Hudson, October 15, 2025
News Summary
The Hudson School District Board has voted to close Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools due to budget shortfalls, a move anticipated to save approximately $3.3 million. The decision faced significant opposition from parents and community members, highlighting the schools’ importance to the local community. The closures will take effect at the end of the 2025-26 school year, with new school boundaries and potential staff layoffs planned for the following year.
Hudson School District Board Votes to Close Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools Amid Budget Shortfall
The Hudson School District Board has voted to close Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools, with the decision being finalized at a meeting on Monday night, October 13, 2025. The closure of both schools is set to take effect at the end of the 2025-26 school year, a move anticipated to save the district approximately $3.3 million.
The decision comes amidst significant opposition from parents and community members who voiced their concerns during the meeting. Many expressed deep emotional distress over the closures, with parents highlighting the importance of these schools to the community. The board recognized the emotional impact of the closures but ultimately decided on this course of action due to pressing financial constraints.
The Hudson School District has been grappling with budgetary issues stemming from declining enrollment and state funding that has not kept pace with inflation. Board member Megan Rozowski emphasized that without adequate funding, the district would struggle to educate its students effectively. The district’s financial difficulties have been further exacerbated by revenue caps that have remained stagnant since 2010.
Initially, the board considered the option of closing just one of the elementary schools, which could have saved between $1.6 million and $2 million. However, the consensus among board members led to the decision to close both institutions instead, reflecting a necessary move in light of the district’s financial projections.
In the wake of the vote, the district has indicated that new elementary school boundaries will be determined by February 2026. Additionally, staff reassignments and potential layoffs will be communicated to affected individuals in March and April 2026. As part of the transition, new transportation routes will be developed over the summer in preparation for the school closures.
While some board members recognized the practicality of the decision to close the schools, they also acknowledged the difficult emotional consequences for families. One member proposed pausing the decision-making process to explore alternatives, but the motion was not seconded, leading to the final vote to proceed with the closures.
As the district moves forward with these changes, the emphasis remains on addressing the financial challenges while understanding the profound significance of Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools to the community.
Key Details About the School Closures
- Vote Result: 6-1 in favor of closing both schools.
- Closure Date: End of the 2025-26 school year.
- Total Estimated Savings: Approximately $3.3 million.
- New Boundaries Decision: Expected by February 2026.
- Layoffs Communication: To be announced in March and April 2026.
Community Reactions
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly focused on the emotional wellbeing of families affected by the closures. Many parents and community members have expressed their disappointment, highlighting the integral role that these schools have played in fostering a sense of belonging and support in the community.
Future Plans
The district has stated its commitment to maintain open lines of communication with families as it transitions into new arrangements. This includes developing new transportation routes to accommodate students moving to different schools.
FAQ
What schools will be closed?
The Hudson School District Board has voted to close Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools.
When will the closures take effect?
The closures are scheduled to occur at the end of the 2025-26 school year.
How much money will the closures save the district?
The closures are expected to save the district approximately $3.3 million.
What are the reasons for the closures?
The closures are primarily due to budgetary challenges stemming from declining enrollment and inadequate state funding.
What will happen to the staff at these schools?
Staff reassignments and potential layoffs will be communicated to affected staff members in March and April 2026.
How will transportation be affected?
New transportation routes will be developed over the summer in preparation for the school closures.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Vote Outcome | 6-1 to close both schools |
| Closure Effective Date | End of 2025-26 school year |
| Projected Savings | Approximately $3.3 million |
| New School Boundaries | Expected by February 2026 |
| Staff Communication Timeline | March and April 2026 for updates |
| Transportation Plans | New routes to be developed over summer |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Evanston Community Opposes Closure of Dawes Elementary
Evanston School District 65 Faces Financial Crisis Amid School Closures
Evanston-Skokie District 65 Faces School Closure Challenges
Challenges and Opportunities in Construction and Real Estate Sector
Bus Driver Shortages Disrupt Schools in Ohio and Michigan
Olympia School Board Candidates Address Budget and Safety Issues
Kannapolis, NC Building Boom Sparks Construction Expansion
Middle Tennessee Schools Closed Due to Weather and Flu
Hudson School Board Faces Decision on Elementary School Closures
Fatal Incident at Lytle Construction Site
Additional Resources
- KSTP: Hudson School Board Votes to Close 2 Elementary Schools
- CBS News: Hudson Wisconsin Elementary School Closures
- Hudson Star Observer: School Board Plans Closure Decision
- Fox 9: Hudson School Board Votes to Close Schools
- KSTP: Parents Speak Out Against School Closures
- Wikipedia: Hudson, Wisconsin
- Google Search: Hudson School District
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wisconsin
- Google News: Hudson School Closures
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
