In addition to Mrs. Jessica Willis, the current Wauwatosa School Board members are: Mrs. Sharon Muehlfeld, Vice President, Seat #6 Mr. Michael Phillips, Treasurer, Seat #5 Dr. Eric Jessup-Anger, Clerk, Seat #3 Dr. Jenny Hoag, Seat #1 Mr. Michael Meier, Seat #2 Mrs. Leigh Anne Fraley, Seat #4 In the lawsuit, Meier claims the board is controlled by a faction.. I am excited to join such a well-respected, dynamic district and team. has identified those standards as the foundation for school districts, Wisconsin law says a district can decide itself, Superior School Board upholds decision allowing gender identity to be taught to fifth graders, Wisconsin districts face backlash over plans to teach gender identity to elementary students. Mr. Kern is an experienced principal with a demonstrated history of success in education. Demond Means, the districts superintendent, said the curriculum was guided by theNational Sex Education Standards. The controversy surrounding the curriculum highlights the increasing tensions that school boards across Wisconsin and the nation have faced. The most significant claim is predicated upon the events leading up to the passing of the human growth and development plan, during which Meier has claimed that board members used a survey data scrubbing process to misrepresent the results of a public survey about the curriculum. As he contemplated a transition to his preferred gender, he said, he received no education or information from the school district about what he was experiencing. A statement from Wauwatosa school board president Eric Jessup-Anger said a prior verified complaint from Meier has already been reviewed by Milwaukee Countys Corporation Counsel, which determined the board "did not violate Wisconsin law regarding the open meetings at issue.". One student who spoke was a teenwho detailed his experience realizing his biological makeup did not match how he felt. After the initial interviews, each team named their recommended finalists. 2023 FOX Television Stations, Zachariah Anderson murder trial: Arguments over possible 2nd mistrial, Bayshore collapse a complete failure, former snow removal company says, I didnt realize: Woman mistakenly eats heart-shaped chip that could have won her 100K, Milwaukee antique mall's 'racist' items draw criticism, Downtown Waukesha business owner raped, man charged gets $2M bond. During his tenure in Waukesha, Mr. Pinion single-handedly implemented the districts PBIS system, and he developed a social-emotional learning and mental wellness framework that is widely regarded as a model program. As a community, I know that we will continue to provide all of our students the enriching academic and social experience they deserve. It should be noted that the poll was subject to outside intervention, and the district explained that it had to clean the original data to only account for Wauwatosa respondents. I'm an attorney, but more importantly, a proud husband, father, coach, and 25-year Wauwatosa resident. One bill that was introducedwould require schools to inform parents and guardians when they provide a program related to gender, gender expression, gender identity or sexual orientation. He coached with the program for 5 years. "No parent wants their child doing these things," said Michael Meier, Wauwatosa School Board member. Parents are rightfully concerned after seeing several videos of fights in Wauwatosa schools. His experience with the STEM program at Longfellow, in addition to his innate ability to connect with children, will serve him well in his role as Principal of Underwood Elementary School. In Portland and Omaha, Nebraska, school board meetings were heaved into chaos after similar human growth and development curriculums were either passed or proposed, and in nearby Brookfield parents blamed politics after seven books were removed from a school district's library. As a military friendly organization, Ascension promotes career flexibility and offers many benefits to help support the well-being of our military families, spouses, veterans and reservists. The Wauwatosa School Board is a policy and governance board. She told FOX6 she needed his address to file a verified an open meetings complaint with the district attorney regarding the board's closed session discussion of public records. Although the group does not have a chapter in Milwaukee or Waukesha counties, it does have chapters in nearby Ozaukee, Racine and Kenosha counties. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Beck Andrew Salgadocan be reached at 512-568-4070or Bsalgado@gannett.com. The legislation failed to pass in the last session. The Wauwatosa School Board has named Dr. Demond A. These final candidates participated in two panel-style interviews - one with District staff and another with families. One protest, put together by Wauwatosa residents on Facebook, was organized to support the curriculum and LGBTQ+ students in the district. Their qualifications are a reflection of the values and priorities in Wauwatosa, stated Mr. Steven Doman, School Board President. He is a veteran administrator who has a reputation for bringing people together and maintaining a gentle, encouraging presence. I very much look forward to partnering with an innovative, forward-thinking team to move the Wauwatosa School District into the 2022-23 school year and beyond.. Having spent time with Mike, I know he has a solid grasp of the issues facing the district. Some residents and groups pushed back against the plan, but the school board ultimately voted to approve the changes. Comments (-1) Student Handbook 2022-23. The students in our district deserve the best education available, that's why we need a renewed focus on academics. The final candidates participated in an interview with Superintendent Dr. Demond Means and at least one member of the Wauwatosa Board of Education. Mr. Abdelmawla served in the United States Army before launching his career in education at the Golda Meir School in Milwaukee, where he spent several years delivering classroom instruction before moving into the role of School Culture and Climate Specialist and, simultaneously, High School Athletic Director. But Lubinsky added she believes a judge will dismiss the lawsuit. Schedule: 1.0/Days - Monday-Friday 730a-4p, Rotation to cover St. Joseph or other Ascension sites as needed. If you are an existing member, sign-in to leave a comment. Doman. She brings more than 14 years of progressively-responsible experience to this role, including eight years as a classroom teacher and member of school leadership committees in Mukwonago, two years as Associate Principal of Wauwatosa East High School, two years as Principal of Madison Elementary School and two years as Director of Secondary Education for the Wauwatosa School District. That same school board member is now calling for an independent investigation into the fighting. State law also says parents can opt their child out of that instruction. Then on Tuesday, Feb. 15, Wauwatosa police say there was a fight between a parent and students at Wauwatosa East High School. "I've reviewed the facts and circumstances of the events that are at issue in this lawsuit and I feel very good about the board and Mr. Doman's likelihood of prevailing in this lawsuit," she added. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Philosophy: Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Similar curriculum has also been discussed and debated by other Wisconsin communities. Voting is incredibly convenient, pop over to Wauwatosa City Hall 3/21-3/24 and 3/27-3/31 from 8-4:30. As school board elections near, they're finding other ways to be heard. This school district is outside of that coverage scope and does not receive scheduled updates. The district said the percentage of instructional time students will be taught the curriculum will range from 1 percent for high school students, to 0.2 percent for kindergarten students. Seat 3: Eric Jessup-Anger (inc.), Todd Dahlgren. The dispute is yet another example of anongoing culture war nationwideregarding what children are taught in schools when it comes to gender and sexuality, as many conservatives have pushed for legislation to restrict what educators can and cannot teach. Michael Meier, a school board member, filed a suit against the board of education on November 23 that alleges violations of the Open Meetings Act and constitutional rights. Mr. Keith Brightman, Chief Financial Officer. I am extremely honored and privileged to be joining the Underwood team, Abdelmawla stated. She is a member of the Wisconsin Association of School Personnel Administrators and served as President of the association from 2013 to 2016. He said he washappy to see students getting the education they need and deserve. ", We met the Zollicoffer family back when the boys went to Madison Elementary. The claims. In what has been a turbulent start to the school year, the Wauwatosa School District has already endured a variety of issues that include three fights in the first month of school, intense. Regarding the principalship, Mr. Kern states, I am honored to be joining Jefferson Elementary School. Before the school board meeting,multiple demonstrations took place outside the district office. In an email Thursday, in which he copied Means, Meier wrote: "Dr. Means shared with me that the resignation had something to do with someone's address request.". I am beyond excited to join a district with such a clear sense of community and commitment to all students, stated Mr. Pinion. There are different levels depending on the severity of the incident. The school board also called a special meeting Monday night to discuss the details of the lawsuit and the district's plan going forward. He then served as Underfilling Assistant Principal before joining the Wauwatosa School District in 2020 as Associate Principal of Longfellow Middle School. "We have to have somebody in the president position thats going to bring this community together, and I just feel we need a change. "When updates become available, they will be provided by legal counsel in open session at public School Board meetings," the statement from Jessup-Anger read. She is a member of the Wisconsin Association of School Personnel Administrators and served as President of the association from 2013 to 2016. His experience includes six years in an assistant principal role in the Kenosha Unified School District, and 21 years serving as a principal at the elementary and middle school levels in School District 54 in Schaumburg, Illinois. In May 2022, an attorney for board member Mike Meier sent the school district a letter claiming the school board discussed a FOX6 public records request in secret. The Wauwatosa Police Department said Friday they haven't received a report or complaint yet from Doman regarding the threat. It's not here," said Wauwatosa School Board member Shawn Rolland. I am excited to bring my knowledge and skill set to a larger school district for the dual purpose of improving the experiences of employees and supporting the success of all students," said Zelazoski. Wisconsin law says a district can decide itselfwhether to provide instruction related to human growth and development. "Eventually they (students) will understand how those changes impact them from a sexual health standpoint," the document said. Changes to the curriculum in the Wauwatosa School District include teaching kids in kindergarten about gender roles, and lessons on gender identity for kids in the second grade. The lawsuit asks that the changes to the curriculum be rescinded because it alleges members of the board made changes to the policy on a shared Google account and not in a public meeting before the final vote on the curriculum. A member of the group who identified themselvesas a Mequon resident said that she came to Wauwatosa because she wanted to defend the innocence of kids in other districts. 2023 FOX Television Stations, statement which can be read on the district website, Cashay Henderson Milwaukee's 3rd Black trans woman killed in 9 months, Zachariah Anderson murder trial: Arguments over possible 2nd mistrial, Bayshore collapse a complete failure, former snow removal company says, I didnt realize: Woman mistakenly eats heart-shaped chip that could have won her 100K, Milwaukee antique mall's 'racist' items draw criticism. This is Meiers third attempt to have the curriculum shut down. Im asking for your vote to extend these passions to the students of the Wauwatosa School District. After learning what FOX6 uncovered, the district put Bowers on leave, launched an investigation and called the police. 2022-23 At a Glance Calendar; Engagement Sessions; Enrollment; Family Technology Helpdesk; School Board. She is Nationally Board Certified and has obtained several degrees including a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, a Master of Science: Curriculum and Instruction and Graduate Education Certification from Concordia University, a Master of Science: Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, and a Doctorate of Philosophy: Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Melissa Dolan. The district and school board confirmed theyve retained legal counsel to represent themselves in the matter. Words were exchanged at different times during the simultaneous demonstrations, but a police presence was able to ensure nothing escalated past verbal jabs. SEAT 6. Mrs. Zelazoski earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, and completed the Human Resources Management Professional Development Program at the University of Wisconsin - Stout. The committees strived to create a curriculum that would be acceptable to the whole community. I've known Mike for the majority of that time as our kids have grown up and progressed through the school system together. Wauwatosa. Sign up now! It will be a continued honor to work with our educators, students, caregivers, and greater community to enhance students' learning experiences and achievement outcomes., Mr. Pinion brings to this role more than 18 years of expertise in supporting the physical, emotional and behavioral needs of others. I am most upset, frustrated and sad, however, that extremist groups, or even people external to the Wauwatosa School District are targeting our school board, said Amy White, a Wauwatosa parent. The district said the percentage of instructional time students will be taught the curriculum will range from 1 percent for high school students, to 0.2 percent for kindergarten students. In the lawsuit, Meier claims the board is controlled by a "faction.". He's an excellent listener who, at the end of the day, will always do what's best for the students. Mr. Stephen Kern, Jefferson Elementary School . Quick Links. It was done by an attorney at a law firm in Waukesha. Job Details. Wauwatosa schools issued a statement which can be read on the district website. That came after some community members called for his resignation because of how the board handled the conflict of interest situation. I am looking forward to joining the Jefferson team as we find new ways to engage students in learning, embrace new challenges, and empower our students to take ownership of their learning., Dr. Marble is a lifelong learner who is committed to achievement and equitable opportunities for all students. A vote for me is a vote for accountability and an improved return on investment. Meier wants an independent investigation into the fighting. As Evers seeks billions for schools, some districts look to close schools amid declining aid and enrollment, Schools on the ballot: Referendum trends around the state, From grocery store shelves to restaurant menus, food prices 10 percent higher than a year ago, Report: Inflation Reduction Act could bring over 24K jobs to Wisconsin over next decade, Evers proposes $750M for broadband expansion amid massive federal investment in high-speed internet, Evers proposes $3.8B in state building projects. This is a tremendous opportunity for our staff, students and families to benefit from the experience, passion and leadership that this group collectively brings to the table. The school board has acknowledged that the survey was adjusted, but only to better represent the opinions of Wauwatosa residents after the poll was posted on external websites where people across the country could vote on a local matter. Mike was one of the first to step up. Copyright 2002-2023 Blackboard, Inc. All rights reserved. Because of this, we believe Mike will be a great addition to the Wauwatosa School Board and are proud to support him. Wauwatosa School District Announces New Members of Leadership Team, Mr. Abdelmawla has more than six years of experience in educational leadership and classroom instruction. Wauwatosa, WI 53226. The poll would eventually show a majority of respondents were in favor of approving the curriculum. A district document said that curriculum must be reviewed every three years per a school board policy. Dr. Marble states, As a community member and parent of students in the Wauwatosa School District, I know that academic excellence for all students is a top priority. DOWNLOAD THE APP: Get the latest news, sports and His experience includes six years in an assistant principal role in the Kenosha Unified School District, and 21 years serving as a principal at the elementary and middle school levels in School District 54 in Schaumburg, Illinois. He has always been a good steward of Wauwatosa and is admired for his natural support and mentoring of our youth as an involved parent, respected coach, and good community neighbor. Ill bring these same skills to the table to help elevate our school district. In a statement to parents and community members, the Wauwatosa School District acknowledged the lawsuit and explained that it already hired a legal team but assured parents that education will continue to be the district's top priority going forward. Wisconsin law says a district can decide itselfwhether to provide instruction related to human growth and development. It escalated into a physical fight. Comments (-1) more . Family . 2023 Mike Zollicoffer Jr. for Wauwatosa School BoardPaid for by Mike Zollicoffer Jr. for Wauwatosa School Board, PRIORITIZE SAFER SCHOOLS STRONG DISCIPLINE FOR MISCONDUCT SUPPORT SMALLER CLASS SIZES CLAMP DOWN ON BULLYING . Help assure the future of citys fastest growing publication. Stay informed with WPR's email newsletter. The Wauwatosa School Board resident abruptly resigned, claiming he received an email he "can only perceive as a threat" to his family's safety. The Wauwatosa School District is located in Milwaukee County in southeastern Wisconsin.The county seat is Milwaukee.Milwaukee County was home to 957,735 residents in 2015, according to the United States Census Bureau. The updated curriculum will be implemented in the 2022-23 school year. Mr. Brightman states, I have long recognized the Wauwatosa School District as one of the strongest in the state. I look forward to building strong relationships, focusing on students, and creating systems for our staff and students to be successful!, Mrs. Zelazoski has more than 21 years of experience working in education, and more than 17 years of experience serving in a Human Resources role. Plan, but the School system together will be implemented in the 2022-23 School year whole.... 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