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Parent says district ignored families after eighth-grade athletic recognition canceled
Summary
At public comment a parent, Mike Shaw of Frankfort, criticized district athletics leaders for cancelling a donated pregame recognition for eighth graders, saying the response from administration and the board was insufficient and that the decision damaged trust.
Mike Shaw of Frankfort used his public-comment time to sharply criticize the district’s handling of a proposal to give a brief, donated pregame recognition to eighth-grade athletes in both Wagner and Reedsburg middle schools. Shaw said he had secured donated flowers and that the change affected girls and boys aged 13–14.
"Only four board members decided to respond," Shaw said, adding that the athletic coordinator "stated directly they would not be reconsidered and then stopped responding altogether." He described the lack of communication as unprofessional and said it had "burned a relationship" with families who had otherwise supported the district.
Shaw urged the board to improve basic professionalism and communication when decisions affect children and families, arguing that choosing not to act is itself a decision that sends a negative message to students. The chair later apologized for a delayed email response and said the chair typically handles board replies to maintain a single, consistent message.
The public-comment rules limit speakers to three minutes; the board declined to take immediate questions during the comment period but invited follow-up via email for factual questions such as square footage or cost estimates.
No formal board action was recorded on the eighth-grade recognition during the meeting; the chair acknowledged the complaint and apologized for the delayed response from the board’s office.
