By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Board studies new curriculum program
Placeholder Image
MONROE - Incoming freshman at Monroe High School next year will have to earn one more credit to graduate.

Monroe High School Principal Rick Waski updated the board on a new curriculum program it is eyeing in hopes of improving student performance in core subjects. The program, in the planning stage, would focus on the four core subjects of English, math, science, and social studies.

"The program will be ready next year for incoming freshman," Waski said.

The district increased the number of credits needed for graduation from 24 to 25, because there will be more required core curriculum classes for students.

A committee of English, science and special education teachers have been meeting since October to develop assessment criteria for the new program. Waski said three assessments including MAP, Explore and state tests will be used for placing students.

Students are expected to be tested in core subject areas in eighth grade. The students would be placed in one of three categories for each core subject. The three classes are expected to be named English 9A, English 9B and honors English.

Some are concerned about the categorizing of students. But Waski pointed out that the assessments are data driven.

"It's based on assessment data and not on grades," Waski said.

In December, Waski said students who enter their freshmen year in a class could test into a higher level at the end of the year. There's a possibility they could be moved to a higher level at the end of the semester.

In other action:

n The board drew names for the order for the spring school board election. The order on the ballot will be Laurie Genz Prien, Larry Eakins, Mary Frantz and Michael Boehme.

n Monroe High School student Alyssa Quinn is a finalist for the Kohl Scholarship. Her scholarship was sent to the Department of Public Instruction for final judging Feb. 1-2.

n Members of the Monroe High School EcoAction Club gave an informational presentation and received approval from the board to use $2,500 from John Baumann of Colony Brands Inc. to purchase two new recycling bins and donate to each school in the district.

n A group of Monroe High School students gave a presentation to the board on a business competition they participated in at the University of Marquette. The business challenge was the group had to develop a plan to assist "Smartville High School" in developing more revenue and getting more fans to games. The board didn't finish in the top six, but had the chance to learn business tips.

n The board agreed to hire Megan Wand as a Parkside ELL teacher.