School zone: Staying up to date with Wisconsin Rapids schools
By Taylor J. Hale
MMC Staff Writer
WISCONSIN RAPIDS – City Times staff sat down with Superintendent Craig Broeren to stay up to date with school updates and events. This month, Broeren touched on possible new positions in the district and a school remodeling project.
District could see new occupational therapist
School board members could approve measures that would allow the district to hire another occupational therapist at an upcoming meeting on Jan. 13.
The school system currently has three occupational therapists, and Broeren said a fourth is needed to suit the needs of students and staff.
“The numbers dictate that we have a pretty significant need in the space of occupational therapy and special ed for students,” Broeren explained.
Occupational therapists help students with day-to-day time management, facilitating life skills and more. They also train staff on how to handle behavioral issues and other classroom matters. “What’s a kid’s occupation while at school? Going to school,” Broeren said. “They help kids develop the skills they need.”
Redesign slated for Mead Elementary School
District administrators are working with Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP, on kitchen updates at Mead Elementary School.
The redesign will feature additional preparation space and a larger cooler and freezer.
The proposed plans come in at roughly $17,700, which includes $2,500 for construction administration that would only be charged if the development of the project is approved.
Broeren added that the school had needed updates like this for several years now.
“Primarily, meads one of our older facilities, it’s largely been untouched with regards to construction for many years. It’s time for an update to get it more up to standards,” Broeren said. Follow the City Times for a complete update on the Mead Elementary Kitchen redesign project.
Contact Taylor J. Hale at [email protected] with Wood County info or tips.