News Summary
The Hudson School District Board has voted to close Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools due to ongoing budget shortfalls. The decision, which has faced significant opposition from parents and community members, aims to save approximately $3.3 million by the end of the 2025-26 school year. Concerns have been raised about the impact on students, especially those with special needs, prompting many families to consider alternative educational options.
Hudson, WI – In a significant decision affecting the local education landscape, the Hudson School District Board voted 6-1 on Monday night, October 13, 2025, to close Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools. This action is part of the district’s response to ongoing budget shortfalls and is set to take effect at the end of the 2025-26 school year.
The closures have sparked considerable concern and opposition within the community, particularly among parents. Many attendees at the board meeting voiced deep emotional reactions to the decision, emphasizing the schools’ importance to the local community. Parents expressed feelings of sadness, with some crying as they highlighted the significance of the schools in their children’s lives.
Financial challenges for the district have become increasingly severe due to a decline in student enrollment and insufficient state funding that has not kept pace with inflation in recent years. Board member Megan Rozowski stated that without adequate funding, the district would be unable to provide an effective education to its students. By closing both schools, the district anticipates saving approximately $3.3 million, while closing just one would have resulted in savings of between $1.6 million and $2 million.
Impact of Budget Cuts
The budget issues facing the Hudson School District are extensive, compounded by revenue caps that have remained stagnant since 2010. The district has been striving to find ways to manage its finances while maintaining educational standards. The decision to close the two elementary schools was viewed as a necessary measure to ensure the district’s financial stability moving forward.
Following the board’s vote, plans are being developed for new elementary school boundaries, which are expected to be finalized by February 2026. Additionally, school staff will receive information regarding potential reassignments or layoffs by March and April 2026. The district also plans to create new transportation routes over the summer in preparation for the upcoming changes.
Community Reaction
Some board members showed a desire to pause the decision-making process to explore alternatives to the closures. However, a motion to table the discussion did not receive a second or go to a vote.
The community has previously raised concerns about the impacts the closures may have, particularly regarding students with special needs. In response to the negative sentiment surrounding the closures, many parents have expressed intentions to withdraw their children from the district in favor of private schooling or other educational options.
Moving Forward
The Hudson School District has committed to maintaining open lines of communication with families during this transition period. As the district navigates the complexities of reorganization and budget management, it remains aware of the significant role elementary schools play in the fabric of the community. The board emphasized their understanding of the emotional consequences that this decision holds for families, acknowledging the schools’ place in the hearts of many residents.
As the district prepares for the upcoming changes, there will be a strong focus on ensuring that all families are informed and supported throughout the transition process. The Hudson School District acknowledges the concerns raised by families and is working diligently to adapt to the new reality while striving to provide a quality education for its students.
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Additional Resources
- KSTP: Hudson School Board Votes to Close 2 Elementary Schools
- CBS News: Hudson Wisconsin Elementary School Closures
- Hudson Star Observer: School Board Plans Closure Decision
- Fox 9: Hudson School Board Votes to Close Schools
- KSTP: Parents Speak Out Against School Closures
- Wikipedia: Hudson, Wisconsin
- Google Search: Hudson School District
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wisconsin
- Google News: Hudson School Closures
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