News Summary
In a difficult decision, the Hudson School District has approved the closure of Houlton Elementary and Willow River Elementary Schools due to financial challenges. The Board’s 6-1 vote came amidst community protests, as parents expressed distress over the impact on students. The district cites declining enrollment and budget cuts as reasons for the closures, which are expected to save approximately $3.3 million annually. Parents are considering alternative educational options as the district works to communicate plans for future transitions.
Hudson, Wisconsin — School District Board Approves Closing Two Elementary Schools Amid Budget Challenges
The Hudson School District in Hudson, Wisconsin, has voted to close Houlton Elementary School and Willow River Elementary School, with the decision officially confirmed during a board meeting held on Monday night, October 13, 2025. This move is set to take effect at the end of the 2025-26 school year.
Majority Vote and Immediate Community Response
The district board voted 6-1 in favor of closing the two elementary schools, despite significant opposition from parents, families, and community members. During the meeting, around three dozen individuals voiced their concerns, many imploring the board to reconsider the closures. The emotional reaction from parents was palpable, with many expressing feelings of sadness and disappointment. One parent shared feelings of distress, emphasizing the emotional toll the closures would have on students and families.
Financial Pressures and Reasons Behind the Closure
The decision stems from ongoing budgetary issues faced by the district, largely driven by decreasing student enrollment and inadequate funding from the state. According to district officials, declining enrollment has reduced revenue, intensifying financial stress. Additionally, the district’s revenue caps, which have been in place since 2010, have not kept pace with inflation, further restraining the district’s financial capacity.
As a result, the district estimates that closing both schools will save approximately $3.3 million annually. Economically, closing just one of the schools would provide a savings between $1.6 million and $2 million. These savings are considered vital for balancing the district’s overall budget and funding other essential educational services.
Impact on the Community and Future Planning
The board acknowledged the emotional impact that these closures have on the community, particularly on families and students who have longstanding ties to the schools. The board members deliberated for nearly 90 minutes before voting, with some suggesting alternative solutions. For example, one member called for a pause in the decision to explore other options, although this motion was not seconded or brought to a vote.
Looking ahead, elementary school boundaries are expected to be reviewed and determined by February 2026. The district plans to communicate preliminary plans for staff reassignments and potential layoffs in March and April of 2026. Additionally, new transportation routes will be developed during the summer, in preparation for the transition to new school arrangements.
Community Concerns and Future Educational Options
Community members, especially parents, voiced concerns about the implications of the closures for students with special needs and the overall impact on the community’s fabric. Many mentioned plans to seek alternative educational options, including enrolling children in private schools or other nearby districts, due to the perceived loss of local schools.
The district also promised to maintain ongoing communication and support for families during the transition period, emphasizing their understanding of the schools’ importance in the community’s history and identity.
Conclusion
The Hudson School District’s decision to close Houlton and Willow River Elementary Schools marks a significant step in addressing their budget difficulties. While the district recognizes the practicality of the closures, the emotional and community-wide effects are deeply acknowledged. The district is now focusing on the logistical aspects of transition, planning boundary adjustments, staff reallocations, and transportation arrangements, with the goal of minimizing disruption for students and families as they move forward.
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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
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