News History

SHS Senior Simon Mehring: A Year in the Life of a Senate Page

A current senior at Stoughton High School, Simon Mehring embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity last spring: serving as a Senate Page in Washington, D.C. This prestigious program offers students the chance to experience firsthand the inner workings of the United States government. From the early morning hours to late-night floor sessions, Simon's journey was filled with both challenges and incredible rewards.

A current senior at Stoughton High School, Simon Mehring embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity last spring: serving as a Senate Page in Washington, D.C. This prestigious program offers students the chance to experience firsthand the inner workings of the United States government. From the early morning hours to late-night floor sessions, Simon's journey was filled with both challenges and incredible rewards.

1. What was an average day like as a Senate Page? 
Each day started bright and early at 5:00 am, we would then attend school for around 4 hours. After finishing school in the same building as our dorms we would walk roughly 5 minutes to the United States Capitol building. From there we would work on the Senate floor until it adjourned for the day. Sometimes we got off at 4:00 pm, while other nights we would work all through the night. However no two days were ever the same, sometimes we would have hours of extra time to do homework and talk with friends while other times we would be swamped all day with work and need to do homework late into the night. Our work consisted of many things. We would prepare the Senate Chamber each morning before our daily floor sessions, we would set up senators' desks, run errands for them, and support the staff that worked to keep the Senate running each day. My favorite errand was delivering messages from the President to different senate committees, they would come in this big manilla envelope with bold type saying “Message: The President of the United States” and then his signature, I even got to keep one of these envelopes which is a keepsake I'll hold onto for a while. 

2. What were some of the expectations of your role in the program?
I expected the program to be very rigid and have little room for free time or activities. Although the program was very strict we still had many opportunities to relax. I was able to explore Washington DC way more than I ever could have imagined and see what the city had to offer. While at work I expected to be kept away from the action but that couldn't be further from the truth. Pages work directly on the Senate floor, so we were able to interact with senators every single day. We would make small talk, discuss sports or the weather and they even asked us what we thought about politics quite regularly. I was shocked to be so up close to the process when I arrived but so glad I was. 

3. What were some of the unexpected things that occurred during your time as a Page? 
Each day had a different surprise. Oddly enough many celebrities visit Capitol Hill which was super cool to meet them all, my favorite to meet was Jennifer Garner. We also were in DC during the spending fights over how to fund our federal government and the impeachment trial of the Secretary of Homeland Security was a very interesting process to see. All 100 senators had to be present which doesn't happen very often, the entire process is very tense and somewhat intimidating but it was super fun getting to be right in the middle of it. We also had the privilege of attending President Biden's State of the Union address, and the Japanese prime minister's speech to Congress. 

Simon Mehring & Tammy Baldwin

4. How did the program allow you to grow as not just a student but a citizen? 
I had the unique opportunity to see the inner workings of our government. Don't get me wrong, political polarization is at an all-time high, but people still work together, and creating a more civil society is possible. For every partisan and divisive speech, there were 5 speeches on bipartisan and widely supported issues. This program allowed me to see the good still left in our politics and understand many different perspectives on issues. 

5What were the biggest learnings that came from this experience?
I learned how to disagree better. My peers and I disagreed on a lot while I was in DC, simple things like who got to use a laundry machine and when, and where we would eat out for dinner but the nature of working in the US Senate many political debates arose as well. There were many days I was on the winning side of an argument, but probably double the amount of days I wasn't. But I learned that being in the minority did not equate to being wrong. Although being “wrong” and in disagreement with my friends wasn't the best feeling, it helped me learn that disagreements don't mean we can still be respectful to each other. Being surrounded by people I disagree with was super formative to me, it made me a better listener, communicator, and overall more respectful friend. 

6. What did you miss most about home while you were away?
My old routines. I missed simple things I couldn't count on. Coming home to my warm and comfy bed each night. Seeing my friends in class and getting Two Slice every Tuesday. While I was in DC my schedule changed every day, I could rarely count on anything staying the same for more than 5 minutes. The US Senate is a fast-paced environment and our schedules worked around it, so if a floor vote was pushed from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm it didn't matter if I had homework, I needed to stay at work. I definitely took for granted the little things, especially having a sense of control over my schedule. 

Simon & Friend from Page Program

7. What did you typically do on your off time? 
My favorite thing to do was to explore DC, I was a huge metro rider. DC has so much to offer, I loved seeing new neighborhoods and parks. Of course, being DC I spent my fair share of time at different museums and monuments. 

8. What was the transition back home like after the program?
Returning home was a challenge I wasn't expecting. I had a hard time staying motivated to keep up the habits I learned in DC like waking up early and completing all my homework on time. I was also very bored at first, I felt like I had so much extra time on my hands but it was nice because I could relax and find new hobbies. Overall the transition was very bittersweet, just as it was when I first moved to DC. It was hard leaving my newfound friends but it was awesome seeing my old friends again. 

9. Were you recognized at all for your accomplishments as a Page? 
At the end of my term as a Page, I received honors from the US Senate Page School and was one of two students awarded the Principal's Award during our farewell ceremony. 

SASD is incredibly proud of Simon Mehring for his exceptional service as a Senate Page. His dedication, hard work, and insightful observations have undoubtedly made him a valuable asset to the program. We are honored to have had the opportunity to support him on this remarkable journey and are confident that his experiences will continue to shape him into a thoughtful and engaged citizen.

SASD Welcomes New Leadership at SHS and RBMS

The Stoughton Area School District is excited to introduce new leadership at both Stoughton High School and River Bluff Middle School. With fresh faces taking on pivotal roles, the community is eagerly anticipating the positive changes and continued excellence these leaders will bring!

The Stoughton Area School District is excited to introduce new leadership at both Stoughton High School and River Bluff Middle School. With fresh faces taking on pivotal roles, the community is eagerly anticipating the positive changes and continued excellence these leaders will bring!

Stoughton High School

At Stoughton High School, Cassie Jemilo will take the helm as Principal following the retirement of long-serving Principal Mike Kruse. Cassie's vision for the school includes upholding the high standards set by her predecessor while also implementing new strategies to enhance student learning and engagement.

Cassie’s words:

"I am deeply honored to rejoin the Stoughton Area School District! Over a decade ago, we chose to move to Stoughton because we believed in the strength of our school district and fell in love with this wonderful community. My husband and I are proud parents of three Stoughton graduates. With a passion for fostering an equitable and inclusive environment, I am driven by a commitment to serve with joy and compassion. My goal is to uphold the rich traditions of Stoughton High School while embracing new opportunities for growth and continuous improvement. Partnerships with families are crucial to student success and together we can ensure that SHS students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Please feel free to reach out, share your thoughts, and let’s make this an amazing year of learning!"

River Bluff Middle School

Tamara Mouw steps into the role of Principal at River Bluff Middle School. Bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for education, Tamara is poised to lead the school in new and innovative directions. Joining her is Katie Sannes, who will serve as the Assistant Principal. Together, they aim to foster a supportive and enriching environment for both students and staff.

Tamara’s words:

"I come to the principalship at River Bluff Middle School with extensive teaching, administrative leadership, and supervisory experience. I am passionate about creating spaces where students, families, and staff are celebrated for their genius, spaces where they belong and thrive. I am most excited about cultivating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that fosters academic achievement, personal growth, and social responsibility. By centering students’ humanity, we will raise overall achievement and close gaps of inequity. When I do not have my head in a book, I spend as much time as I can outdoors with my two dogs, Miles and Nia. I am an avid runner, hiker, biker, kayaker, golfer, pickle-ball player, skier, and all-around traveler. I am a mom, a daughter, a sister, an aunt. I am also a mindfulness and qigong practitioner."

Katie’s words:

"My name is Katie Sannes and I have been in education for 19 years. I was a Special Education Teacher for 14 years and then became Dean of Students at Kegonsa. I am excited about my opportunity as Assistant Principal at River Bluff as I will get to know new students, staff, and families as well as reunite with previous familiar faces."

Looking Ahead

The SASD community looks forward to the positive impact these leaders will have on their respective schools. With their combined expertise and dedication, the future looks bright for both SHS and RBMS. Welcome, Tamara, Katie, and Cassie!

Stay tuned for more updates as the new academic year unfolds and these leaders begin their journey.

SASD Successfully Passes 2024 Operational Referendum

The Stoughton Area School District is delighted to announce that the Operational Referendum has passed successfully. This development represents a significant stride towards addressing the district's budget shortfall and ensuring essential resources are available to support the district's reading and math objectives.

STOUGHTON, WI, April 2, 2024 — The Stoughton Area School District is delighted to announce that the Operational Referendum has passed successfully. This development represents a significant stride towards addressing the district's budget shortfall and ensuring essential resources are available to support the district's reading and math objectives.

The four-year, stepped-up recurring referendum begins with $4.3 million for the 2024-25 school year, with an additional $600,000 added each year for the next three years. This funding will help to avoid budget deficits, maintain ongoing programs and services, and enable the hiring of additional staff to support students with reading, math achievement, and mental health.

With a total of $6.1 million by 2027-28 and onwards, the Stoughton Area School District will be able to overcome the significant challenges posed by budget constraints and continue to uphold the high standards of education that the district is committed to.

The funds generated from the referendum will be allocated towards various initiatives. These include hiring additional qualified staff and providing necessary resources to enhance learning experiences. The aim is to create a supportive and enriching environment for all students, enabling them to achieve their full potential.

We would like to express our gratitude to all the eligible voters who participated in the April 2, 2024 election. The success of this referendum is crucial for the continued growth and success of our students and the community as a whole.

The next school board meeting will be held on April 8 at 6:30pm at the District Office Board Room. For more information about the Operational Referendum, please visit the Stoughton Area School District website or contact the district administration office at referendum@stoughton.k12.wi.us.
 

Buzzed Into Madison - SASD 4K Featured!

Our Stoughton Area School District 4K program is featured on Channel 3000's Buzzed Into Madison! Host Emmy Fink visited our 4K sites and spent time with our students and teachers, learning more about the program. For all 4K information, head over to our 4K page, or contact Mindy Holverson at 608-877-5404. 

Our Stoughton Area School District 4K program is featured on Channel 3000's Buzzed Into Madison! Host Emmy Fink visited our 4K sites and spent time with our students and teachers, learning more about the program. For all 4K information, head over to our 4K page, or contact Mindy Holverson at 608-877-5404. 

Check out the video by heading to Channel 3000's page!

Stoughton's 'Gobble Wobble' 5K/Walk Run Generates $7K in Funds for School Meals

The Stoughton community came together this past Thanksgiving morning to participate in the annual 'Gobble Wobble' 5K Run/Walk, raising an impressive $7,210 in funds for the Stoughton Area School District's "Chip in for Meals" fund.

The Stoughton community came together this past Thanksgiving morning to participate in the annual 'Gobble Wobble' 5K Run/Walk, raising an impressive $7,210 in funds for the Stoughton Area School District's "Chip in for Meals" fund.

With over 250 enthusiastic participants, this year's event was the largest one yet, bringing together individuals of all ages and fitness levels to support a great cause. The 'Gobble Wobble', held at Level Up Fitness, is a long-standing tradition in Stoughton, organized by Christine Kotlowski and Monique Olson, who have dedicated their efforts to help feed and support the children of the Stoughton Area.

The success of the 'Gobble Wobble' would not have been possible without the generous support of the following sponsors: Level Up Fitness, Bryant Foundation, Stoughton Hospital, Culvers, Dane Dental, Quick Fix Chiropractic, Aaron Weber Group Real Estate, One Community Bank, Fosdal Home Bakery, Clark Heating & Cooling, and Stoughton Lumber. The organizers extend their heartfelt gratitude to these organizations for their invaluable contributions.

Full press release here
 

Stoughton Students Achieve Top Honors in VFW Essay Competition, Advancing to State Finals

Stoughton Area School District is proud to announce the exceptional performance of three students in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) essay competitions. These talented individuals have demonstrated their outstanding skills and dedication, earning top honors at the district level and advancing to the state competition.

Stoughton Area School District is proud to announce the exceptional performance of three students in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) essay competitions. These talented individuals have demonstrated their outstanding skills and dedication, earning top honors at the district level and advancing to the state competition.

Stoughton High School Senior Allie Kolberg showcased outstanding writing skills in her Voice of Democracy audio essay. Her examination of the theme "What are the greatest attributes of our Democracy?" won her a scholarship, and positioned her as the top contestant in our district, which includes Dane County and surrounding areas (Columbia, Dodge, Dan, Jefferson, Waukesha), and now has the exciting opportunity to compete for the state title.

Kira Nielsen, an 8th-grade student at River Bluff, contributed to the district's success by winning first place in the Patriots Pen category. Her written essay, based on this year's theme "How are you inspired by America?", impressed the judges and earned her a scholarship as well as a spot in the state finals. Carlin Comstock, also an 8th-grade student from River Bluff, achieved second place in the Patriots Pen category with an impressive and insightful essay.

These achievements highlight the dedication and talent of the students and the commitment of Stoughton Area School District to fostering intellectual growth and civic engagement. Their success emphasizes the power of education and the importance of critical thinking skills and patriotism in the younger generation. "At the VFW, we're dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote these values in our youth," said Stoughton VFW Post 328 Commander Rob Drogsvold. "Seeing students like Allie, Kira, and Carlin excel is incredibly rewarding, and we are confident they will continue to inspire their peers and contribute positively to our community.”
 

Click here for the full press release.

FabLab Stoughton Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Inspiration with Open House

FabLab Stoughton, a pioneer in digital fabrication and education, is thrilled to announce its upcoming 10th Anniversary Celebration. Over the past ten years, FabLab Stoughton has been a trailblazer in the world of education, providing cutting-edge learning opportunities and serving as an inspiration for FabLabs across the
nation. This milestone event is a testament to the lab's dedication to fostering innovation and creativity, and everyone is invited to join in the festivities.

FabLab Stoughton Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Inspiration


Stoughton, WI — FabLab Stoughton, a pioneer in digital fabrication and education, is
thrilled to announce its upcoming 10th Anniversary Celebration. Over the past ten
years, FabLab Stoughton has been a trailblazer in the world of education, providing
cutting-edge learning opportunities and serving as an inspiration for FabLabs across the
nation. This milestone event is a testament to the lab's dedication to fostering innovation
and creativity, and everyone is invited to join in the festivities.

Event Details
What: FabLab Stoughton 10th Anniversary Celebration
When: 3:50 PM (sharp), Wednesday, November 29th
Where: Stoughton High School FabLab – 600 Lincoln Avenue, Stoughton, WI 53589
(Enter through Door #1)

A Decade of Digital Discovery
FabLab Stoughton's journey began during the 2012-2013 school year when it was built
and assembled. In the fall of 2013, it opened its doors to students, becoming the first
public high school in Wisconsin and the second in the nation to establish a FabLab. The
lab has since offered courses to 9-12 grade students, hosted workshops for community
members, and provided summer school classes for middle-level students, transforming
itself into a vibrant hub of learning and creation.

Setting the Stage for National Recognition
In 2022, FabLab Stoughton served as the backdrop for an episode of "Make48", a
national DIY show broadcast on This Old House and Roku Networks. Stoughton proudly
became the first small city to host the show, the first to host it in a public high school,
and the first to employ an all-student Tool Tech team. This achievement is a testament
to FabLab Stoughton's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and hands-on
learning.

A Beacon of Inspiration
FabLab Stoughton has inspired and facilitated knowledge sharing among 36 school
districts in and around the state. As a testament to its success, other FabLabs, such as
Waunakee, East Troy, Three Lakes, Turtle Lake, Mt Horeb, and Mosinee, have looked
up to FabLab Stoughton as a role model for their endeavors.

A Global Network of Innovation
At the heart of FabLab Stoughton's success is its connection to MIT's Center for Bits
and Atoms, as it serves as an educational outreach component. This connection has led
to the creation of a global network, a distributed laboratory for research and invention,
connecting learners, educators, technologists, researchers, makers, and innovators
across the world.

A Vision Realized
FabLab Stoughton was originally conceived as a three-year experiment to provide
experiential learning opportunities for high school students using digital technology,
including 3D printers, laser cutter/engravers, and computer numerically controlled
(CNC) machinery. Co-founder Mike Connor expressed his astonishment, saying, "This
has gone way above and beyond my wildest dreams."

Unlocking Imagination
Math teacher Chris Wiemer explains that having access to this "prototyping facility" has
made imagination the only limiting factor. He emphasizes that kids excel at imagining,
making the lab's work all the more exciting.

Join the Celebration
FabLab Stoughton's 10th Anniversary Celebration is a free event open to the public,
complete with food and beverages. Student-led tours will be available until 6PM,
providing a glimpse into the incredible world of digital innovation and creativity.


Contact:
Mike Connor
Email: mike.connor@stoughton.k12.wi.us
Website: fablabstoughton.org


Join us in celebrating a decade of innovation, inspiration, and imagination at FabLab
Stoughton's 10th Anniversary event. We look forward to seeing you there and sharing
our remarkable journey of learning, creating, and pushing the boundaries of what's
possible. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the future of education and
innovation!

The Norse Star, SHS Student Newspaper, Wins International Student  Journalism Award

The Norse Star, Stoughton High School student newspaper, has won the prestigious Quill & Scroll award for the 2022-2023 academic year! This award recognizes excellence in journalism at the high school level.

The Norse Star, Stoughton High School student newspaper, has won the prestigious Quill & Scroll award for the 2022-2023 academic year! This award recognizes excellence in journalism at the high school level.

Over the years, the Norse Star has consistently served the student body with top-tier reporting, comprehensive and thorough analyses, and a robust platform where student voices are amplified and heard. The newspaper's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of journalistic integrity and nurturing a community of well-informed citizens is mirrored in this remarkable achievement.

“The Quill & Scroll Award, a symbol of honor and recognition in the field of journalism, is a testament to the immense talent, dedication, and professionalism of our student journalists. It is an honor that endorses their unwavering commitment to impactful storytelling, accurate reporting, and their devotion to delivering nothing but the best,” said Dr. Dan Keyser, SASD District Administrator.

For the full press release, click here.

SASD Honors Local Businesses for Their Support

The SASD Board of Education is proud to announce the recognition of Blue Moon Community Farm and Kicks Unlimited Stoughton for their outstanding contributions to the Stoughton Area School District. In addition, we are pleased to announce that both businesses have received the Wisconsin Association of School Boards' 2023 Business Honor Roll distinction.

The SASD Board of Education is proud to announce the recognition of Blue Moon Community Farm and Kicks Unlimited Stoughton for their outstanding contributions to the Stoughton Area School District. In addition, we are pleased to announce that both businesses have received the Wisconsin Association of School Boards' 2023 Business Honor Roll distinction.

The Business Honor Roll program aims to acknowledge and celebrate local school district business partners who go above and beyond in supporting their community's schools. Blue Moon Community Farm and Kicks Unlimited Stoughton have demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to the education and well-being of SASD students and staff.

Jill Patterson, SASD School Board President, expressed her gratitude for the exceptional support provided by Blue Moon Community Farm and Kicks Unlimited Stoughton: "We really appreciate Blue Moon Community Farm’s dedication to Fox Prairie which has included classroom support and significant dedication to the success of the school’s outdoor garden area. Their contribution has provided our students hands-on exposure to practical applications of classroom science and environmental issues."

Patterson continued, "Kicks Unlimited has been a longtime supporter of Stoughton schools by partnering, sponsoring, and attending numerous school fundraising functions and spreading a positive message of physical fitness, respect, and focus. It’s clear that they are committed to SASD students, families, and schools."

The SASD School Board proudly recognizes Blue Moon Community Farm and Kicks Unlimited Stoughton for their exceptional contributions and extends its heartfelt appreciation for their continued support.
 

Stoughton Voters Approve $48M Facilities Referendum

On Tuesday night, Stoughton community voters approved the two-question facilities referendum to authorize the Stoughton Area School District to address the most pressing long-term facilities needs. 

STOUGHTON, WI, November 9, 2022 — On Tuesday night, Stoughton community voters approved the two-question facilities referendum to authorize the Stoughton Area School District to address the most pressing long-term facilities needs. 

The two-question Facilities Referendum focuses on capital maintenance and addresses safety and security, building systems and energy efficiency, and facility maintenance upgrades. 

Question 1 includes a district-wide investment in near-term capital maintenance and a significant investment in building maintenance, safety, and security. Question 1 final vote counts for the Stoughton Area School District were 7,441 votes in favor and 3,865 votes against. Question 2 seeks to improve safety, security, and traffic flow by adding a new gym addition to River Bluff Middle School and removing the Community Gym. Question 2 final vote counts were 7,060 votes in favor and 4,222 votes against. 

District Administrator Dr. Dan Keyser said the district is grateful to everyone who voted and for the community’s ongoing support and commitment to the school district. “We are going to take this opportunity the community has given us and continue to focus on providing our students and staff safe and high quality learning environments,” Dr. Keyser said. “We are looking forward to beginning the design phase and will keep our community updated throughout this next process.” 

The Stoughton Area School District has been working since 2017 on district-wide facility planning to address critical capital maintenance and educational space needs. 

The District is committed to keeping all stakeholders informed about the referendum. Visit www.stoughton.k12.wi.us/facilitiesplanning to learn more about the solution, tax impacts, and the facility planning process. 


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Award-winning equitable multi-level system of supports at Kegonsa, Fox Prairie and Sandhill

The Wisconsin DPI and Wisconsin RtI Center have recognized our equitable, multi-level system of supports designed to increase the consistency of effective instruction while building staff knowledge and skills to support all learners. Congratulations to our three elementary schools!

All three SASD elementary schools were awarded a bronze medal for behavior from the Wisconsin RtI Center and the Department of Public Instruction!  The Wisconsin RtI Center is inspired by the hard work and dedication that schools and districts invest in their implementation of an equitable, multi-level system of supports.

Kegonsa, Fox Prairie and Sandhill Elementary schools were recognized for our work toward fully implementing a school-wide system that, according to national research, leads to improved student outcomes.

By establishing our equitable, multi-level system of supports, we increase consistency of effective instruction, build staff knowledge and skills to equitably support all learners, use data to proactively identify and provide support for students, and create a positive culture that nurtures relationships with students and their families, and communities. This strong foundation helps learners gain the skills needed to graduate ready for college or a career!

Month of 'readalouds' help students learn about Black history

To help honor Black history and culture during Black History Month, every night we post a video of a student, staff member, community member or guest reading a book. Guests included City of Stoughton Mayor Tim Swadley, State Assembly Rep. LaKeshia Myers (D-Milwaukee) and state Attorney General Josh Kaul and Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes.

Kegonsa's holiday shoe drive: A Success!

Led by the Kegonsa Working for Kids group, staff, students and families are partnering with around a dozen community businesses and organizations to host used shoe drop-off locations. Read more in this Courier Hub article.

District nurse named Nurse of the Year by Wisconsin Association of School Nurses

The Wisconsin Association of School Nurses awards committee is happy to announce that the 2020 recipient of the Kathyrn Etter School Nurse of the Year Award is SASD's district nurse, Laurel Gretebeck!

Kegonsa LMC Image

For the Kegonsa Elementary and Working For Kids group, raising money to help students and staff is part of the game plan. And after gaining some recent acclaim on a downtown billboard for fundraising more than $12,000 for the library, they’re at it again next week – this time on the ice.

For the Kegonsa Elementary and Working For Kids group, raising money to help students and staff is part of the game plan. And after gaining some recent acclaim on a downtown billboard for fundraising more than $12,000 for the library, they’re at it again next week – this time on the ice.

Bronze Level Award

From Unified News Group: "Teaching and modeling proper behavior in young children isn’t always easy for schools, but at Kegonsa Elementary School, the staff has been recognized by two state agencies for being among the best in Wisconsin"

From the Courier Hub: "Teaching and modeling proper behavior in young children isn’t always easy for schools, but at Kegonsa Elementary School, the staff has been recognized by two state agencies for being among the best in Wisconsin"