Superintendent Meeting at Hortonville HS
Today I sat down with the HASD Superintendent, Todd Timm, to listen and learn about what the district could offer to upcoming students. HASD serves approximately 4281 students from many surrounding rural communities. The HASD website is highly informative if you want to learn more about their student services and support systems. (https://www.hasd.org/district/) We discussed two poignant topics. The evolution of their mental health services came first. And proper funding in public education is an investment in long-term solutions.
About 12 years ago after the community lost a student to suicide, educators along with staff asked, “How are we being part of the solution?” This community has grappled with student loss time and again, whether it be from suicide or other unfortunate events. Todd shared that early on therapists were placed in each of the 6 district buildings to remove the transportation barrier to needed support. Programming known as “Sources of Strength” that is student led and guided by teachers was implemented in 2015. HHS was one of the first schools to adopt the initiative in Wisconsin.
Over time, their approach is ever-adapting. As the 2026 schoolyear concludes, campaigns for identifying healthy and trusted adults are in motion. Conversations surrounding Alcohol and Other Drugs, known as AODs, and noting risky behavior are mechanisms to minimize extreme outcomes. The effects of social media, the importance of sleep, and food security for all students and families will continue to influence mental health in our community. We are fortunate to have educators and staff who are invested in students learning at the highest level. For vulnerable students, that means getting their basic needs met first. Nurturing an environment where healthy relationships thrive is the blueprint for self-confidence, academic success, and lifelong learning.
Public schools are a microcosm of society and the perfect petri dish to showcase solutions at work that lead to increased societal and economic health. For too long the rhetoric has been “What’s Wrong” with public schools. The equation to fund them is from 1993, and that is what’s wrong. Media tells us that an average per pupil spending in Wisconsin is $18,000. Is that a fair portrayal of the district who recieves $11,000 per pupil? What does student life look like in district with $21,000 per pupil? What is the value of recess aids, lunch aids, paraprofessionals, and drivers? These are the elements it takes to ensure every student learns at the highest level.
The current reimbursement rate for special education is 35%. Why not be 100% reimbursement rate? Capital designated for public schooling is a direct investment into our communities. Relative to that funding issue, there is more money on a voucher for a private high school student than a public-school student. The private high school is not required to service the student who needs $100,000 in additional support. Right now, according to Fox Cities Advocates for Public Education, $2.5 million dollars is funneled away from HASD via vouchers. With some adjustments to the reimbursement rate and voucher transparency, HASD and other public school systems wouldn’t have to resort to operating referendums. Let’s solve this problem so we can get on to the next one.
