Washburn schools ask voters for $4.8M after three years of cuts
Reported byAPG of Wisconsin
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- Rural: Mentions “rural” in our summary
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AI-assisted preview
The School District of Washburn in Wisconsin will ask voters on Nov. 3 for permission to go past the state cap on how much revenue it can raise. It is one of 62 districts with such a request. The district wants $4.8 million over four years for day-to-day operations and upkeep. The amount would begin at $900,000 in the first year and increase annually until the final year, 2029-30, when it peaks at $1.5 million. For a $100,000 home, the district puts the first-year tax impact at around $123. Superintendent Denise Michaelsen says the district would collect less if the full amount proves unnecessary.
The request comes after three years of reductions. The district went from five bus routes to four, and Michaelsen says some students now ride 20 to 25 minutes longer daily. Its 4K program dropped from five days weekly to three, and some retiring staff were not replaced. Michaelsen ties the need to state funding, noting that per-student revenue limits have lagged inflation since 2009 and that the aid formula treats the district as better able to pay as property values rise. Enrollment is down about 90 students since 2021-22. A building referendum approved in 2024 cannot be used for operating costs.
If the measure fails, the district expects a shortfall near $700,000 this school year and says it would ask voters again in April. Further staff cuts would follow if that also fails, and the district's presentation lists larger classes and fewer elective, advanced and athletic offerings as possible results.
Why it matters
The outcome could shape bus rides, class sizes, program offerings and local property tax bills in Washburn. The article also shows how state funding rules and enrollment trends can push rural districts to seek local voter approval repeatedly.
- Operating referendum
- Budget cuts
- State funding formula
- Enrollment decline
- Transportation and bus routes
- Property taxes
A short preview written with AI from the publisher's article. It may contain errors; the full story has the details and is the authoritative source. Our editorial standards.
Read the full story at APG of Wisconsin (opens in a new tab)Questions to discuss
- How should a district weigh longer bus rides, fewer early-learning days and other cuts against asking taxpayers for more money?
- What information would help voters judge whether an operating request of this size is appropriate for a district like this one?
- How might state funding rules for rural districts be changed, and who should take part in that discussion?
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