The need for short term borrowing was addressed by the Dodgeville School Board Monday.
The board voted to borrow up to three million dollars during the next school year.
The board discussed the operational referendum they are planning and the community survey to determine its scope. The referendum would be presented at the fall election. The board discussed potential wording with what will go out to the public. The board has until August to determine the ask and will follow that with listening sessions. The board will discuss the survey results at a special board meeting in July.
The board heard a lengthy presentation on the state of their facilities and potential repurposing through a facilities assessment report. While the board will not move forward with any projects at this time they will use the information as they plan for the future. The report was comprehensive in that it pointed out needed upgrades and how to deal with declining enrollments along with potential changes in charter school and other opportunities for learning.
District Administrator Ryan Bohnsack presented the academic and career planning report and answered questions. Later in the meeting the board approved the report.
The board heard the results of recent committee meetings which included policy, finance and building and grounds. They also heard from two district residents who have concerns about board member availability and how to communicate with board members directly. There were also concerns discussed about open enrollment losses. The board later discussed ways to be more accessible and make sure the public receives answers to their questions.
During the reports the board discussed the recent storm and the clean up that was needed and taken care of following it. There was one tree that had limb damage.
The board discussed and later approved the energy savings plan through a solar project that will come with no cost to the district. The board will be working with DataWrangler to get the project underway. The plan is expected to provide extensive energy savings for the district.
A shared services contract was approved with CESA #3 which will provide necessary needs for the district.
As requited by statutes the board approved the academic standards notice for 2026-2027. They also approved the academic and career planning annual report and the achievement gap reduction plan. The achievement gap reduction plan received considerable discussion as to how to enhance learning throughout the district. It is hoped to bring up the reading and math scores at the elementary level.
The board approved three policy updates.