Whitewater Times

The Watertown Unified School District (WUSD) is addressing the challenge of declining student enrollment and financial constraints by considering the closure of the LEAP Elementary School building after the 2025-2026 school year. The district's administration has recommended this action as part of a long-range facilities plan, acknowledging the "deep connections our students, families, and staff have with that location." The WUSD Board of Education will make a final decision on this matter in a meeting later this spring.

The district faces difficulties due to "rising costs, an antiquated state funding formula that doesn’t keep pace with inflation, and other unfunded state mandates," which complicate efforts to maintain high-quality education. Alongside facility planning discussions, WUSD plans to proceed with an operational referendum on April 1, 2025. This measure seeks additional funding to uphold educational standards while fostering innovation. Without it, WUSD may confront "unpopular decisions concerning programs and services that directly impact our students."

Community members are encouraged to gather factual information about the referendum's implications for local schools by visiting the district website or attending meetings. The importance of community involvement is emphasized by David Schroeder, President of the WUSD Board of Education, and Dr. Jarred Burke, Superintendent of Schools: "Together, we can ensure that the WUSD remains a place where students thrive, teachers inspire, and our community stays strong."