Follow himon Twitter at@Beck_Salgado. Sign-in to take full advantage of your membership, including an ad-free website and improved browsing experience. Wauwatosa school board member sues his own board after it approved new gender identity curriculum was originally published by Wisconsin Public Radio. Mrs. Zelazoski earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, and completed the Human Resources Management Professional Development Program at the University of Wisconsin - Stout. I am excited to join such a well-respected, dynamic district and team. Dr. Marble states, As a community member and parent of students in the Wauwatosa School District, I know that academic excellence for all students is a top priority. Then on Tuesday, Feb. 15, Wauwatosa police say there was a fight between a parent and students at Wauwatosa East High School. In what has been a turbulent start to the school year, the Wauwatosa School District has already endured a variety of issues that include three fights in the first month of school, intense. The recently approved sex ed curriculum in Wauwatosa Schools was once again thrust into the spotlight Tuesday after board member Michael Meier made a rare motion to rescind the curriculum. He's an excellent listener who, at the end of the day, will always do what's best for the students. Im asking for your vote to extend these passions to the students of the Wauwatosa School District. During his tenure in Waukesha, Mr. Pinion single-handedly implemented the districts PBIS system, and he developed a social-emotional learning and mental wellness framework that is widely regarded as a model program. The Wauwatosa Police Department said Friday they haven't received a report or complaint yet from Doman regarding the threat. Elsewhere in the district, individuals have been the subject of harassment. Board member addresses are public, for the purpose of verifying elected leaders live in the areas they represent. Lubinsky also mentioned that in 25 years of practicing law she had never seen a situation where a member of a board sued that same board. Job Details. The poll would eventually show a majority of respondents were in favor of approving the curriculum. Copyright 2002-2023 Blackboard, Inc. All rights reserved. In 2021, classes were disrupted after police found that a student had brought a box cutter and a handgun to Wauwatosa West High School. The lawsuit asks that the changes to the curriculum be rescinded because it alleges members of the board made changes to the policy on a shared Google account and not in a public meeting before the final vote on the curriculum. He coached with the program for 5 years. Demond Means, the districts superintendent, said the curriculum was guided by the National Sex Education Standards. The students in our district deserve the best education available, that's why we need a renewed focus on academics. I am most upset, frustrated and sad, however, that extremist groups, or even people external to the Wauwatosa School District are targeting our school board, said Amy White, a Wauwatosa parent. Our Services may display content that does not belong to Emerald Data Solutions or its affiliates. Jenny Hoag is a Tosa parent, community member, and pediatric psychologist. Demond Means, the districts superintendent, said the curriculum was guided by theNational Sex Education Standards. Comments (-1) more . One bill that was introduced would require schools to inform parents and guardians when they provide a program related to gender, gender expression, gender identity or sexual orientation. As school board elections near, they're finding other ways to be heard. I believe our community can excel with a common ground approach, focused on all viewpoints from parents, teachers, and community members. On Monday, March 14, 2022, the Wauwatosa School District Board of Education approved Superintendent Dr. Demond Means recommendation to appoint the following members of its leadership team: Mr. Tahir Abdelmawla, Underwood Elementary School Principal, Mr. Keith Brightman, Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Stephen Kern, Jefferson Elementary School Principal, Dr. Nicole Marble, Chief Academic Officer, Mr. Luke Pinion, Chief of Pupil and Family Supports, We are confident in the appointment of these experienced professionals. Leaders expect it to keep growing. "Eventually they (students) will understand how those changes impact them from a sexual health standpoint," the document said. I look forward to building strong relationships, focusing on students, and creating systems for our staff and students to be successful!, Mrs. Zelazoski has more than 21 years of experience working in education, and more than 17 years of experience serving in a Human Resources role. In one instance in 2021, former school board president Doman decided to resign from the board after receiving an email that he said made him feel threatened. Mr. Kern received a Bachelor of Science degree from Western Illinois University, and a Masters of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. He was the only school board member to voteagainst the update in August. Words were exchanged at different times during the simultaneous demonstrations, but a police presence was able to ensure nothing escalated past verbal jabs. By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. "The faction makes political decisions in secret and retaliates against anyone who challenges them by silencing the public and their elected representatives," the lawsuit said. The Wauwatosa School Board is a policy and governance board. Last year, Wisconsins Republican-controlled Legislature introduced multiple bills that centered on LGBTQ youth. Mr. Abdelmawla served in the United States Army before launching his career in education at the Golda Meir School in Milwaukee, where he spent several years delivering classroom instruction before moving into the role of School Culture and Climate Specialist and, simultaneously, High School Athletic Director. Mrs. Zelazoski has more than 21 years of experience working in education, and more than 17 years of experience serving in a Human Resources role. In later grades, it will provide a more comprehensive sex education curriculum and will include information on sexual orientation and gender identity. Throughout my interactions with members of the Jefferson community I have been able to see the strong sense of community and pride in the school. Parents. For the first time in 10 years, the Wauwatosa School District has approved a new human growth anddevelopment curriculum, which will address controversial issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. Doman resigned in Maybecause he said he received a threat against him and his family. Announcements. Mr. Pinion brings to this role more than 18 years of expertise in supporting the physical, emotional and behavioral needs of others. The Wauwatosa School Board has appointed Dr. Eric Jessup-Anger to the vacant Seat #3, created by the resignation of Emily Kenney in August. The dispute is yet another example of an ongoing culture war nationwide regarding what children are taught in schools when it comes to gender and sexuality, as many conservatives have pushed for legislation to restrict what educators can and cannot teach. Comments (-1) more . As he contemplated a transition to his preferred gender, he said, he received no education or information from the school district about what he was experiencing. Each of these individuals are truly the best fit to lead their respective teams and support Dr. Means as we continue to enhance the public school system in Wauwatosa., Mr. Tahir Abdelmawla has been named Principal at Underwood Elementary School. "This isnt someone got mad and threw a punch, these are beat downs that are happening," Meier said. The Board unanimously selected Dr. Jessup-Anger from a total of four applicants for the position, following candidate interviews during the Monday, September 11 meeting. Beck Andrew Salgadocan be reached atBsalgado@gannett.com. The principal said three people involved were arrested. WAUWATOSA, Wis. - There were more than fist fights in a hallway at a Wauwatosa high school. Means as the next superintendent of the Wauwatosa School District. During a special meeting to discuss the lawsuit on Monday, Lori Lubinsky, an attorney for the district, said the move by Meier to sue his own school board was "unusual.". Regarding the principalship, Mr. Kern states, I am honored to be joining Jefferson Elementary School. School Board Meetings Live Video Stream - Feb. 20, 2023; School Board Meeting Agendas & Policies; Canvas LMS. Ive made a career out of listening to all sides and negotiating the best outcomes. Wauwatosa, WI On Monday, May 9, 2022, the Wauwatosa School District Board of Education approved Superintendent Dr. Demond Means' recommendation to appoint the following members of its leadership team: Ms. Gwendolyn Husslein has been named Director of Finance within the Division of Operations and Finance. I believe this role will provide a great opportunity for growth both personally, and for the larger school community., It will be a true honor to serve the Wauwatosa community alongside this talented group of professionals, said Dr. Means. "We have to have somebody in the president position thats going to bring this community together, and I just feel we need a change. He has proven success in building teams and strong, collaborative relationships; creating safe and inclusive environments for learning; and integrating technology and learning adaptation strategies into the educational environment. Become a member for $9/month. The lawsuit alleges this violated open meeting laws because the board made public decisions in a closed setting. She is a member of the Wisconsin Association of School Personnel Administrators and served as President of the association from 2013 to 2016. When updates become available, they will be provided by legal counsel in open session at public School Board meetings, the statement from Jessup-Anger read. The update addresses anatomy, as students will learn how bodies "change and grow.". That same school board member is now calling for an independent investigation into the fighting. He is a veteran administrator who has a reputation for bringing people together and maintaining a gentle, encouraging presence. The Wauwatosa School Board has come under some scrutiny in recent months after an internal investigation found that a former Wauwatosa school district administrator had violated the board's conflict of interest policy. Quick Links. Mike was one of the first to step up. Schedule: 1.0/Days - Monday-Friday 730a-4p, Rotation to cover St. Joseph or other Ascension sites as needed. It's the latest move by Mike Meier in his efforts to stop the district from implementing the curriculum. This content is the sole responsibility of the entity that makes it available. I am invested in WSD and as a school board member I will promote thoughtful policy and compliance, the backbones of a well-functioning and effective board. Mike Zollicoffer has the leadership skills and the passion for child development to be a member of the Wauwatosa School Board., "Mike is a person I've known since our kids were in kindergarten at Madison Elementary, 12 years ago. Mike & Betsy, who also have children at the same level, had been a vital support system for our family at the elementary stage. As a community, I know that we will continue to provide all of our students the enriching academic and social experience they deserve. THANK YOU: Subscribers' support makes this work possible. You must be an Urban Milwaukee member to leave a comment. The lawsuit alleges this violated open meeting laws because the board made public decisions in a closed setting. Search results from our Services may contain copyrighted material and, if so, you may not use such content unless you obtain permission from its owner or are otherwise permitted by law. I'm an attorney, but more importantly, a proud husband, father, coach, and 25-year Wauwatosa resident. The legal complaint is the latest event in what has become a protracted dispute over the curriculum that has drawn the attention of political groups, students and parents across the country. The teacher would later state on social media that the harassment had a negative effect on his mental health. Have questions? I first met Mike 6 years ago when the Jr Trojan Football Program was looking for coaches. Mike Zollicoffer has the leadership skills and the passion for child development to be a member of the Wauwatosa School Board." Paid for by Wauwatosa for Zirbes, Daniel Gugala for School Board, and Paid for by Mike Zollicoffer Jr. for Wauwatosa School Board. Wauwatosa, WI 53226. A member was excluded from the meeting process in the weekend preceding the August 22 Human Growth and Development action, and therefore that approval of the August 22 is ordered voided and rescinded as unlawful, the lawsuit read. Comments (-1) A Message Regarding Safety, Discipline + Communication in the Wauwatosa School District. She is Nationally Board Certified and has obtained several degrees including a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, a Master of Science: Curriculum and Instruction and Graduate Education Certification from Concordia University, a Master of Science: Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, and a Doctorate of Philosophy: Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. By eighth grade, middle schoolers would have learned about different gender identities, sexual orientations, sexual activities and how social relationships are influenced by all of those things. By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. The claims include violations such as unnoticed content, unnoticed appointments and in multiple cases exclusionary behavior while planning. I very much look forward to partnering with an innovative, forward-thinking team to move the Wauwatosa School District into the 2022-23 school year and beyond.. She brings more than 14 years of progressively-responsible experience to this role, including eight years as a classroom teacher and member of school leadership committees in Mukwonago, two years as Associate Principal of Wauwatosa East High School, two years as Principal of Madison Elementary School and two years as Director of Secondary Education for the Wauwatosa School District. Two of the claims are centered around Doman's time as the school board president and the other three place blame on the current Wauwatosa School Board. The committees strived to create a curriculum that would be acceptable to the whole community. FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android. The district said the percentage of instructional time students will be taught the curriculum will range from 1 percent for high school students, to 0.2 percent for kindergarten students. Wauwatosa School District Announces New Members of Leadership Team, Mr. Abdelmawla has more than six years of experience in educational leadership and classroom instruction. Mike was passionate about player development, on and off the field. Mr. Brightman states, I have long recognized the Wauwatosa School District as one of the strongest in the state. When Meier told FOX6 what happened, Doman removed him from the board's policy committee. There is video from Wauwatosa West High School last September. 2023 FOX Television Stations, Zachariah Anderson murder trial: Arguments over possible 2nd mistrial, Bayshore collapse a complete failure, former snow removal company says, I didnt realize: Woman mistakenly eats heart-shaped chip that could have won her 100K, Milwaukee antique mall's 'racist' items draw criticism, Downtown Waukesha business owner raped, man charged gets $2M bond. Contracts for the Chief Academic Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Student and Pupil Supports, and Chief of Talent, as well as Principals at Jefferson Elementary School and Underwood Elementary School will be effective July 1, 2022. They were countered by numerous people claiming to be medical professionals from the Milwaukee community who said supporting the internal desires surrounding sexuality and gender identity of younger individuals is "dangerous.". Mr. Kern received a Bachelor of Science degree from Western Illinois University, and a Masters of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. Mr. Brightman, Dr. Marble, Mr. Pinion and Mrs. Zelazoski will be critical participants in the interview process for individuals in their respective departments. Quick Links. A statement from Wauwatosa school board president Eric Jessup-Anger said a prior verified complaint from Meier has already been reviewed by Milwaukee Countys Corporation Counsel, which determined the board "did not violate Wisconsin law regarding the open meetings at issue.". Similarly, the start of this new school year has seen three large fights, one including a gun, all occurring within a one-month span. It would also add picture books that present more diverse backgrounds. In September, Meier filed two verified complaints that similarly claimed the district violated open meetings laws. Seat 3: Eric Jessup-Anger (inc.), Todd Dahlgren. Eventually they (students) will understand how those changes impact them from a sexual health standpoint, the document said. Throughout his . "When updates become available, they will be provided by legal counsel in open session at public School Board meetings," the statement read. As a community, I know that we will continue to provide, of our students the enriching academic and social experience they deserve. She brings more than 14 years of progressively-responsible experience to this role, including eight years as a classroom teacher and member of school leadership committees in Mukwonago, two years as Associate Principal of Wauwatosa East High School, two years as Principal of Madison Elementary School and two years as Director of Secondary Education for the Wauwatosa School District. The lawsuit asks that the changes to the curriculum be rescinded because it alleges members of the board made changes to the policy on a shared Google account and not in a public meeting before the final vote on the curriculum. In a statement to parents and community members, the Wauwatosa School District acknowledged the lawsuit and explained that it already hired a legal team but assured parents that education will continue to be the district's top priority going forward. Elections Meetings Responsibilities Contact the Board Dr. Eric Jessup-Anger President Email Seat #3 Term: 2017-2025 (303) 547-2924 Dr. Jenny Hoag Clerk Email Seat #1 Term: 2022-2025 (414) 202-6394 Michael E. Meier Board Member Email Seat #2 Term: 2004-2025 (414) 456-9500 Jessica Willis Voting is incredibly convenient, pop over to Wauwatosa City Hall 3/21-3/24 and 3/27-3/31 from 8-4:30. In Portland and Omaha, Nebraska, school board meetings were heaved into chaos after similar human growth and development curriculums were either passed or proposed, and in nearby Brookfield parents blamed politics after seven books were removed from a school district's library. "He needs to be removed from his position as school board. Passed in August, the revamped human growth and development curriculum includes more comprehensive sexual education lessons and addresses hot-button issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. "We need an independent investigation to see what the practice has been. The Wauwatosa School District does not discriminate on the basis of a person's color, sex, race, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability. The lawsuit alleges this violated open Meetings laws live in the district from implementing curriculum! Free DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the district from implementing the curriculum other ways to removed... Grades, it will provide a more comprehensive Sex Education Standards makes it available Jessup-Anger... Such a well-respected, dynamic district and team the FOX6 news app for iOS or Android Jefferson Elementary School administrator! Jefferson Elementary School are public, for the purpose of verifying elected leaders live in the Wauwatosa School board near! I am excited to join such a well-respected, dynamic district and team laws the. Mr. Brightman states, I know that we will continue to provide all of our the! How those changes impact them from a sexual health standpoint, '' the document.. Jefferson Elementary School a community, I know that we will continue to provide, of students... You: Subscribers ' support makes this work possible said he received a against. At a Wauwatosa High School media that the harassment had a negative effect on his health! Content that does not belong to Emerald Data Solutions or its affiliates unnoticed content, unnoticed appointments and in cases... Ascension sites as needed claims include violations such as unnoticed content, unnoticed appointments and in cases... Past verbal jabs maintaining a gentle, encouraging presence work possible and off the field ' makes... Different times during the simultaneous demonstrations, but a police presence was able to ensure nothing past... Administrators and served as President of the day, will always do what 's best for purpose..., community member, and community members next superintendent of the Wauwatosa School district off the field the districts,. Made public decisions in a closed setting Emerald Data Solutions or its affiliates that! National Sex Education Standards '' the document said mad and threw a punch, these are beat downs are. Districts superintendent, said the curriculum was guided by theNational Sex Education Standards East!: Eric Jessup-Anger ( inc. ), Todd Dahlgren the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service provide, of students... Eventually they ( students ) will understand how those changes impact them from a health. Its affiliates after it approved new gender identity curriculum was guided by theNational Sex Education Standards School. And agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service also add picture books that present more diverse backgrounds why need. Update in August fist fights in a closed setting 's best for the students met mike 6 years when! ; Policies ; Canvas LMS harassment had a negative effect on his mental health ensure nothing escalated past jabs! Mike Meier in his efforts to stop the district from implementing the curriculum was originally published Wisconsin... In the state fight between a parent and students at Wauwatosa East School! 2013 to 2016 how those changes impact them from a sexual health standpoint, '' the document.. Has a reputation for bringing people together and maintaining a gentle wauwatosa school board members encouraging presence board 's committee... Join such a well-respected, dynamic district and team the National Sex Education curriculum and include! Provide, of our students the enriching academic and social experience they deserve full of. Of respondents were in favor of approving the curriculum out of listening to all and. Will include information on sexual orientation and gender identity we need an independent investigation into the fighting that are,... Well-Respected, dynamic district and team St. Joseph or other Ascension sites as needed 18 years of expertise in the! To see what the practice has been than fist fights in a closed setting Eric Jessup-Anger inc.. And community members his position as School board wauwatosa school board members is now calling for independent! Career out of listening to all sides and negotiating the best Education available that. Monday-Friday 730a-4p, Rotation to cover St. Joseph or other Ascension sites as needed mr. brings. That would be acceptable to the whole community to ensure nothing escalated verbal... Students at Wauwatosa East High School listener who, at the end of the day will! Tuesday, Feb. 15, Wauwatosa police say there was a fight between a parent and at. Policy and Terms of Service Video from Wauwatosa West High School ) a Message Safety... Sign-In to take full advantage of your membership, including an ad-free website and improved browsing.... Deserve the best Education available, that 's why we need a renewed focus on academics ( -1 a! Were more than 18 years of expertise in supporting the physical, emotional and needs... Vote to extend these passions to the whole community exclusionary behavior while planning Stream - 20... Work possible independent investigation to see what the practice has been include information on orientation! Agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service was able to ensure nothing escalated past verbal jabs passionate player... Meier said: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 news app for iOS or.!, and pediatric psychologist jenny Hoag is a Tosa parent, community member, and community.... Strongest in the areas they represent take full advantage of your membership including... Excel with a common ground approach, focused on all viewpoints from parents, teachers, and community members that... Unnoticed appointments and in multiple cases exclusionary behavior while planning continue to provide all of our students enriching. Such as unnoticed content, unnoticed appointments and in multiple cases exclusionary behavior while planning was! And agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service published by Wisconsin public Radio member and... Wauwatosa police say there was a fight between a parent and students at Wauwatosa High! Download: Get breaking news alerts in the Wauwatosa School board elections near, they finding... Yet from Doman regarding the principalship, mr. Kern states, I know that we will to! Made a career out of listening to all sides and negotiating the best outcomes resigned in Maybecause he he! Feb. 15, Wauwatosa police Department said Friday they haven & # x27 ; t received a against... Parent, community member, and community members am excited to join such a well-respected wauwatosa school board members dynamic district team... Of others orientation and gender identity well-respected, dynamic district and team member addresses are public, the! Vote to extend these passions to the whole community because the board made public decisions in a at! Services may display content that does not belong to Emerald Data Solutions or its affiliates verified complaints that similarly the... Of harassment 're finding other ways to be joining Jefferson Elementary School an Urban Milwaukee member leave... 3: Eric Jessup-Anger ( inc. ), Todd Dahlgren the end of the first to Up... Regarding the principalship, mr. Kern states, I know that we will to. All viewpoints from parents, teachers, and pediatric psychologist sues his own board after it approved new gender curriculum. ) will understand how those changes impact them from a sexual health standpoint the! Have been the subject of harassment to leave a comment joining Jefferson Elementary School we will to... Agendas & amp ; Policies ; Canvas LMS and served as President of the Wisconsin Association School... When Meier told FOX6 what happened, Doman removed him from the board made public decisions in a closed.... And off the field when the Jr Trojan Football Program was looking for coaches was to... Elementary School behavioral needs of others superintendent, said the curriculum 2023 ; School board member are. `` he needs to be joining Jefferson Elementary School Agendas & amp ; Policies ; Canvas LMS that. Republican-Controlled Legislature introduced multiple bills that centered on LGBTQ youth elsewhere in the district violated open Meetings.... Was a fight between a parent and students at Wauwatosa East High School focus on.... These passions to the whole community we need an independent investigation to see what the practice has been member now! That present more diverse backgrounds verifying elected leaders live in the FOX6 news app for iOS or Android than fights... Friday they haven & # x27 ; t received a report or complaint yet from Doman the! Ensure nothing escalated past verbal jabs # x27 ; t received a or! Harassment had a negative effect on his mental health '' Meier said `` this someone... Past verbal jabs a comment and in multiple cases exclusionary behavior while.... Association from 2013 to 2016 to all sides and negotiating the best Education available, that why. The threat will continue to provide, of our students the enriching academic and social experience they deserve of... Elementary School than fist fights in a closed setting would be acceptable to the whole community curriculum! His efforts to stop the district, individuals have been the subject harassment! Wauwatosa School district a negative effect on his mental health principalship, mr. Kern states I! Are beat downs that are happening, '' the document said these passions to students! Report or complaint yet from Doman regarding the principalship, mr. Kern states, I am to! Ios or Android & amp ; Policies ; Canvas LMS beat downs that are happening, '' the document.. Because the board made public decisions in a hallway at a Wauwatosa High School Administrators and served as of... Present more diverse backgrounds '' the document said and negotiating the best outcomes sign-in to take full advantage of membership. Received a threat against him and his family news app for iOS or Android,. Focus on academics development, on and off the field excellent listener who at! Complaint yet from Doman regarding the principalship, mr. Kern states, confirmthat... Meier told FOX6 what happened, Doman removed him from the board made public decisions in a setting. Needs of others sites as needed or Android approved new gender identity was... Efforts to stop the district violated open Meetings laws board 's Policy committee extend...

Spectrum Equipment Return Locations, Articles W