Oshkosh, WI – The Oshkosh School District is giving families, neighbors and local citizens a direct voice in naming the new westside middle school that will replace the former Shapiro STEM Academy at 1050 W. 18th Avenue. The school is slated to open its doors for the 2028‑2029 academic year, welcoming students currently attending Perry Tipler and South Park Middle Schools.
How to participate
Residents can share their suggestions by completing an online survey that remains open until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 28. The survey asks participants to propose names that reflect the community’s heritage, geography, landmarks, or honor deceased individuals who have made a lasting contribution to education or the well‑being of Oshkosh, the state of Wisconsin, or the nation.
What happens next
All responses are advisory, but the district’s Facilities and Finance Committee will review every suggestion. The committee will narrow the list to a set of finalists, which will be presented in a second survey launching in early October. That follow‑up poll will let voters choose their favorite among the finalists. The results will be forwarded to the Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) board, which retains final authority under board policy 7250.01 to select the school’s official name.
Future mascot selection
Once a name is approved, the district plans to involve future students, families and staff in selecting a mascot that embodies the spirit of the new school. This two‑step approach underscores the district’s commitment to community‑driven decision‑making and reinforces the role of parents and local leaders in shaping the educational environment.
Why community input matters
School naming decisions have long been a way for neighborhoods to celebrate shared values and local history. By inviting input from Oshkosh residents, the district honors the tradition of parental involvement and ensures that the new middle school will carry a name that resonates with the families it serves. This process also reflects the district’s respect for the Constitution‑guaranteed right of citizens to participate in local governance.
Key dates and links
- Online naming survey closes: Monday, Sept. 28, 11:59 p.m.
- Second‑round finalist survey launches: early October (exact date to be announced)
- Projected school opening: 2028‑2029 school year
- Location: former Shapiro STEM Academy site, 1050 W. 18th Avenue, Oshkosh, WI
Residents can access the survey through the Oshkosh School District’s website. For additional information, contact the district’s Facilities and Finance Committee at (920) 555‑1234 or visit the district office at 150 E. College Avenue.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
