Central Elementary highlights student growth; Board recognizes teacher for National Board Certification

Central Elementary staff presented an overview of the school's mission, culture and academic progress at the Rhinelander School District Board meeting on Jan. 19. Principal Amanda Olson said enrollment is 266 students in EC–5 and that the school employs roughly 61 staff, including contracted personnel. Staff reported significant improvements in staff trust, leadership support, student discipline practices and social‑emotional learning integration, and academic data indicating student growth exceeding national averages in literacy and math.

The Board also received an update on the Hodag Expanded Program from staff members Amanda Beuning, Jeff Rauworth and Kelci Seaman. The program provides individualized instruction, consistent schedules and wraparound supports for students with behavioral, emotional and mental‑health needs, substance‑use (AODA) concerns and special‑education requirements. Program staff highlighted community‑based experiential learning opportunities and noted program successes including students transitioning back to full‑day schedules at James Williams Middle School and Rhinelander High School.

Director of Learning Support Richard Gretzinger introduced Amanda Beuning and the Board recognized her for earning National Board Certification in Wisconsin—a credential described at the meeting as the highest professional credential in K‑12 teaching in the United States.

Board members and administrators praised the school’s work in improving climate and academic outcomes; no formal motions were required for these reports.