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District highlights expanded employee wellness programs, health clinic and cost savings
Summary
The board heard an update on employee wellness offerings — virtual workshops, an employee clinic, screenings and targeted supports — and was told the district’s clinic activities to date have yielded measurable cost avoidance and high utilization.
Middleton‑Cross Plains Area School District staff reported April 20 on an expanded employee wellness program that includes virtual workshops, targeted fitness opportunities, health‑clinic services and partnerships to support staff physical and mental health.
Kalise Horst, district wellness coordinator, outlined spring offerings (financial wellness, stress management, mindfulness and meal planning) and a large staff ‘color run.’ She said 157 employees participated in virtual wellness sessions this spring and more than 100 employees signed up for an upcoming “Amazing Race” staff event. Horst described targeted offerings such as a self‑defense class for female staff in early‑morning roles (nutrition services and custodial staff) and new fitness equipment installed in the transportation department bus barn.
Health clinic and cost impact: The district’s on‑site clinic, staffed through community health partners, delivered screening events (including skin checks and mammograms) and individualized coaching under a “By Your Side” program. Horst said the clinic’s screening events generated a calculated cost avoidance of about $94,000 by providing services in‑district that otherwise might have been billed to insurance or outside specialists. The district reported a sustained provider fill rate near the 80% target and plans to continue targeted specialist days and outreach.
Workforce supports: The wellness team described job‑coaching pilots for employees who need skill support, an updated Employee Assistance Program with 24/7 counseling, and plans for grief and mental‑health support groups based on survey feedback. Nutrition services highlighted menu updates and new staff‑friendly meal options. The district’s “whole being” wellness team (representatives from every building and many staffing groups) will produce a strategic plan and a summer course to help employees plan for the next school year.
Board members praised the clinic and noted the program’s value for recruitment and retention. Staff said they will include wellness information in upcoming hiring events to highlight benefits and supports for prospective employees.
