April 13, 2026 –The Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau School District Board of Education has voted to place a capital referendum question before voters on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The question asks voters for funding to address priority facilities needs to make our schools safer, stronger, and more supportive for day-to-day operations.
The Board’s action follows a multi-step planning process that included an independent facility audit, staff feedback on deficiencies, a community phone survey, and a community task force recommendation.
“The School Board’s unanimous vote was the result of a comprehensive facilities audit, studying both short and long-term facility challenges. We have identified solutions that ensure the future of learning while prioritizing fiscal responsibility,” said Todd Roessler, Board President.
The referendum seeks to address priority infrastructure and educational needs districtwide and includes:
· Safety, security, and accessibility enhancements to strengthen entrance security, update fire alarms and fire protection, and improve ADA access.
· Building infrastructure and site repairs to address critical needs such as aging roofs, masonry, doors/windows, electrical service, heating/air systems, interior finishes, and high traffic sitework (drives/sidewalks).
· Learning and support space updates to key instructional areas—4K/Kindergarten classrooms, special education, libraries, career and technical education spaces, and shared student areas—to better support day-to-day school operations and student learning.
“By carefully listening to stakeholders through community polling and a facility task force, I am confident that we are addressing the needs of our communities for our facilities while providing learning environments where students can continue to grow, excel, and thrive,” said Michelle Butler, District Administrator.
If approved by voters, the referendum will address the facility needs in our district which we cannot address within our annual budget and benefit our district for years to come. This investment would result in an estimated increase of $8 per month ($96 per year) over the current tax rate for every $100,000 worth of property value.
LEARN THE FACTS BEFORE YOU VOTE
More information can be found on the District’s website at GETSchools.ReferendumFacts.org and referendum information meetings (with school tours) will be announced soon to provide community members with an opportunity to learn more about the needs, the plan and the overall investment. Watch for more details in the coming weeks!