Awards Recognize Efforts of Rural Schools, Communities, and Libraries
State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster presented her first Standing Up for Rural Schools, Communities, and Libraries awards on March 9 during the annual Small Schools Conference in Wisconsin Rapids.
The awards recognize the efforts of Wisconsin rural communities that have advocated for their schools, libraries, and way of life at a time when many are threatened by difficult financial challenges. "We have strong schools because of the capable teachers and administrators, engaged business and community leaders, and active parents working together to keep schools strong," Burmaster said.
Oconto Falls performing arts center:
State Superintendent Burmaster;
Candie Lehto, Oconto Falls school district;
Cheryl Clark, facilities planning committee;
Dave Polashek, Oconto Falls school district
An award was presented to:
Oconto Falls Performing Arts Center
Oconto Falls School District
Oconto Falls, WI
Five years ago, Oconto Falls High School was faced with a building referendum for a major addition to the school. A building committee designed a plan which included classrooms for music, science and technical education, a gym, a commons area with kitchen, and a performing arts center. The committee wrestled with whether or not to include the performing arts center as a separate item. It chose to take the stand that all needs were important, and in April of 2000, the voters gave the 'go ahead'.
Anticipating the new building, community members organized around the idea of filling that space. The Oconto Falls Friends of the Arts is into its third year of offering a Fine Arts Series. With every performance, community members are impressed with the experience.
The decision by the committee to include the performing arts center in a one question referendum and the promotional energy of the Friends of the Arts have paid big dividends for the quality of life in Oconto Falls and the surrounding community.
For questions about this information, contact dpifin@dpi.wi.gov (608) 267-9114
Last updated on 8/30/2005 1:13:00 PM
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