Schools

The River Valley School Board highlighted the devotion and efforts of Kathy Jennings, outgoing School Board President, at their Board meeting on April 9th in their Community Spotlight. The Community Spotlight award recognizes community members who have served above and beyond their role for having a positive impact on River Valley staff and students. After 12 years of school board service as the representative from the Village of Arena, with 10 years as the Board President, the River Valley team expressed deep appreciation for Kathy’s balanced perspective, attention to detail, and incredible leadership. District Administrator Loren Glasbrenner said: “She’s gone through four U.S. presidents. She’s gone through [a] universal pandemic across the world. She’s gone through the closure of elementaries. She’s gone through two Governors. She’s gone through three Superintendents. She’s gone through four business managers. She’s gone through seven referenda questions--and all of it with balance.” He continued: “You’re the best boss I ever had.” Jennings for her part said she had a deep appreciation for the administrator and staff, and they “show up every day for our students and our families and our community.” She also expressed appreciation for the board members, who work “well” together. Saying it has been a honor and privilege to serve on the board, Jennings ended her words with a bit of humor: “So let’s have a good meeting, and don’t make me regret anything.” Pictured, Paula Wedige, Administrative Assistant; Nate and Jimmy Jennings, sons of Kathy Jennings and River Valley alumni; Kathy Jennings, Outgoing Board President; Loren Glasbrenner, Superintendent; and Fred Iausly, Board Treasurer.

The March Above the Line theme at Grand Avenue was “Cooperation.” The students listed below received awards in March from their classroom teacher or staff member for demonstrating exceptional cooperation with others. Congratulations to these students! Front Row: Kinsley Getgen, Martin Ruiz-Carmona, Ace Trachsler, Brody Schell, Brycen Stille, Anna Galvan, Harper Cooper, Henry Frost, Hugo Kochaver, Maxwell Goetz, Olivia Persinger. Middle Row: Sienna Sievert, Grace Mendez Retamoza, Layla Taylor, Langley Miller, Esme Gibson, Elin Alderman, Peyton Holden, Finn Slotty, Castin Cole, Finn Rhode, Student, Beckham Liegel, Brantley Anderson. Back Row: Liam Beckwith, Olivia Shields, Sammy Perez, Reagan Savage, Hunter Holden, Lawson Jones, Julian Galvan, Nora Doll, James Popple, Caleb Anderson, Azi Lehan, Brayden Wallace. Not pictured: Sophie Bach and Jona Jimenez.

Voters approved an operational referendum for the School District of Reedsburg this Spring Election. (Independent Star News file photo)

An operational referendum for the Weston School District passed thanks to a majority of “yes” votes in Richland County. Sauk County results were an even split for and against. (Independent Star News file photo)