Board approves academic standards notification, student fees and AI policy; induction handbook set for later approval

The Onalaska School District board took several routine actions July 13, approving notification of state academic standards for 2026''27, adopting student fees for the coming year and approving a second-reading policy on artificial intelligence, while holding the induction handbook as an information-only first reading.

Standards notification: Lish told the board that state statute requires the board to approve the standards the district uses and provide annual notification to families. She said the district is not proposing changes for 2026''27 and will notify parents that it uses the Wisconsin Academic Standards for ELA and mathematics, the Wisconsin social studies standards, Next Generation Science Standards for science, WIDA English-language development standards and CASEL social-emotional learning standards. Trustee Anne moved to approve the notification, and Trustee Tracy seconded; the motion passed on a voice vote.

Induction handbook: Lish presented the induction handbook for first reading (information only). Major changes include removing specific coach-position language from the handbook (math coach position eliminated in staffing plan) while retaining literacy support through the district's literacy specialist and broadening contracted coaching supports. The handbook will return for board action at the next meeting.

Student fees: The board approved the list of student fees for 2026''27 as presented. There were no high-school fee changes; middle school co-curricular fees had small increases for drama and show choir; elementary fees are limited primarily to field trips and the district has worked to fold school-supply costs into building budgets to reduce family charges. Trustee Anne moved for approval, seconded by Trustee Tracy; the motion carried by voice vote.

Artificial intelligence policy: The board approved policy 7540.08 (artificial intelligence) on second reading. Presenter Ben said the policy may need periodic revision as AI tools evolve and that it was reviewed by Neola attorneys.

Consent agenda and closed session: The board approved the consent agenda. The board then voted to convene in closed session under section 19.85(1)(c) and (f) to consider the superintendent's performance evaluation data and closed-session minutes; a roll call recorded "yes" votes from Tisha, Tracy, Brian, Mark, Anne and Aaron.

These actions were routine approvals and information items intended to complete the board's summer agenda and prepare for fall implementation steps.