Students report fall sports, theater and growth in Best Buddies and Future Educators Club

Waunakee students and teacher representatives told the Board of Education about fall athletics, clubs and student leadership programs during the meeting.

Ellen Willett, an eighth‑grade Spanish teacher, and two colleagues gave the Waunakee Teachers Association’s monthly report, praising district celebrations for Hispanic Heritage Month and the continued use of online parent‑teacher conferences to improve family access.

Student reporters summarized fall sports — cross country, football, girls swim, boys soccer, girls golf, tennis and boys volleyball — and noted state qualifiers in golf and tennis. They also reviewed club activities: the student council’s Oct. 29 Halloween event and a student‑run blood drive; FFA members attending the national convention; and theater one‑act performances hosted at the high school the coming Saturday.

The board’s Warrior Spotlight featured Dominic, a senior and Future Educators Club officer, who said the club has 45 members and focuses on school‑based apprenticeships and college visits. Laurie Ganderick, communications officer for Best Buddies, said the chapter has grown to more than 70 members and described inclusive lunchtime activities and community service that help peers with special needs engage more fully.

Why it matters: Student activities and clubs are a regular board accountability forum and highlight participation and volunteerism across the district.

What’s next: Trustees thanked students and teachers for reports; no board action was required.