SHELL LAKE, WI -- Shell Lake School District Superintendent Todd Felhofer joined DrydenWire Live! on Friday, February 28, 2025, for a discussion with DrydenWire founder Ben Dryden about the district’s upcoming Operational Referendum on the April 1 ballot.
During the 57-minute conversation, Felhofer addressed the funding challenges faced by the district and explained how the referendum would impact academic programs, student services, and school operations. He also responded to questions from viewers who tuned in live on DrydenWire’s Facebook page.
Here's a summary of the key points discussed on today’s show:
Why is this needed?
- Uneven funding system: Over 30 years of revenue limits have led to an unequal distribution of funding for schools.
- Rising educational costs: School funding hasn’t kept up with the increasing costs required to properly educate students.
- Shell Lake’s position: The district ranks 414th out of 421 school districts in terms of per-pupil funding, which highlights the disparities.
Why are the mill rate projections lower?
The lower mill rate projections compared to November are largely due to the district's strategic financial moves, specifically the use of defeasance and prepayment of debt. By reducing existing debt obligations, the district has created 'cap space'—essentially freeing up funds that were previously committed to future interest payments.
How will the money be spent?
- High-quality academic programs and career/technical education.
- Academic support for students.
- Recruitment and retention of highly qualified teachers and staff.
- Athletic and extracurricular programs.
- Proper maintenance of buildings and grounds.
Impact if the referendum fails:
- Staff reductions: This could result in larger class sizes, fewer electives, and less student support.
- Resource shortages: There could be a lack of supplies, equipment, and technology.
- Reduced cleaning and maintenance: Daily cleaning may be cut back, and deferred maintenance could lead to further issues down the road.
Watch the full episode now on DrydenWire’s YouTube channel and Facebook Watch—or stream it below!
DrydenWire Live! is presented by Americans for Prosperity-Wisconsin (AFP-WI), an organization committed to advancing policies that promote freedom and prosperity. More information about AFP-WI can be found at afpwisconsin.com.
Last Update: Feb 28, 2025 11:49 am CST
