WAPS community rallies against controversial school reconfiguration proposal amid rising tensions

The Winona Area Public Schools (WAPS) School Board meeting on December 19, 2024, centered around a contentious proposal for school reconfiguration that has sparked significant community opposition. Parents, teachers, and community members voiced their concerns, emphasizing a consistent message against the plan that has resurfaced multiple times over the years.

During the meeting, several speakers highlighted the community's longstanding resistance to the reconfiguration, citing previous task forces, surveys, and listening sessions that have all yielded similar feedback: families do not support the proposed changes. One educator expressed deep concern that the reconfiguration could undermine the positive culture established at Goodview Elementary, where students have excelled academically and a strong sense of community has flourished. The speaker urged the board to reconsider the plan, advocating for a focus on building upon existing successes rather than risking division within the district.

Ted Hazleton, a WAPS graduate and parent, echoed these sentiments, calling for a pause on the proposal due to the numerous unknowns surrounding its financial implications and logistical challenges. He pointed out that estimates for necessary upgrades could range from $3.5 million to $4 million, raising questions about the feasibility and impact on busing routes. Hazleton urged the board to conduct a more thorough study before making any decisions.

Another parent, Brittany, expressed frustration over the limited time given to discuss concerns during previous listening sessions. She emphasized the importance of genuinely considering community feedback, noting that a significant majority of parents and guardians oppose the current proposal. Brittany conveyed her family's anxiety about the future of their children's education, stating that if their voices are not heard, they may seek alternatives outside the WAPS system.

The meeting underscored a palpable sense of frustration among community members regarding the decision-making process and the perceived lack of responsiveness from school leadership. As the board considers the next steps, the overwhelming sentiment remains clear: many in the community are calling for a reevaluation of the proposed reconfiguration to ensure that it aligns with the values and needs of families within the district.