The Eau Claire Area School District Board ... IN ACTION.

 

Above: Last night's meeting, jam–packed with
art lovers/supporters. Below: Overflow.

The upcoming referendum weighed heavy at last night’s lengthy Eau Claire Area School District board meeting. First up: the ENGAGE chart school contract. Generally supporting the concept – but citing bad timing and a lack of funds – the board unanimously voted down a proposed contract for ENGAGE Public Creative Arts & Culture Charter School. Shortly after, the board acknowledged a high priority for restoring elementary art class time – from 45 minutes per week back to 60 minutes per week. Such a move would hopefully course-correct what’s become a dysfunctional program (since the board cut funding/class time two years ago).

The board unanimously voted down ENGAGE. Later in the meeting, it acknowledged a high priority for restoring elementary art class time – from 45 minutes per week back to 60 minutes per week.

More than 40 people signed up to speak during the public forum last night, many in favor of restoring elementary art, several in favor of the ENGAGE Charter School (and a handful supporting both). Of course, a smaller contingent spoke against ENGAGE as well. While the board did encourage ENGAGE organizers to keep exploring the idea and possibly try again next year, several factors relating to state mandates and grants will make the process difficult for the charter school.

This afternoon, the ENGAGE governance board is expected to release a statement via email their website to its hundreds of supporters – and the general public – indicating their desire to move forward and explore new options for the school.