Omro School District student accepted to Amaro's WIT alternative education program

The Oshkosh Area Board of Education meeting on August 25, 2025, focused on key updates regarding alternative education programs within the district, including the introduction of a tuition agreement with the Omro School District and a review of the annual alternative education report.

A significant discussion centered on the district's alternative education programs, specifically the WIT (Whatever It Takes) and WIN (Whatever Is Necessary) programs, which cater to students with mental health and behavioral challenges. The board confirmed that WIT serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade, with a capacity of 24 students across three classrooms. The WIN program, aimed at high school students, typically accommodates around 8 to 9 students due to the complexities of supporting multiple grade levels.

The meeting also highlighted the annual review of the district's alternative education plan, which has been updated to reflect changes in state statutes and programmatic needs. Notably, the Newstart program, which provided a GED option for credit-deficient students, was eliminated due to declining enrollment and the availability of similar support through the Riverside program. Riverside, in partnership with Fox Valley Technical College, continues to thrive, enrolling 87 students last year, with 46 graduating.

Additionally, the True Academy program was discussed, which supports students facing expulsion or those with significant behavioral challenges. The program aims to help students transition back to traditional high school settings, focusing on building essential skills such as conflict resolution and self-regulation.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to providing tailored educational support for at-risk students, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and opportunities for success. The board expressed optimism about the ongoing improvements and the positive impact these programs have on student outcomes.