Wisconsin Heights reviews first few weeks of school, looks forward to referendum

The Wisconsin Heights School Board took a step back at their August 14 meeting and discussed how the school year was progressing. Surveys sent to students and parents throughout the district revealed that most are satisfied with the online start to the school year. The board will have another big decision coming up in the next few meetings, as their initial online start is through the first quarter only. In early October they will be voting again on whether to extend the online model. The decision will ultimately be based on Dane County COVID-19 metrics. With the return of UW-Madison students COVID-19 cases are trending up. District administrator Jordan Sinz noted that even with the district’s location on the edge of the county, there are local connections throughout the county. Due to a change in USDA guidelines, any child 18 or under within the school district boundaries can receive free meals. The district is reimbursed for the expense, and Sinz reminded the board that taking advantage of a free meal does not take one away from someone in need. “You’re not taking anything away,” said Sinz, from others utilizing the program. A traffic study on the main entrance to the Middle School/High School on Highway 14 revealed that the 2014 improvements we successful in reducing crashes. Since 2014 there have only been two accidents at the main entrance--both on the same day, both due to a snowstorm. Traffic data shows southbound traffic averages 45 miles an hour, and northbound averages 60. The board will soon be reviewing four different design proposals to changes to entry and exit on school grounds, and not Highway 14. Sinz said the proposals will be brought before faculty and staff, the bus company, and other interested parties.