Students and directors say combining Logan and Central show choirs produced a stronger program

Directors and student performers from Logan and Central high schools told the La Crosse School Board on May 19 that combining the two show‑choir programs this year produced better competitive results and stronger student community. "When I first heard about the plan to combine the Logan and Central Show choirs, I'll be honest, I was concerned," said Maddie Prs, a 10th grader at Logan High School, before describing how the merged group became a source of confidence and connection for students.

Ian Schultz, choir director at Central, and Adam Cardi, choir director at Logan, said the student‑led naming and integration process helped ease the transition. The directors said the combined group grew to 52 singers, supported by 17 band members and a five‑person crew, allowing two coach buses for travel and stronger stage presentations at competitions. "We put together a little highlights video of our year," Schultz said, noting judges and audiences recognized the group's musical and social cohesion.

Board members asked follow‑up questions about rehearsal sites, practice schedules and cultural integration between the two former programs. Directors said most rehearsals took place at Central because of facilities (rehearsals typically 6:30–9 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays), and that student voting and recurring conversations preserved meaningful traditions from both schools. The board praised students for their presentations and asked staff to continue monitoring rehearsal logistics as the program grows.

The student testimonials were part of a broader school showcase at the meeting; the board did not take formal action on the program during the session.