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Wausau highlights long‑running 'Big Friends' 4K partnership with Wausau West
Summary
Wausau School District presented the 18‑year 'Big Friends' partnership between Lincoln Early Learning Academy and Wausau West High School, describing hands‑on projects, role modeling and early‑career pipelines into education.
At the Feb. 9 meeting, Kara Rokowski, the district’s 4K principal, introduced Wausau West early childhood services students and teacher Amanda Vanusen to highlight the district’s long‑running "Big Friends" partnership between Lincoln Early Learning Academy and Wausau West High School.
Rokowski said the partnership—running about 18 years—places high‑school early childhood students in 4K classrooms, allowing older students to practice child development, communication and leadership skills while younger children gain consistent role models. Amanda Vanusen described collaborative projects including a book and puppet project where high‑school students create materials for 4K learners and follow through with stuffed toys and related books.
The presenters described the program as a "grow‑your‑own" pipeline: the district noted that many teachers work outside the immediate district after graduation and the experience helps confirm and encourage students considering careers in education. Students said the experience influenced their decision to pursue education and improved engagement for young learners who look forward to visits.
Board members praised the collaboration as an example of district‑wide partnership and applauded the student presenters.
