KEWASKUM DISTRICT NEWS
We have been discussing the Kewaskum Difference the past two months, which is:
We COMPETE in a global society by offering dual credit and college/career readiness.
We educate the WHOLE child by involving the community.
We have that SMALL TOWN FEEL with personal attention.
Last month, we explored how we educate the whole child by involving the community. This month, I would like to focus on the last element, “We have that SMALL TOWN FEEL with personal attention.”
Having a sense of connection and community that comes with being in a close-knit district is invaluable in today’s fast-paced, interconnected world. We strive to give each student the personal attention they deserve, nurturing their unique talents, addressing their individual needs, and ensuring they feel seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.
So, what does this look like in our everyday practice? It begins with our dedicated staff who build meaningful, lasting relationships with students and families. They take the time to get to know each student as an individual—learning their strengths, interests, challenges, and aspirations. This personalized care extends beyond academics to support students' social and emotional well-being as well.
In our schools, teachers create close-knit classroom communities where students support one another in learning. But it doesn’t stop with teachers alone. Parents, coaches, school counselors, and support staff all play a role in ensuring that our students have the resources, encouragement, and support they need to succeed. We also have many staff who work “behind the scenes” that play a pivotal role in supporting students and staff including our food service, buildings and grounds, and IT staff. Whether it’s the one-on-one guidance offered during college and career counseling sessions, the support provided by athletic and club advisors, or the encouragement from parents who volunteer their time—this collective effort makes a world of difference for our students.
Having a small town feel with personal attention allows us to respond quickly and effectively to students’ changing needs. We work to offer tailored solutions and provide the right resources and interventions for students and families. This flexibility and commitment to personal attention make our district not only a place of academic learning but also a nurturing home where each child can grow and thrive.
Thank you for being part of this close-knit community. It’s your support, engagement, and trust that make our school district a special place where every student matters and every success is celebrated. Together, we will continue to honor our small town roots while preparing our students for their diverse and promising futures.
Dr. Bazata
Superintendent
Kewaskum School District
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.
Tabs can be dropped off at KMS. The drive will run from November 1 to March 31.
On Saturday, November 16, 2024, the KHS Key Club, in partnership with the Kewaskum Kiwanis, will host the annual Senior Citizens' Thanksgiving Meal. This free event is open to all local senior citizens - no reservations needed! Join us for a delicious Thanksgiving meal served from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm in the High School Cafeteria.
View the flyer for more information.
Free Parent Education Support Groups
The Community Counseling Program Therapist from Youth and Family Project, will be offering free parent education support groups. Registration is required.
- 11/20/24: Parenting Youth with Depression registration link
- 12/4/24: Co-Parenting after Divorce registration link
- 12/18/24: Setting Foundations for Mental Health Success registration link
Farmington and Kewaskum Elementary Schools are once again sponsoring the Giving Tree. They will be collecting new toys from Monday, November 25, through Friday, December 13. Please drop off unwrapped gifts at the school office for children ages birth to 18.
For more information, view the poster by following this link.
The 9th Annual Kewaskum Chamber of Commerce Cookie Hunt is happening on December 8 from 1-4pm.
Start at the Kewaskum Annex Building, pick up your cookie box, visit local businesses to fill your passport and cookie box, and don’t forget to enter the exciting pop-up raffles along the way!
View the flyer for more 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
- Mr. Halopka recognized Academic All-State recipients in football (Jordin Fuentes De Rehm, Andrew Reichert), and girls' golf (Taylor Keller, Hailee Koth, Nadia Newman).
- Mr. Peterson highlighted Olivia Gerhartz for her cross country achievements. Olivia was named Academic All-State, qualified for State, and set a new school record in the 5K.
- Josh Michig was honored for being invited to conduct the percussion section of the State Honors Band in October at the State Music Educators Convention in Madison.
- Ms. Heipp and Ms. Petersen announced that the district was awarded the Peer Review Mentor Grant in the amount of $24,000.
- Ms. Heipp recognized Kewaskum High School as a bronze recipient of the 2024 AP School Honor Roll.
Reports
- Dr. Bazata presented the District Administrator Report, reviewing election timeline and requirements, sharing information regarding the State Education Convention, and providing a preview of the December board meeting.
- Mr. Brightman presented the Business Manager Report, detailing a new budgeting tool for the 25/26 school year and sharing a draft budget calendar.
- Ms. Heipp and Ms. Petersen shared the State Assessment Data Report, which included updates on the Forward Exam changes and results from the Forward Exam, preACT, and ACT. Comparisons were made with state averages and neighboring districts, and next steps were outlined.
- The Finance and Transportation, Building and Grounds, and Policy Committees provided updates from their last meetings.
- Ms. Klemme and Ms. Rettler presented their Student Representative Report and highlighted athletic accomplishments, winter sports, the Veterans Day assembly, and their plan to meet with Administration to improve the student body's understanding of the grading system.
Items for Discussion and/or Action
The Board approved the payroll and accounts payable reports, overnight/out of state field trips for the FFA, Girls Softball team, and KHS music students, the KSD Branding Guide, as well as purchases over $7,500 and a credit line for cash flow purposes.
Policy
Mr. Petersen presented first readings of Neola policy updates on behalf of the Policy Committee.
