a “21st century learning environment” for both. The preliminary schedule presented by Bray was one of the first times the public at a meeting heard the word “referendum” and indeed a facilities referendum would be necessary for the improvements. Sauk Prairie School District Superintendent Jeff Wright quickly noted that given the aggressive pay off of the school’s existing facilities debt, it’s possible that taxpayers could see a zero impact to their tax bills, as the existing debt will drop, and the new debt will be added for a net zero change to the mill rate. The preliminary schedule—with an emphasis on “preliminary”—ultimately sets a potential referendum date of April 7th, 2026. Critical to the project is a needs assessment of both schools.  Grand Avenue, built in 1928, has had many additions, and the 5th graced wing is in need of most repair. The Middle School, built in 1967-8, has also had several additions and is in need of a multipurpose space and a recess/rehearsal and potential gymnastics area. The project will involve surveys galore, from community to student to staff, and this feedback—with response rates ranging from 18 to 77 percent—is critical.  Board member Tyler Erickson announced at the meeting that although he was on the ballot, he was not seeking office and has withdrawn. At a previous meeting the question was asked how much Federal money the Districts receives, in light of recent funding freezes and cuts by the Trump Administration. Wright broke down the numbers to the board. The largest source of Federal funds, he explained, is the Mental Health Grant at $950,000 allocated to the District. Titles I, II, III, and IV make up roughly $300,000 in funding, and special education $600,000. All told the District has roughly $2 million is Federal funding.