The Oconto Falls School Board reordered its priorities for funding when it met in special session June 22 at Abrams Elementary School.
According to a press release issued by the school district, the School Board, with a 4-2 vote, reversed a decision to split the Abrams fifth-grade class into three sections. Instead, the projected enrollment of 48 students will be divided into two classes.
On June 8, the board developed a list of priorities regarding vacancies created by resignations and retirements. The board identified the following order, from highest to lowest priority: Abrams Elementary guidance counselor, an additional fifth-grade teacher at Abrams Elementary, middle school agriculture teacher, elementary library media specialist and an additional computer technician.
Pupil Services Director Terri Olsen and Principal Joanne Michalski outlined several steps taken to respond to the needs of the Abrams fifth-grade class, which includes several special needs students. Following their presentation, the board decided an additional section was not necessary.
Voting against the motion were Tracey Krumrei and Stephanie Wijas, whose child attended fourth grade at Abrams Elementary for the 2014-15 school year.
The estimated cost for personnel and classroom start-up for a fifth-grade section was close to $75,000.
The School Board also agreed the hiring priorities will be guidelines, rather than absolutes.
The School Board also approved a Washington Middle School assistant principal contract for Lucas Cromell, who had previously been employed as WMS dean of students. His salary has not been set. As an administrator, he will receive a slight increase in fringe benefits.
