Summer learning programs grow; Hmong enrichment expands and staff warn of capacity strain

District staff reported summer learning programming enrollment and highlighted the growth of a Hmong enrichment program in partnership with Wausau schools.
Summer-learning director Britney Simniewski said approximately 1,662 students registered for the district’s three five-week programs and summarized offerings including 22 elementary courses, 18 junior-high courses, senior-high credit recovery and strength/conditioning options. The summer musical hosted nearly 80 students, and bridge-to-kindergarten programs have approximately 327 incoming kindergarteners registered, staff said.
Sia Ying and Kia Thao, coordinators for the Hmong enrichment program, said the program expanded from about 73 students at inception to roughly 330 in 2025 and noted positive community feedback and partnerships, including a community and disability fair with the Hmong American Center.
Board members asked about capacity and staffing. Coordinators said elementary class sizes ranged about 23–27 students per teacher and secondary classes about 35–37 per teacher; staff acknowledged the program’s rapid growth had outpaced staff increases and said they added a late position this year to help but asked the board to consider future support. Board members praised program leaders and asked administration to provide budget-versus-actuals and a plan to ensure appropriate staffing as the program continues to grow.