Students raise thousands for Type 1 diabetes; superintendent highlights new school and grant

Fifth-grade students spoke to the board about a student-led fundraiser for Type 1 diabetes, describing outreach, media coverage and a May 16 school marathon that included a makers fair and bake sale.

"My name is Elle McManus. I gave my teacher, Miss Newell, a donation that sparked a school and citywide fundraiser," said Elle McManus (role: Student), describing how a classroom donation and student outreach helped the class reach its initial goal and secure local press coverage.

Students reported more than $6,000 raised through combined events and noted partnerships with parent volunteers and community groups. James Marquardt (role: Student) said the class set a follow-up target of $7,500 and worked with parent volunteers ("JPG") to meet logistics for the marathon and associated activities.

In the superintendent's report, district leadership recognized nearly 900 combined years of service among employees honored at the annual recognition banquet and named numerous long-service honorees and retirees. The Superintendent also shared video and photos from the Saukville Elementary groundbreaking and an interior preview of the planned facility, noting it will include a community room, gymnasium with bleachers and trails behind the school.

The Superintendent announced the district received a Bruce Kreer Charitable Foundation grant for $84,389 to support districtwide Lego League equipment — including 3D printers, coding and engineering kits — and said the district will produce a donation report for board review next month.

Board members applauded the students and staff for the community engagement and educational value of both the student fundraiser and the new classroom and community facilities project.