Wausau School Board appoints Charles Berger to fill interim seat

The Wausau School District Board voted on Oct. 13 to appoint Charles Berger to an interim seat on the board, filling a term that runs from Oct. 13, 2025, through April 26, 2026. The decision followed candidate statements, supporter remarks and a ranking‑ballot vote taken by trustees.

Board President called for candidate statements and explained the process: candidates had five minutes for remarks and supporters three minutes. Candidate Cody Nicolai, who spoke first, said he had served previously and criticized some recommendation letters as "sexist" and "tacky," then withdrew his candidacy and endorsed Charles Berger. Berger described his professional background in IT and contract negotiation and his personal ties to the district, saying he would "bring my expertise, empathy, and unwavering dedication to assure every student in Wausau has the same opportunities that my children did." Supporters who spoke on Berger’s behalf included Susie Raschetto and Paul Harold.

After interviews and follow‑up questions from trustees about priorities such as deferred maintenance and fiscal stewardship, the board used a ranking ballot (members were instructed to strike the withdrawn candidate and rank the remaining candidates). Ballots were collected and tallied in open session; the chair announced there was no tie and declared Charles Berger the appointee. Berger was invited forward for the oath and welcomed to the board.

The appointed term is the remainder of an unexpired term ending April 26, 2026. The board’s action was taken in open session; there was no closed‑session vote recorded on the appointment. The chair thanked all applicants and supporters for participating in the process.