Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District - Witt-Birn Referendum 2018

Referendum Update September 16, 2019

The first phase of our referendum work is complete. This consists of remodeling all district entryway spaces to provide for more secure accountability of guests, as well as accommodating traffic entering and leaving district facilities. The bid process for phase II is almost complete, with an anticipated start to excavation and site work set for early/mid October. We will have a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for Wednesday, September 18th to kick off the new construction. This will take place at the site of the new Environmental Studies Center to the east of the High School facility. New construction occurring during phase II will include 2 new classrooms at Birnamwood Elementary, a new handicap ramp at the main entrance, renovations to the choir and general music classroom, and a new elementary playground. Additionally, Wittenberg Elementary will also receive two new elementary classrooms, a new music classroom, primary bathrooms, and enhancements to the art, 4K and Kindergarten classrooms. Finally, the High School will receive a complete HVAC replacement, improvements to many career and technical education spaces, added square footage to the community fitness center, completely renovated science classrooms and a new environmental studies building where all agriculture education classes will take place. This highlights the major changes taking place beginning October 2019 and continuing through August of 2020. Please stay tuned for updates as we continue to move through the construction process.

Referendum Update: April 4, 2019

Bidding specs for the Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District Secure Entryway project are now complete and available by contacting Matt McGregor from Hoffman Planning, Design and Construction, Inc at mamcgregor@hoffman.net. Interested parties may also inquire by calling (920) 380-2104.

Referendum Update: February 7, 2019 - Board Meetings with Hoffman Design

Referendum Update: January 22, 2019

On behalf of the entire School District of Wittenberg-Birnamwood, we would like to share our sincere appreciation and gratitude for your support with November 6th's referendum. Results have not been officially canvassed, but unofficial numbers show Question 1 at approximately 1,888 yes votes and 1,428 no votes and Question 2 at approximately 1,362 yes votes and 1,944 no votes. Again, this is only based on information we received from municipalities, so an official count is yet to be determined. The vote of confidence you have provided will allow for significant infrastructure improvements to be made throughout all of our facilities and will absolutely benefit our students' school experience. This is a true testament to the support and commitment our families, taxpayers, all stakeholders have in our system. Our kids will be the recipient of some great changes coming soon!

With sincere thanks,

WB Schools

Why is the school district proposing a referendum?

The school district underwent a comprehensive facility needs analysis in 2015 that included numerous community listening sessions, staff interviews, district planning committee meetings, town hall presentations and a district-wide community survey. This process, which is now entering its fourth year, has allowed us to gain a solid understanding for the program, service and space needs the community values and may be willing to support above which the district's normal operating budget can allow for.

The goal and intention has been to support a comprehensive plan that benefits the entire community all while keeping taxes well within the regional average and continuing to be a district of choice in the area. Programming and safety needs at both PK-8 schools require classroom additions and vestibule changes that cannot be met out of budget. The high school career and technical education spaces are outdated and inefficient in meeting industry standard requirements. Current infrastructure and HVAC systems do not support adequate learning environments. And current physical education spaces are utilized over capacity throughout the year.

We hope that by attending one of the various presentations scheduled throughout the district, residents will be able to make a very informed and educated decision on November 6th regarding the proposed plan.

If you have any questions, please email Mr. Rogowski at grogowski@wittbirn.k12.wi.us.