Holmen pilots YWCA restorative-justice program at high school and renews YMCA care agreement

District safety and student-support staff told the board April 13 that Holmen will pilot a restorative-justice partnership with the YWCA at the high school and that the district intends to continue its long-standing YMCA before/after-school care agreement.

Director of Safety and Student Services Jennifer Gimmer described a pilot MOU with the YWCA to offer weekly student groups focused on relationship-building, advocacy and leadership, and to provide YWCA staff as co-facilitators for restorative circles and conferences. The pilot dates presented to the board covered March 1 through May 1 for the current school year; Gimmer said staff hope to expand the work to middle school next year if the pilot proves successful.

"We are seeking the board's approval for an MOU with the YWCA to implement a restorative justice program at the high school level," Gimmer said. "They would focus on building student relationships, advocacy, and leadership skills, and would co-facilitate restorative circles or conferences as needed."

Dr. Mueller presented a renewal of the district's agreement with the YMCA for the district's before- and after-school care and summer-day activities. The proposed term runs July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, with an automatic renewal option through June 2028. Staff said the arrangement allows YMCA to provide staffing and supplies while using school facilities, which supports families needing full-day childcare.

Why it matters: Restorative practices aim to reduce exclusionary discipline and build student relationships; pilot evaluation will inform possible expansion. The YMCA agreement provides continuity for families who rely on on-site childcare tied to the district calendar.

Next steps: Both items will appear on the April 27 consent agenda; the board may approve the MOU and the YMCA renewal at that meeting.