FAC Public Hearing (virtual)

The Facility Advisory Committee (FAC) has been diligently meeting each month, and their last three sessions will conclude in early November. We want to emphasize that transparency and openness have been our guiding principles throughout this process. You can access all FAC-related materials, including agendas, presentations, meeting recordings, and minutes on our district’s website. We encourage you to stay informed by exploring these resources.

The FAC has explored various options for elementary consolidation and secondary facility improvements, which include the potential closure of some buildings. We understand the deep attachment our community has to its schools, teachers, and staff. However, the FAC’s work is essential in addressing challenges such as declining enrollment and budget constraints while striving to create the best learning environments for our students.

One critical point to remember is that, regardless of the recommendations made by the FAC, we are committed to maintaining class sizes within our current ranges. Additionally, attrition will be used to avoid layoffs in most cases. For instance, when Lincoln Middle School closed this year, there was only one layoff, and average class sizes remained unchanged from the previous year.

We want to express our gratitude to the dedicated community members who volunteer their time on the FAC. They have faced difficult decisions, and we appreciate their commitment to serving our community. It’s important to note that while the FAC will make recommendations, the final decisions will rest with the district’s Board of Education.

We encourage everyone to stay engaged in this process. You can watch meeting recordings, review posted materials on our website, and attend meetings in person if you wish. Although observers at FAC meetings cannot actively participate, they can submit question cards, which our administration will address as part of the ongoing FAQ. Please remember to be respectful of the FAC members and their valuable work.

In late November, on the 27th and 29th, there will be opportunities for public comments on the FAC report that will be presented to the Board of Education. The Board will consider this feedback as they address the report’s recommendations and develop a long-term facility plan. If you feel strongly about a particular outcome, this will be the appropriate time to advocate for your perspective.

To speak at the hearings, please register with the Secretary of the Board of Education during regular office hours (8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday – Friday) by calling 608.789.7659 or emailing lsteiger@lacrossesd.org. Registration must be completed before 4:00 p.m. on the day of the hearing. During registration, provide your name and the school district where you reside. Registered speakers will be allowed up to five (5) minutes to make their remarks.

The public hearing will be live-streamed here: https://youtube.com/live/dVxaEM0aNhk?feature=share

Learn more about the work of the FAC here: https://www.lacrosseschools.org/facilities-advisory-committee/