Watertown Area Public Schools public meetings in 2023
78 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Monthly Board Meeting - REVISED
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on December 18, 2023, at the Educational Service Center. The board will consider accepting donations totaling $40,000 from the William and Cathy Kwapil Foundation, approve new or changed course offerings for 2024-25, and adopt the certified staff calendar. It will also act on a consent agenda that includes personnel changes and bill approvals, and may enter closed session to discuss the superintendent's contract renewal.
- Accept $15,000 for WHS Art Department and $25,000 for SkillsUSA from William and Cathy Kwapil Foundation
- Approve new RMS Makerspace course for 2024-25
- Approve removing dual credit option from WHS Elementary Algebra for 2024-25
- Approve 2024-25 Certified Staff Calendar
- Consent agenda includes staff retirements, resignations, and appointments
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Fiscal Management Committee is meeting to discuss and receive information on ESSER fund recommendations, a phone system upgrade, and its planning calendar. The committee will also review monthly financial reports, including check listings and credit card details. A closed session is planned to discuss facilities master planning and financial auditing services RFPs.
- ESSER III unallocated funds recommendations
- Phone upgrade proposal with cost estimate
- Monthly financial reports: check listing, credit card details, fund variances
- Facilities master planning RFP update (closed session)
- Financial auditing services RFP update (closed session)
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is meeting in closed session to discuss the superintendent's quarterly performance evaluation (DAPES) and related employment matters. The meeting is authorized under Wisconsin statutes for personnel and bargaining discussions. No public action is expected beyond convening and adjourning.
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) for employee performance evaluation
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e) for property purchase or public funds investment
- Quarterly DAPES discussion with superintendent
- Meeting at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Human Resources Committee will meet to discuss the negotiations process for the 2024-25 period. The committee will also receive information regarding range adjustments for CPI increases and a rounding summary.
- Information item regarding range adjustments for CPI increase
- Discussion regarding the 2024-25 negotiations process
- Review of the Fall 2023 rounding summary
Policy Review Committee Meeting
The Policy Review Committee will discuss several district policies, including those regarding the Neola policy process. The committee is also scheduled to review procedures for student retention through the 8th grade and extracurricular activities.
- Discussion of Neola Policy Process
- Review of Policy 5230 Retention and 5230.1 Procedures for Retention of Students Through the 8th Grade
- Review of Policy 5231 Fourth and Eighth Grade Promotion
- Discussion of Policy 5330 Extracurricular Activities
- Discussion regarding sponsored policies in the queue
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and receive information on several educational topics. These include a director's update on 4K planning, the 6-12 science adoption process, and Act 20, as well as course approvals for a middle school makerspace and high school math adoption. The committee will also discuss a Chromebook survey and Future Ready Plan, and a summer school study review committee proposal.
- 2024-2025 4K planning update
- 6-12 science adoption process
- RMS course approval for Makerspace
- WHS math adoption review and course approval
- Chromebook survey/plan and Future Ready Plan
Sub Committee of Policy Review Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Sub Committee of the Policy Review Committee will meet to discuss and work on Policy 5330 regarding extracurricular activities. The meeting includes a review of the WHS Co Curricular Handbook and the RMS Student Activities Brochure.
- Discussion and policy work on 5330 Extracurricular Activities
- Review of WHS Co Curricular Handbook
- Review of RMS Student Activities Brochure
Regular Monthly Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on November 27, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown, with a virtual option via Zoom. The board will consider action items including a 6% CPI adjustment for non-represented employees and a 6% base wage increase for certified staff under a new collective bargaining agreement, as well as approve a Spanish trip to Panama and Colombia for June 2025 at no cost to the district. The agenda also includes public input, committee reports, and a consent agenda with personnel changes and bill approvals.
- Resolution #9257: 6% CPI wage increase for non-represented employees (2023-24)
- Resolution #9258: 6% base wage increase for certified staff (ULE bargaining unit)
- Resolution #9259: Approval of June 10-20, 2025 Spanish trip to Panama and Colombia, no cost to WUSD
- Consent agenda includes staff retirements, resignations, and appointments (e.g., Mary Judkins as Speech & Language Pathologist)
- YMCA campaign update by CEO Jon Lange and summer school programming discussion
PUBLIC NOTICE OF GATHERING - WUSD Board Data Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is gathering for a data meeting on November 15, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown. The board will not conduct any governmental business or take formal action, but will review and discuss early literacy data and state report card data. The meeting is open to the public.
- Review and understand early literacy data (November 2023 - BOE Data.pdf)
- Review and understand state report card data (November 2023 - Summary.pdf)
- Meeting is a public notice of gathering; no formal action will be taken
- Next meeting date: Tuesday, February 21, 2024
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Management Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss buildings and grounds projects, five-year budget projections, and updates on ESSER (federal COVID relief) funds. They will also review monthly financial reports and set their planning calendar. The meeting is open to the public with both in-person and virtual options.
- Buildings & Grounds Projects Update
- Five Year Budget Projections
- ESSER II and ESSER III updates
- Monthly reports: check listing, credit card details, fund variances
- Next meeting set for December 13, 2023
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Human Resources Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to exchange initial 2023-24 bargaining proposals with the Watertown ULE, review staff appointments and resignations, and discuss the draft 2024-25 school calendar. The committee will also enter closed sessions to discuss negotiations, substitute staffing, and CPI for non-represented staff.
- Exchange of initial 2023-24 bargaining proposal with Watertown ULE
- Review of staff appointments, resignations, and terminations (Resolution 11-20-23)
- Preview draft 2024-25 calendar (discussion only)
- Closed session: negotiations, substitute staffing proposal, CPI for non-represented staff
Sub Committee of Policy Review Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education's Policy Review Sub Committee will meet to discuss and work on Policy 5330 regarding extracurricular activities. The meeting is scheduled for Friday, November 10, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. in the Superintendent's Office at the Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown, with a virtual option via Zoom. The agenda includes a discussion of the policy and related handbooks, and the next full Policy Committee meeting is set for December 6, 2023.
- Discussion and policy work on Policy 5330 Extracurricular Activities
- Review of WHS Co-Curricular Handbook and RMS Student Activities Brochure
- Review of revised Policy 5330 and related policies (5331 Athletics, NEOLA 2430, 2430.01, 2431)
- Next full Policy Committee meeting scheduled for December 6, 2023, at 5:30 p.m.
Special Board Meeting - CANCELLED
This special board meeting of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education, originally scheduled for November 9, 2023, has been cancelled. The agenda would have included a closed session for a student expulsion hearing and possible board action on the expulsion.
- Meeting cancelled
- Closed session for expulsion hearing of Student 'A'
- Possible board action on student expulsion
Planning Committee Meeting
The Planning Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and receive information on board retreat and development planning, the superintendent evaluation process, and setting future planning dates. The meeting is open to the public with virtual attendance options.
- Discussion of board retreat and board development planning
- Review of superintendent evaluation process
- Setting future planning dates
- Next meeting scheduled for January 10, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee will meet to discuss several educational updates, including English Learner (ELL) data, Act 20 implementation, summer school plans, and restorative practices. They will also hear a presentation on the eCampus/Pathways Academy and discuss proposed new courses for the 2024-2025 school year at Watertown High School.
- Director Update: ELL Data, Act 20, Summer School, Restorative Practices
- Presentation: eCampus/Pathways Academy Update with cost breakdown
- Discussion: WHS 2024-2025 Coursebook Proposals including Farm to Table and Hydroponics courses
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is meeting in closed session to conduct expulsion hearings for two students, identified only as Student A and Student B. The board will also consider findings of fact, conclusions, and orders for each case. The meeting is largely procedural and closed to the public, with no other business on the agenda.
- Closed session for expulsion hearing of Student A at 5:00 p.m.
- Closed session for expulsion hearing of Student B at 7:30 p.m.
- Reconvene to open session to issue findings and orders for each student
- Meeting held at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet in closed session to conduct an expulsion hearing for Student "A". The board will also consider findings of fact and possible action regarding the expulsion.
- Expulsion hearing of Student "A"
- Possible Board action on student expulsion
PUBLIC NOTICE OF GATHERING - WUSD Board Retreat
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold a retreat on October 25, 2023. The board will discuss board performance, roles, and responsibilities, but will not conduct governmental business or take formal action.
- Introduction of Drew Howick of Howick Associates
- Discussion on high performing board characteristics
- Creation of draft collective commitments
- Review of roles and responsibilities of the Board and Administration
Special Board Meeting - Budget Hearing Notice
The Board of Education will hold a special meeting to conduct a budget hearing. Director of Business Services Sarah Duncan will provide an overview of the 2023-24 budget for public discussion.
- Public hearing regarding the 2023-24 budget
- Budget overview presentation by Sarah Duncan
Budget Hearing and Regular Monthly Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold a budget hearing followed by a regular meeting. The board is expected to adopt the 2023-24 budget and certify a $20,405,333 tax levy, and will also consider purchasing advanced learning materials. Other agenda items include updates on the Endeavor Charter School, safety drills, and a proposed change from dual language to world language at the high school.
- Resolution #9254: Adopt 2023-24 budget and levy $20,405,333 in property taxes
- Resolution #9255: Approve up to $22,000 for advanced learning materials from ESSER III funds
- Consent agenda includes personnel changes (resignations, appointments) and approval of bills
- Second reading of six policies, including Title IX and student discrimination procedures
- Discussion on changing from dual language to world language at Watertown High School
PUBLIC NOTICE OF GATHERING - WUSD Board Data Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is gathering for a data meeting on October 18, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center (111 Dodge Street, Watertown). The board will not conduct governmental business or take formal action; the agenda includes reviewing and understanding Fresh STAR data, longitudinal cohort data, and ESC goal setting. The meeting is informational and discussion-only, with no votes or decisions expected.
- Review and understand Fresh STAR data (discussion/information)
- Review and understand longitudinal cohort data (discussion/information)
- Review and understand ESC goal setting (discussion/information)
- Meeting is a public notice of gathering; no formal action will be taken
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Management Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss the 2023-24 budget, facilities master planning, and the committee's planning calendar. They will also review monthly financial reports, including check listings and credit card details. The meeting is open to the public with virtual attendance options.
- Discussion of 2023-24 Budget Adoption Format and Final Budget Notes
- Facilities Master Planning discussion
- Review of monthly reports: Check Listing, Credit Card Detail, Fund 10 and Fund 27 Variances
- Planning calendar for Fiscal Committee
- Next meeting scheduled for November 15, 2023
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Human Resources Committee will review staff appointments, resignations, and terminations. The committee will also discuss the master teacher training platform and receive an update on the support staff salary review project.
- Review of staff appointments, resignations, and terminations
- Master Teacher Training Platform overview
- Health insurance renewal review
- Support staff salary review project status update
Special Board Meeting
The Board of Education will meet in a closed session to discuss personnel and business matters. This includes the Superintendent's quarterly evaluation and other topics permitted under Wisconsin State Statute.
- Superintendent's Quarterly Evaluation
- Closed session regarding employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation
- Closed session regarding purchasing of public property or investing of public funds
Policy Review Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Policy Review Committee will meet to discuss several proposed policy updates, including student retention procedures, personal electronic device possession, student dress code, and extracurricular activities. No new or major policy revisions are on the agenda. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.
- Discussion of Policy 5230 (Retention) and 5230.1 (Procedures for Retention of Students Through the 8th Grade)
- Discussion of Policy 5315 (Possession of a Personal Electronic Device)
- Discussion of Policy 5320 (Student Dress Code)
- Discussion of Policy 5330 (Extracurricular Activities)
- Next meeting scheduled for December 6, 2023
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee will meet to review various district updates and presentations. Discussions include student testimonials for eCampus/Pathways Academy and a budget proposal for Advanced Learners.
- Advanced Learner update and budget proposal discussion
- eCampus/Pathways Academy update presentation
- Dual Language/World Language presentation for WHS
- Summer School review and planning presentation
- Director updates on 4K Pyramid and Panorama implementation
Regular Monthly Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting, including a vote on the 66.0301 agreement with the Hustisford School District for 2023-2024. The board will also hear a preliminary budget presentation, discuss policy recommendation processes, and receive reports from committees. The consent agenda includes approval of personnel changes, bills, and first/second readings of multiple policies.
- Resolution #9252: Approve 66.0301 Agreement with Hustisford School District for 2023-2024
- Preliminary Budget Presentation (discussion)
- Consent agenda: 5 staff retirements, 5 resignations, 3 certified and 20 non-certified appointments, plus 2 coaching appointments
- First reading of 7 policies including Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy and Extracurricular Activities
- Second reading of 6 policies including Athletics and Purchasing Approval and Oversight
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Management Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss the 2023-24 preliminary budget, a shared-services agreement with Hustisford School District, and a potential property sale in closed session. The committee will also review monthly financial reports and a purchase for a new UTV for the maintenance department.
- 66.0301 Agreement with Hustisford School District for a shared vision and mobility specialist
- Purchase of a new UTV for the maintenance department (no purchases over $20,000 this month)
- 2023-24 Preliminary Budget discussion
- Contemplated closed session for potential sale of property
- Monthly reports including check listing, credit card details, and fund variances
RESCHEDULED - Planning Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education's Planning Committee will meet on September 19, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center (111 Dodge Street, Watertown), with a virtual option via Zoom. The agenda includes updates on the board retreat, discussion on the structure of future planning committee meetings, and calendar planning, including setting dates for superintendent quarterly evaluations and data meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for November 8, 2023, at 5:30 p.m.
- Board Retreat Update by Lori Holland and Tina Johnson
- Discussion on structure of future Planning Committee meetings
- Calendar discussion: setting dates for superintendent quarterly evaluations and data meetings
- Next meeting: Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Human Resources Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to review the consent agenda for staff appointments, resignations, and terminations, receive updates on the Employee Wellness Committee and staffing, and plan future meetings. The meeting is open to the public with virtual attendance options.
- Consent agenda: review of staff appointments, resignations, and terminations
- Employee Wellness Committee update
- Staffing update
- Future meeting planning
- Next meeting scheduled for October 16, 2023
CANCELLED - Planning Committee Meeting
This Planning Committee meeting of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education was cancelled. The agenda would have included updates on the board retreat, discussion of future meeting structure, and calendar planning.
- Meeting cancelled
- Board retreat update
- Discussion on structure of future Planning Committee meetings
- Calendar discussion including Superintendent quarterly evaluation dates
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet on September 12, 2023, to discuss and receive information on several educational topics. The agenda includes a director's update covering start-of-year activities, the Advanced Learner Plan, math professional development, paraprofessional training, and Chromebook distribution. Presentations will be given on the Extended Learning Time update and the AVID school-wide update. The next meeting is scheduled for October 10, 2023.
- Director Update: Start of Year, Advanced Learner Plan, Math PD, Paraprofessional Training, Chromebook Distribution
- Presentation: Extended Learning Time Update (ELT Ed Services WHS ELT September 2023.pdf)
- Presentation: AVID School-wide Update (Ed Services - September 2023-AVID.pdf)
- Next meeting date: Tuesday, October 10, 2023
Regular Monthly Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on August 28, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown, with a virtual option via Zoom. The board will consider action items including a transportation contract with D&H Enterprises, Inc., the hiring of a Communications Specialist funded by ESSER III, and a Neola license agreement for policy services. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, committee summaries, personnel changes, bills, and policy readings.
- Resolution 9245: Authorize transportation contract with D&H Enterprises, Inc. — regular routes at $5.38 per certified mile, extracurricular trips at $1.32 per mile, driver time at $22.29/hour after first hour, contract through July 31, 2028
- Resolution 9244: Approve hiring a Communications Specialist with ESSER III funding for 2023-24 school year
- Resolution 9243: Enter into Neola license agreement for policy and handbook services
- Consent agenda includes personnel actions: retirements, resignations, appointments (e.g., Jennifer Berwanger as Interim Principal at Schurz Elementary), and 16 extra-curricular coaching appointments
- First reading of policies 3312 (Purchasing), 5331 (Athletics), 5332 (Creatine), 5345 (Early College Credit), 5350 (Work Based Learning), 5360 (Equal Educational Opportunities); second reading of policies 5316, 5317, 5322, 5329, 5330.1
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Management Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss financial matters, including a potential property sale, a purchase over $20,000, and a transportation contract. The committee will also review purchasing policy and monthly financial reports. A closed session is planned to discuss the potential sale of the Allwardt Street property.
- Closed session to discuss potential sale of Allwardt Street property
- Proposed purchase over $20,000 for SchoolsPLP license renewal
- Review of D&H Enterprises Inc. contract for special education transportation 2023-24
- Discussion of Policy 3310 - Purchasing Authority with proposed additional language
- Monthly financial reports including check listing, fund variances, and credit card details
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Human Resources Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet on August 21, 2023, to discuss several HR matters. The agenda includes a consent agenda for staff appointments, resignations, and terminations, a health and dental insurance plan performance update, staff attendance expectations, start-of-school-year activities, a staffing update, and future meeting planning. The meeting is open to the public with virtual attendance options.
- Consent agenda: review of staff appointments, resignations, and terminations
- Health and dental insurance plan performance update
- Discussion on staff attendance expectations
- Start of school year activities review
- Staffing update
Policy Review Committee Meeting
The Policy Review Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and review several school policies, including student retention, personal electronic device possession, dress code, and records retention. They will also follow up on discussions regarding Neola and consider a new/major revision to the extracurricular activities policy. The meeting is open to the public with virtual attendance options.
- Discussion of Policy 5230 (Retention) and 5230.1 (Procedures for Retention of Students Through the 8th Grade)
- Discussion of Policy 5315 (Possession of a Personal Electronic Device)
- Discussion of Policy 5320 (Student Dress Code)
- Discussion of Records Retention Schedule
- Review of Policy 5330 (Extracurricular Activities) as new/major revision
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee will meet to discuss and receive information on several educational programs, including a director update covering coordinator positions, online registration, migrant education, 4K, Title I monitoring, and a Chromebook program. They will also discuss a Panorama update and a proposed 6th grade elective course at RMS. The next meeting is scheduled for September 12, 2023.
- Discussion of RMS 6th grade elective course proposal
- Panorama update discussion
- Director update on coordinator positions, Skyward online registration, migrant education, 4K, Title I monitoring, and Chromebook program
- Next meeting set for September 12, 2023
PUBLIC NOTICE OF GATHERING - WUSD Board Data Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is gathering for a Board Data Meeting on August 2, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown. The board will not conduct governmental business or take formal action; the agenda includes discussions around data, assessment, and action planning, followed by adjournment.
- Discussion on data, assessment, and action planning
- Meeting at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
- No formal action or governmental business to be conducted
Regular Monthly Board Meeting - REVISED
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting, with action items including approval of a Chromebook purchase and a transfer of up to $500,000 into the Long-Term Capital Improvement Trust Fund. The board will also discuss the seclusion and restraint update, a communications audit, and a possible AP Calculus BC course, and will consider a proposal for the 2026 Gosling Marching Band trip to Dublin, Ireland.
- Resolution #9240: Approve bid from Insight for Chromebooks and licenses
- Resolution #9241: Transfer up to $500,000 to Fund 46 Long-Term Capital Improvement Trust Fund
- First reading of policies on drug paraphernalia, breath tests, student demonstrations, co-curricular programs
- Second reading of policies on Title I, nutrition services, student searches, and electronic devices
- Personnel actions: resignations and appointments of teachers and staff
PUBLIC NOTICE OF GATHERING - WUSD Board Retreat
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is gathering for a retreat on July 19, 2023, at the Educational Service Center. The notice states that no governmental business will be conducted and no formal action will be taken during this meeting.
- Board retreat at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
- No formal action or governmental business planned
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Management Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss financial items, including a proposed purchase of student and staff Chromebooks exceeding $20,000, payment reports, fiscal year-end variance reports, and a policy on purchasing authority. The meeting is informational and discussion-focused, with no final decisions listed on the agenda.
- Proposed purchase of student and staff Chromebooks over $20,000 with bids from CDW, GCI, and Insight
- Payment report including check listing and credit card details for June 2023
- Fiscal year-end variance reports for Funds 10 and 27 as of June 30, 2023
- Review of Board Policy 3310 - Purchasing Authority
- Draft fiscal planning calendar for the committee
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Human Resources Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss employee satisfaction survey results, review staff appointments, resignations, and terminations, and consider the administrator performance evaluation process. The meeting is open to the public with virtual attendance options.
- Review of 2023 WUSD Staff Survey results and comment analysis
- Consent agenda: staff appointments, resignations, and terminations (Resolution 7-24-23)
- Discussion of administrator performance evaluation process
- Future meeting planning for HR Committee
Planning Committee Meeting
The Planning Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss a communication audit review, brainstorm topics for the 2023-24 school year, and consider ideas for a board retreat. The meeting is informational and discussion-focused, with no formal votes or decisions listed on the agenda.
- Communication Audit Review Presentation and discussion
- Topical agenda brainstorming for 2023-24 school year
- Board retreat ideas and suggestions
- Next meeting set for September 13, 2023
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District's Educational Services Committee will meet to discuss and receive information on several educational initiatives. Items include a presentation on using ESSER funds for a K-12 Panorama purchase, a discussion on a proposed STEM academy at Roosevelt Middle School, and a discussion on a Chromebook take-home model for RMS and WHS. The meeting is informational and discussion-focused, with no formal votes listed.
- Presentation: ESSER Update - K-12 Panorama Purchase
- Discussion: RMS STEM Academy Proposal
- Discussion: RMS/WHS Chromebook Take-home Model
- Welcome of Jason Bull as Director of Innovation, Technology, Strategy and Data
- Next meeting scheduled for August 8, 2023
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is holding a special meeting on July 5, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will immediately go into closed session to discuss the superintendent's quarterly evaluation, as permitted by Wisconsin state law. No public action is expected beyond the procedural items.
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) for employment/performance data
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e) for purchasing/investing negotiations
- Superintendent's quarterly evaluation discussion
- Meeting at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is holding a special meeting on June 28, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will go into closed session to discuss the superintendent's quarterly evaluation, citing Wisconsin statutes for employment performance and potential bargaining reasons. No other substantive business is on the agenda.
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) for employment performance data
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e) for purchasing or bargaining reasons
- Superintendent's quarterly evaluation discussion
- Meeting at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
Regular Monthly Board Meeting - REVISED
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on June 26, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown, with a virtual option via Zoom. The board will discuss strategic updates on athletics, dual language programs, and the Achievement Gap Reduction final report, and will vote on several action items including the 2023-24 preliminary budget, CESA contracts, and furniture purchases. The consent agenda includes personnel changes, bill approvals, and first readings of multiple policies.
- Resolution #9237: Approve 2023-24 Preliminary Budget
- Resolution #9235: Approve 2023-24 CESA 1 contract ($2,000)
- Resolution #9236: Approve 2023-24 CESA 2 contract ($4,075.05 membership, $750 attorney, ~$36,839 audiology)
- Resolution #9238: Approve furniture purchase up to $150,000 using ESSER funds
- First reading of policies on student searches, drug/alcohol discipline, and electronic device possession
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Management Committee will discuss and review financial items including a payment report, variance report, CESA contracts, a $150,000 ESSER furniture purchase proposal, a $54,986 copier paper purchase, district project updates, and the preliminary 2023-24 budget. These are discussion items, not final decisions.
- Payment report and credit card details for May 2023
- Variance reports for Funds 10 and 27 as of May 31, 2023
- Annual contracts with CESA 1 and CESA 2 for 2023-24
- Proposed $150,000 ESSER III furniture purchase for building needs
- Copier paper purchase for the district: $54,986
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Human Resources Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to review staff appointments, resignations, and terminations, approve summer school staff, and discuss updates on support staff compensation and employee handbooks. The committee will also enter a closed session to consider individual salary requests from certified staff and other personnel matters.
- Consent agenda: review of staff appointments, resignations, and terminations
- Summer school staff resolution
- Support staff compensation proposal update
- Employee handbooks updates
- Closed session for individual salary requests from certified staff
Special Board Meeting - REVISED
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is holding a special meeting on June 19, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center (111 Dodge Street, Watertown). The agenda consists of procedural items (call to order, pledge, roll call) and a contemplated closed session to discuss the superintendent's quarterly evaluation, citing Wisconsin statutes for closed sessions on employee performance and public business. The meeting will reconvene to open session and adjourn.
- Closed session for superintendent's quarterly evaluation
- Closed session authorized under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) and (e)
- Meeting at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
- Notice published in Watertown Daily Times
Policy Review Committee Meeting - REVISED
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education's Policy Review Committee will meet on June 14, 2023, to discuss and review multiple school policies. The agenda includes presentations on policy review processes, discussions on new or major revisions (e.g., Title I parent engagement, extracurricular activities), and minor revisions (e.g., student searches, drug/alcohol use, electronic devices). No final decisions are listed; the meeting is for discussion and information.
- Discussion of new operational procedure for minor revisions
- Review of policies 5230 (retention) and 5230.1 (retention through 8th grade)
- Review of graduation policies 5240 and 5240.1
- New/major revisions: Title I parent engagement (6235) and extracurricular activities (5330)
- Minor revisions: student searches (5312.1-5312.4), drug/alcohol use (5314, 5314.1), electronic devices (5315)
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss its function and form for the 2023-2024 school year and preview a draft topic calendar. The meeting is informational and discussion-focused, with no votes or decisions listed. The next meeting is scheduled for July 11, 2023.
- Discussion of 2023-2024 Ed Services Committee function and form
- Preview of draft 2023-2024 topic calendar (52 KB attachment)
- Next meeting set for Tuesday, July 11, 2023
PUBLIC NOTICE OF GATHERING
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education and district officials will attend the Class of 2023 Watertown High School graduation ceremony. The board will not conduct any governmental business or take formal action during this gathering.
- Attendance at graduation ceremony on June 10, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.
- Location: Watertown High School, 825 Endeavor Drive, Watertown
- No governmental business or formal action planned
Regular Monthly Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting, primarily to recognize 22 retiring staff members through individual resolutions. The agenda also includes procedural items like call to order, pledge, roll call, and public input periods.
- Resolution #9201 for Pamela DeRosier (34 years of service)
- Resolution #9202 for Debra Doubet (38 years of service)
- Resolution #9203 for Deborah Fischer (35 years of service)
- Resolution #9204 for Tammy Foerster (34 years of service)
- Resolution #9205 for Teresa Gimler (30 years of service)
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Management Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and review several financial and operational items, including a proposed increase in property insurance coverage due to rising construction costs, proposed student and facility use fees for 2023-24, and updates on various facility projects. The committee will also review payment and variance reports. This is a discussion and information meeting, not a final decision-making body.
- Proposed increase in property insurance coverage due to rising construction costs
- Proposed 2023-24 student and facility use fees, including meal prices
- Managed print services consolidation and upgrade proposal
- Douglas and Schurz AC project cost update
- Dust collector proposal and pool update
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Human Resources Committee will meet to review staff appointments, resignations, and terminations; approve summer school staff; and consider a support staff compensation proposal. The committee will also discuss future meeting planning and may enter closed session to discuss employee performance and a retirement agreement.
- Consent agenda: staff appointments, resignations, terminations
- Summer school staff resolution
- Support staff notice of employment
- Support staff compensation proposal (CDC Proposal 4.20.23)
- Closed session for employee performance and retirement agreement
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education held a special meeting, entering closed session to conduct an expulsion hearing for a student identified as "Student A." The board reconvened in open session and voted to take action on the expulsion, with one member voting no. The meeting was otherwise procedural, including roll call and adjournment.
- Closed session under Wisconsin statutes 19.85(1)(f) and (a) for expulsion hearing
- Expulsion hearing of Student "A"
- Board action on student expulsion passed 6-1, with Tina Johnson voting no
- Motion to enter closed session carried unanimously
- Meeting held at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
Planning Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Planning Committee will meet to discuss a communications audit update and plan for the 2023-24 school year. The meeting is informational and includes no votes or decisions.
- Communications audit update presented by Dorreen Dembski
- Planning for 2023-24 school year
- Next meeting scheduled for July 12, 2023
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and receive information on the AVID program update and follow-up on the Advanced Learner Program. The meeting is open to the public with virtual attendance options.
- AVID Program Update (discussion/information)
- Advanced Learner Program - Board Discussion Follow Up (discussion/information)
- Next meeting date: Tuesday, June 13, 2023
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is holding a special meeting on May 3, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center (111 Dodge Street, Watertown). The board will enter closed session to conduct the superintendent's quarterly evaluation, citing Wisconsin statutes for confidential employment discussions. The meeting will reconvene in open session only to adjourn.
- Closed session for superintendent's quarterly evaluation
- Meeting held at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
- Notice published in Watertown Daily Times
- Reconvene to open session and adjourn
Policy Review Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education's Policy Review Committee will meet to discuss and review multiple school policies, including a new or major revision to class size and grading systems, as well as minor revisions to student records, honor roll, and student conduct rules. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.
- Discussion of Policy 5330 Extracurricular Activities
- New/major revisions to Policy 5105 Class Size and Policy 5220 Grading Systems and Reporting to Parents
- Minor revisions to policies on Honor Roll, Student Records, Start College Now, Code of Classroom Conduct, Suspension and Expulsion Procedures, Student Conduct on School Buses, and Bus Rider Rules
- Next meeting scheduled for June 14, 2023
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and receive information on three items: the Advanced Learner Program audit report, a K-12 math curriculum adoption recommendation, and an AVID program implementation update. No votes are listed on the agenda; items are for discussion and information.
- Advanced Learner Program Review - Auditor's Report
- K-12 Math Adoption Curriculum Review - Committee Recommendation
- Elementary Math Materials Adoption and Secondary Math Curriculum Adoption presentations
- AVID Program Strategies - RMS and WHS Schoolwide Implementation Update
- Next meeting set for Tuesday, May 9, 2023
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is holding a special meeting on April 5, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center. The board will enter closed session to conduct the superintendent's quarterly evaluation, citing Wisconsin statutes for employee performance and public business discussions. The meeting will reconvene to open session only to adjourn.
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) for superintendent's quarterly evaluation
- Closed session also cited under 19.85(1)(e) for public property or fund negotiations
- Meeting at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
- Notice published in Watertown Daily Times
Special Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education held a special meeting on March 21, 2023, primarily in closed session to conduct an expulsion hearing for a student. The board voted unanimously to enter closed session, hear the case, reconvene in open session, and take action on the expulsion. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other business items listed.
- Closed session under Wisconsin statutes 19.85(1)(f) and (a) for personnel/student matters
- Expulsion hearing of Student 'A' held in closed session
- Board voted unanimously to take action on student expulsion
- Meeting held at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Watertown Area Public Schools Fiscal Management Committee is meeting to discuss routine financial matters, including payment reports, budget variances, and expenditures over $20,000. They will also review the district's financial forecast, interest rates on bank accounts, and updates on buildings and grounds projects. The agenda includes discussion items but no final decisions are listed.
- Review of payment report including February Amazon purchases and credit card details
- Discussion of expenditures over $20,000, including USI Client Service Agreement and Laser CNC Table for Tech Ed
- Financial forecast review
- Discussion of interest rates for district bank accounts
- Update on buildings and grounds projects
Planning Committee Meeting
The Planning Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is meeting to discuss and review a communications audit presented by Dorreen Dembski. The agenda includes only this discussion item, along with routine administrative matters such as member attendance and setting the next meeting date.
- Discussion of Dorreen Dembski Communications Audit
- Next meeting scheduled for May 10, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District's Educational Services Committee will meet to discuss and receive information on several agenda items, including ESSER (COVID relief) fund updates, a social-emotional learning curriculum renewal, a network infrastructure proposal/technology plan, and a preliminary 1:1 Chromebook planning discussion for the 2023-24 school year. The committee will also discuss the eCampus Academy international program and potential partnership agreements. The next meeting is scheduled for April 11, 2023.
- ESSER Updates (discussion/information)
- Second Step - Social Emotional Learning Curriculum Renewal
- Network Infrastructure Proposal/Technology Plan
- Preliminary 1:1 Chromebook planning discussion for 2023-24
- eCampus Academy - International Program Discussion (partnership agreements)
Regular Monthly Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting, covering routine reports, consent agenda items, and several action items. Key decisions include renewing the Endeavor Charter School contract for five years, purchasing English Language Learner materials for $14,642.50, approving an employee satisfaction survey, and granting telecom easements for two elementary schools. The board will also discuss enrollment projections and receive reports from various committees.
- Resolution #9180: Five-year contract renewal with Endeavor Charter School (2023-2028)
- Resolution #9179: Purchase of ELL and Dual Language materials for $14,642.50
- Resolution #9181: Approval of Employee Satisfaction Survey via School Perceptions, LLC
- Resolution #9182: TDS Telecom easements for Douglas and Schurz Elementary Schools
- Consent agenda includes staff resignations, renewals, appointments, and first reading of policies on retention and graduation
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Management Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss financial reports, including payments, variances, and expenditures over $20,000, as well as student enrollment projections, the 2023-24 budget process, and updates on buildings and grounds and HVAC projects.
- Review of payment report including credit card and check listings
- Variance report for funds 10 and 27 as of January 31, 2023
- Expenditures over $20,000, including a Second Step quote for K-8 (5 years)
- Student enrollment projections discussion
- 2023-24 budget process and assumptions
Policy Review Committee Meeting
The Policy Review Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and review several school policies, including grading systems, anti-bullying, class size, retention, and graduation requirements. The meeting is open to the public with options to attend in person or virtually via Zoom.
- Discussion of Policy 5220 Grading Systems and Reporting to Parents
- Review of new/major revisions to Policy 5362 Anti-Bullying, Respect and Relationships
- Review of new/major revisions to Policy 5105 Class Size
- Minor revisions to policies on retention, promotion, and graduation requirements
- Next meeting scheduled for April 12, 2023
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee will meet to discuss and receive information on several items, including updates on ESSER (federal COVID relief) funds, a status check on AVID program strategies, and a five-year renewal for Endeavor Charter School. The meeting is scheduled for February 14, 2023, at 7:30 a.m. at the Educational Service Center, with virtual attendance available.
- ESSER updates including English Learner Program materials and K-12 Math Adoption
- AVID Program Strategies - Status Check-In
- Endeavor Charter School - 5 Year Renewal (contract extension 23-28 attached)
Regular Monthly Board Meeting
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education is meeting to discuss and vote on several action items, including an audit report, open enrollment seats, and contracts. The board approved a $2.04 million air conditioning project for Schurz and Douglas Elementary Schools, a $60,287 vehicle purchase, and a one-year communications contract. Consent agenda items included personnel changes and bill approvals.
- Approved $2,035,411 HVAC project for Schurz and Douglas Elementary Schools
- Approved $60,287.10 purchase of F-550 Ford Super Duty truck
- Approved one-year contract with Doreen Dembski Communications Services, LLC
- Approved 35 special education open enrollment seats for 2023-24
- Certified three school board candidates for April 4, 2023 election
PUBLIC NOTICE OF GATHERING - Wisconsin Association of School Board (WASB) Convention
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will attend the Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB) Convention from January 18-20, 2023, in Milwaukee. The board will not conduct any governmental business or take formal action during this gathering.
- Attendance at WASB Convention, January 18-20, 2023
- Location: Wisconsin Center, 400 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee
- No governmental business or formal action planned
Special Board Meeting - REVISED (Start Time is 5:30 p.m.)
The Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet in closed session to conduct expulsion hearings for two students (referred to as Student "A" and Student "B"). The board may take action on each expulsion after reconvening to open session. The meeting is scheduled for January 16, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. at the Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown.
- Closed-session expulsion hearing for Student "A" at 5:30 p.m.
- Closed-session expulsion hearing for Student "B" at 7:15 p.m.
- Possible board action on expulsion for Student "A"
- Possible board action on expulsion for Student "B"
- Meeting held at Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown
Planning Committee Meeting
The Planning Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss strategic plan indicators, including verifying the scale of measures. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings on the agenda.
- Discussion of strategic plan indicators and scale verification
- Future planning agenda items to be considered
- Next meeting scheduled for March 8, 2023
Fiscal Management Committee Meeting - REVISED
The Fiscal Management Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and receive information on several financial and operational items, including an HVAC project, open enrollment seat availability for 2023-24, replacement of an F-550 vehicle, updates on buildings and grounds projects, expenditures over $20,000, payment reports, and variance reports. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 111 Dodge Street, Watertown, with a virtual option via Zoom.
- HVAC project discussion
- Open enrollment seat availability for 2023-24 school year
- Vehicle replacement of F-550
- Expenditures over $20,000
- Payment report and variance report review
Educational Services Committee Meeting
The Educational Services Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet to discuss and receive information on three items: proposed revisions to the 2023-24 Riverside Middle School career and technical education (CTE) courses, updates on ESSER III federal funding (including the Advanced Learner Program and the RMS Panther Power Hour tutoring program), and an overview of the district's academic testing program. The meeting is informational and discussion-focused, with no votes listed on the agenda.
- 2023-24 RMS CTE Course Revisions/Updates
- ESSER III Updates (Advanced Learner Program, RMS Panther Power Hour)
- WUSD Academic Testing Program - Assessment Overview
- Next meeting: Feb 14, 2023 at Endeavor Charter School
Human Resources Committee Meeting
The Human Resources Committee of the Watertown Unified School District Board of Education will meet on January 9, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center (111 Dodge Street, Watertown) with a virtual option via Zoom. The agenda includes discussion of an employee satisfaction survey, a consent agenda for staff appointments, resignations, and terminations, and a review of the support staff evaluation process. The committee will also receive an update on the Employee Wellness Committee and plan future agenda items. The next meeting is scheduled for February 20, 2023.
- Employee Satisfaction Survey Discussion
- Consent Agenda - Review of Staff Appointments, Resignations and Terminations
- Support Staff Evaluation Process (including Non-Certified Staff Evaluation Guidelines and evaluation forms)
- Employee Wellness Committee Update
- Committee Agenda Planning