Hudson, WI, October 12, 2025
News Summary
The Hudson School Board is scheduled to meet to discuss the potential closure of Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools due to ongoing budgetary constraints. Superintendent Nick Ouellette confirmed the consideration of closing one or both schools, with estimated savings of up to $3.3 million. The community has voiced strong opposition to the closures, emphasizing the schools’ importance to local families. The final decision is expected by October, as parents and residents request more information and time to react.
Hudson, WI – The Hudson School Board is set to make a critical decision on the potential closure of Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools in response to ongoing budget pressures. A meeting scheduled for Monday at 6 p.m. in the high school auditorium will discuss the future of the schools as part of the board’s agenda focused on long-term facility planning and possible school closures.
Superintendent Nick Ouellette confirmed that the school board is contemplating closing one or both elementary schools in light of financial challenges within the district. The board had previously voted on August 11 to close at least one school, a decision that has prompted considerable feedback from the community, much of which has expressed opposition to the closures.
Financial projections indicate significant savings may be realized from closing the schools, with estimates suggesting that closing both Houlton and Willow River could save the district approximately $3.3 million. Specifically, closing Houlton alone is estimated to save $1.5 million, while just closing Willow River could yield savings of $2 million. However, community members have criticized these estimates, arguing that the district has not adequately considered the potential long-term impacts of families leaving the area following a closure and the inevitable reductions in staff.
The Town of St. Joseph, home to Houlton Elementary, has issued a statement opposing its closure. The statement emphasized the critical role Houlton has played in the community for over 75 years, highlighting its contributions to providing excellent education to local residents. Community members have echoed these sentiments, voicing concerns over the closures and emphasizing the strong neighborhood ties surrounding both Willow River and Houlton.
School Board member Molly Powers noted that the community’s comments reflect widespread distress over the proposed closures. The board is faced with a challenging situation, balancing the financial needs of the district with the community’s emotional ties to these schools. The decision is also complicated by the district’s ongoing budget challenges stemming from declining enrollment figures and state revenue limits that have not kept pace with inflation since 2010. To address these financial difficulties, the district has already implemented staffing cuts and anticipates an ongoing financial shortfall that will affect basic operational costs.
Parents and members of the community have requested more time and information before the school board makes its final decision regarding closures. The board is expected to finalize its findings and next steps regarding school closures by October. Recent discussions among board members have revealed their personal experiences with school transitions, illustrating the emotional challenges families face as they consider the implications of potential school closures.
Community Response
The potential closure of the elementary schools has sparked a significant response from parents and community residents alike. Many are advocating for the continued operation of both Houlton and Willow River due to their longstanding role as educational resources within the community.
Important Dates
- August 11 – School Board votes to consider closure of at least one school.
- Monday – School Board meeting at 6 p.m. for further discussion.
- October – Expected timeline for the school board’s final decision on closures.
Summary of Financial Impact
| School | Estimated Savings |
|---|---|
| Houlton Elementary | $1.5 million |
| Willow River Elementary | $2 million |
| Both Schools | $3.3 million |
FAQ
Why are Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools facing closure?
The Hudson School District is experiencing budget challenges due to declining enrollment and state revenue limits that have failed to keep pace with inflation. Closing one or both schools is considered an option to reduce operational costs.
When will the school board make a decision regarding closures?
The Hudson School Board is expected to finalize its decision on the closures by October, following a scheduled meeting for further discussion.
What are the financial implications of closing the schools?
Closing both schools could save the district approximately $3.3 million. Specific savings estimates are $1.5 million from Houlton alone and $2 million from Willow River alone.
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Additional Resources
- Hudson Star Observer: Hudson School Board Plans to Make Closure Decision
- Fox 9: Houlton Elementary Parents Speak Out Against Closure
- Hudson Star Observer: School Board Updates on Closures
- CBS News: Elementary School in Danger of Closing
- Hudson Star Observer: School Board Votes on Closures
- Wikipedia: Hudson, Wisconsin
- Google Search: Hudson School District
- Google Scholar: Hudson School District Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hudson School District
- Google News: Hudson School Closures
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