West Bend DOES NOT want the high schools combined!

In 1992 an advisory referendum on combining the schools was defeated 5,992-3,743. After the referendum, the School Board voted 4-3 against a merger. A community survey in 2008 showed that 60 percent of respondents preferred keeping the schools separate.  Why are we revisiting this issue?  History has indicated West Bend does NOT want this! And, why does the board seem like their minds are made up if their decision does not reflect the mailed and online survey (which cost the district 4k to mail out).

If the schools merge, it will create the largest high school in the state with an enrollment of about 2,317 students, West Bend School District Superintendent Ted Neitzke said.

Arrowhead would follow with an enrollment of approximately 2200.  To spite fairly close populations their district’s median household income is approx.. $93,000.  West Bend’s median household income is approx.. $54,000. Financially WBHS would be at a huge financial disadvantage to compete academically and athletically with them.

There would be some decreases in opportunities for the students if the two schools become one, Neitzke said, notably in scholarships, athletics, National Honor Society and forensics.

It IS a fact.  The number of scholarships will decrease.

It will probably only save the school district a little bit of money, and make the sports teams better, but only the best kids will play and most kids will never even make the teams. The meeting last night showed that participation is the same as it was 15 years ago. How do volleyball, baseball and cross country compete at such high levels year in and year out with the 2 school system? Maybe we need to look at why they are so successful and follow their lead rather than just assume combining the schools will make teams better.

Neitzke said consideration would also have to be given to the logistics of holding graduation for the combined schools, as well has having to pick a new mascot and having to change some of the exteriors of the building to denote a single school.

He didn’t mention – all new uniforms for each and every team (some of which would be at the team member’s expense – for example, athletes that buy their own warm ups), new apparel (t shirts, sweatshirts, etc.) for team and organization members (which is at the student’s expense), new letter jackets - at a $200+ each (again at the student’s expense), the booster club having to discard their current inventory of east and west stock & repurchase all new inventory. That will leave less resources to support the athletic teams. 

Everything, through out both schools & common areas that represents east and/or west has to be removed/replaced.  Things, such as, each team’s past accomplishments & school records in the gymnasium.

All of the apparel and sundries alumni, current students and their families own have to be replaced if they want to show their school spirit and support.  It will impact current families the most as they transition.

The combination of the two high schools WILL NOT improve/enhance/change the academic opportunities or performance.

The board members are elected officials – elected to represent the school district’s community.  Elected to represent community's position.

Let them know West Bend DOES NOT want the high schools combined!