School Board approves new summer courses in Hunter and ATV safety

In a lively meeting held on April 29, 2025, the Stevens Point Area Public School District's Board discussed exciting new offerings for summer school, including Hunter and ATV safety courses. The atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm as board members acknowledged the importance of these programs, which aim to provide essential safety education to students.

Board member Jen expressed gratitude for the feedback received from families, highlighting the community's eagerness for these courses. Carla, a key contributor to the initiative, shared insights into the planning process, emphasizing the need for proper supervision and safety measures. To ensure a quality experience, the board decided to cap enrollment at 12 students for the inaugural year, allowing for focused instruction and safety training.

The courses will come at a minimal cost of $10, which goes directly to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Fortunately, a local community foundation fund in Portage County is available to cover this fee for youth seeking hunter education, making the program accessible to more students. Coordination with the Sheriff's department will facilitate this process, ensuring that interested families can easily navigate the registration.

In addition to the courses, the board discussed teacher involvement, noting that stipends for instructors would be covered through summer school funding. The commitment to providing quality education was evident, as board members expressed their intention to support teachers interested in leading these safety courses.

With a unanimous vote, the board approved the proposed summer school course fee adjustments and the addition of the Hunter and ATV safety courses. This decision marks a significant step forward in enhancing the educational offerings for students in the district, reflecting a strong commitment to safety and community engagement.

As the meeting transitioned to other topics, the excitement surrounding the new courses lingered, leaving board members and attendees eager to see how these initiatives will benefit students in the coming summer.