2027 WI State Education Conv

A Consolidation Playbook: Engaging Your Community (Room 102 A/B)

When a high-stakes district restructuring project failed, one Wisconsin school district paused, pivoted and put the community first. This session offers a candid, step-by-step look at how the district transformed a failed consolidation attempt into a collaborative success story. Attendees will discover how leaders rebuilt public trust, moved past initial roadblocks and leveraged authentic community engagement to guide the transition. Through practical strategies and lessons learned, presenters will share a replicable blueprint for navigating the political, emotional and logistical challenges of district reorganization, proving that a united community is the foundation of a successful consolidation.