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District updates strategic plan: AI pilots, new communication tools, bus wayfinder testing and $93 million referendum proceeds
Summary
Board received quarterly long‑range plan updates including AI pilots, proposed two‑way parent communication and website redesign, bus wayfinder pilot (tap cards), and progress on middle‑school referendum projects with $93 million bond proceeds received.
Sheboygan Area School District staff on Monday briefed the Board of Education on quarter‑one progress in the district's long‑range strategic plan, highlighting pilots of artificial‑intelligence tools, a district website and parent communication rollout, a bus wayfinder student tracking trial and continued planning for middle‑school referendum projects funded by a recent bond draw.
Staff said the district is piloting AI tools to identify administrative efficiencies and plans to produce recommendations on resource allocations after pilots complete. Rachel, staff member, credited Mike Jaber, the district's coordinator for instructional technology, for leading research and pilot work and said district teams have drafted AI guidelines prepared for administrative review.
Technology updates included plans for a new district website and a two‑way communication tool that would allow schools and families to exchange information more effectively. Staff said they are evaluating whether some board materials could move from SharePoint to the new site.
Transportation staff described testing of a bus wayfinder student‑tracking system. The system uses a small card that students tap when boarding and exiting buses so staff and parents can identify where students boarded and got off. District staff said the card is intended to be attached to backpacks and that parent verification protocols will be developed to prevent unauthorized callers from learning student locations.
In facilities and capital planning, staff reported the district has received about $93,000,000 from the first bond borrowing for middle‑school referendum projects and that planning and design work is advancing. The core planning team toured sample middle schools earlier this year, and larger departmental tours are scheduled as the district finalizes floor plans. Staff said a detailed update is expected at the next board meeting.
Board members asked whether the district would hold community meetings on design concepts for the two middle‑school projects; staff said they expect public updates when plans are more developed and that the project team is discussing outreach options similar to pre‑referendum events.
No formal board votes were taken on AI policy or website moves at the meeting; staff said recommendations and policy proposals will return for future action if needed.
