Editor’s note: Mr. Tealey’s letter to the editor contained factually inaccurate information about the superintendent’s salary. The superintendent’s total compensation is $246,000, inclusive of salary and benefits. According to Wausau School Board member Lance Trollop, Dr. Hilts’ salary is about 37th in the state, and his total compensation is about 24th. Wausau Pilot & Review has removed incorrect information that claimed the total compensation was salary, and the claim that the rate is the sixth-highest in the state. Email questions or concerns to [email protected].
Dear editor,
As a current candidate for Board of Education of Wausau Public Schools, I believe the residents of the Wausau School District deserve more than platitudes. Below is a brief summary of my views of some of the issues facing the district this year. I look forward to meeting people and discussing these items in more detail.
- Consolidation:
Maintaining both high schools.
This has been discussed, analyzed and studied for some time and the public supports continuation of both high schools (9-12). The enrollment at East is 960, which is an ideal size for a high school, according to experts. Both East and West have excellent, distinct specialized programs that students can access with provided transportation.
- Student test scores, absenteeism and student representation
Lower test scores have been occurring at both schools and the superintendent and board have not successfully addressed these issues. Student test scores can be enhanced a number of ways, including small class sizes, use of teacher aides, summer and afterschool programs and more faculty contact with parents.
- Administration:
Evidence shows that even though enrollment has fallen, the number of administrators has risen in the last few years. Plus, administrative salaries, particularly the superintendent salary, is considerably higher than districts of this size.
As we look to hire a new superintendent, it is imperative to consider that a savings here and across the administrative staff can be sent back to be used in the classroom to benefit students and teachers.
- Neighborhood schools:
If a neighborhood school closure is discussed, it must be done openly in collaboration with the parents, community and teachers. It should be done very cautiously.
- Teacher retention
The administration needs to devise plans to retain teachers and to make this the district of choice for new teachers. Giving teachers a seat at the district’s table once again is an important step in this process.
- Trust
No more referendums until the community can regain trust in the board. In 2022, the community passed a $120 million referendum and the board and superintendent tried to use the money in areas that were not intended by the electorate.
Fred Tealey, 2024 Wausau School Board candidate, [email protected]
Editor’s note: Wausau Pilot & Review gladly publishes commentary from readers, residents and candidates for local offices. The views of readers and columnists are independent of this newspaper and do not necessarily reflect the views of Wausau Pilot & Review. To submit, email [email protected] or mail to 500 N. Third St., Suite 208-8, Wausau, Wis. 54403.
