KEWASKUM DISTRICT NEWS
We are just a couple of weeks away from our Winter Break. This is a time often filled with joy, togetherness, and celebration with friends and family. However, it can also be a season of higher than usual stress for many children. The disruption of routines, heightened expectations, and navigating family dynamics can feel overwhelming for some children.
Our district is committed to supporting the well-being of every child, especially during this busy time of year. I’d like to share some tips that may help make the season more manageable and enjoyable for your family.
Routine is often calming for children (and for many adults). Because holiday events alter schedules, see if there are other areas like mealtimes, bedtimes, and quiet moments to keep consistent.
Talking with children about the upcoming holidays can also help calm nerves. Questions like “How are you feeling about the holidays?” or “Is there anything you’re looking forward to—or nervous about?” can help give you insight into areas that kids could use some extra support.
Make sure to have time with them. With the hustle and bustle of travel, shopping, and decorations, it’s easy to miss out on time just to enjoy being together. Simple activities like playing a game, reading a book, or baking together can create cherished memories without the pressure of “getting everything done.”
Discuss and set realistic expectations for the holidays. Sometimes you might need to forgo certain traditions. Make sure to explain why and explore new traditions that may be even more meaningful.
Watch out for signs of stress. Some children have a hard time explaining what they are feeling, but they might show stress through changes in their behavior. Watch out for withdrawal, irritability, or difficulty sleeping. These may be signs of increased stress.
If you ever have questions, feel free to reach out to your teacher, school counselor, or principal. We are all here to help and support you and your children during this exciting time of year. Together, we can ensure every student feels safe, valued, and cared for during the holidays and beyond.
I wish you all Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and a very Happy New Year!
Dr. Bazata
Superintendent
Kewaskum School District
Please take a moment to verify your phone number and email address so you can receive important notifications about school closings, emergencies, and other critical updates. Staying connected ensures you won't miss a thing!
The Wisconsin Department of Instruction released the 2023-24 District Report Cards, and once again the Kewaskum School District achieved the Exceeds Expectations category.
To view all public report cards, visit http://dpi.wi.gov/accountability/report-cards.
KMS and KHS present Mamma Mia! on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Advanced tickets will go on sale Monday, January 6, 2025, at Laatsch's Piggly Wiggly, the KHS Main Office, or online at https://gofan.co/app/school/WI19448.
For more information, view the official poster.
Due to water and sanitary sewer installation, Parkview Drive will be closed on Monday, December 16 from 8:45 am to 5:30 pm, and Tuesday, December 17 from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Please refer to the attached image for alternate routes. If you have questions, contact the Department of Public Work at 262-626-4310.
School closings and late start notifications will appear on the website and app, and will also be sent out via texts, phone calls and emails.
Ensure you stay connected by logging into your Skyward Family Access Account and updating your contact information.
Each month this section will include information on topics discussed at the regular school board meeting. These updates come from unapproved minutes of the meeting.
Recognition
- Mrs. Heipp recognized the KEYS Run for its annual 5K run/walk event. A total of 381 community members participated, and 63 local businesses served as sponsors. The organization raised over $30,000 and plans to award 46 scholarships totaling $220,000 this school year.
- Mrs. Halopka recognized the KHS Key Club for organizing the 2024 Senior Citizens' Thanksgiving Meal. Approximately 40 community members were served by 25 Key Club volunteers and 10 Builders Club volunteers. Additionally, over 10 meals were prepared and delivered to individuals unable to attend. The Kewaskum Kiwanis Club sponsored the meal, and KSD Nutrition Services handled the cooking. Student volunteers set up, decorated, donated homemade desserts, served, and cleaned up.
- Mrs. Skelton recognized the six 8th-grade students who were nominated for the UWM Middle School Honors Band and selected to perform on November 10. Congratulations to Jonas K. (alto sax), Madison R. (alto sax), William G. (tenor sax), Roy B. (bari sax), Cailyn B. (trumpet), and Will A. (trumpet).
Reports
- Ms. Klemme presented the Student Representative Report and provided updates on winter sports, the Key Club Turkey Dinner, the Key Club and NHS Food Drive, and the Spanish Club's adoption of a family for Christmas. Ms. Klemme also discussed the importance of finding balance as teenagers and making time for activities they enjoy.
- Mr. Mayer presented the new Library Plan and provided progress updates on the five main goals.
- Dr. Bazata presented the District Administrator Report, discussing the WASB Convention, National Honor Society inductees, mill rate comparisons with neighboring districts, and information about the upcoming ballot draw, election deadlines, and holiday office hours.
- Mr. Brightman presented the Business Manager Report, providing updates on the state audit of Johnson Bus, donations received, and a new budgeting tool being utilized by the Finance Committee. Mr. Brightman also reminded the Board that the District auditor's report is scheduled to be presented at the January meeting.
- Ms. Heipp and Ms. Petersen presented the Student Learning Report, discussing the recently released District report cards. Results were compared to other districts, overall strengths and areas for improvements were highlighted, and next steps were outlined. The District received an 'Exceeds Expectations' rating on the report card.
- Ms. Heipp presented special education enrollment numbers.
- The Finance & Transportation, Building & Grounds, and Policy & Legislative Committees provided updates from their last meetings.
- Mr. Ramthun provided a legislative update.
- Ms. Bird provided a CESA6 Board of Control update.
Items for Discussion and/or Action
The Board approved the payroll and accounts payable reports, the 2025/2026 District Academic Calendar, 2025/26 school year course proposals, school safety drills, and an overnight/out of state field trip for the KHS Wrestling team, as well as a purchase over $7,500.
Policy
Updated policies were approved by the Board and Mr. Petersen presented first readings on behalf of the Policy Committee.
