WINNECONNE, Wis. – Four days before the start of the new school year, the Winneconne School Board took decisive action by placing District Administrator Peggy Larson on paid administrative leave. The decision, announced by Board President Kati Calewarts, follows concerns raised by community members who have not seen or heard from Larson since early Tuesday, describing the silence as “uncharacteristic” for a veteran of the district.
Board vote and procedural background
The board discussed the matter in a closed‑session meeting on Monday night. After reconvening in an open session, members voted 4‑2 to place Larson on leave while an internal investigation, authorized by the board, proceeds. The board did not disclose the specific agenda item being voted on at the time of the meeting.
Four board members who voted in favor of the leave have documented ties to Moms for Liberty, a national organization that advocates for parental‑rights and traditional educational values. Board member Jill Verich was absent due to a prior obligation, and the two members who voted against the motion did not publicly disclose their reasoning.
Community reaction and recall efforts
Local parents and community activists have expressed frustration over what they perceive as a lack of transparency from the board. The move against Larson has intensified calls for the recall of both President Calewarts and Vice President Dean Ackmann. Critics allege insufficient communication with the public and raise questions about the board’s handling of legal services and other administrative matters.
“We need openness and accountability from those who oversee our children’s education,” said one parent who preferred to remain unnamed. “When a longtime administrator is suddenly placed on leave without clear explanation, it erodes trust.”
Next steps for the district
Communications intended for Larson should be directed to Director of Learning Joe Pitsch, according to the board’s statement. The internal investigation’s scope and timeline have not been disclosed, but the board indicated that findings will be shared with the community once the process is complete.
Larson has served the Winneconne school district for 31 years, holding various leadership roles before assuming the district administrator position. Colleagues described her as a dedicated professional who has contributed significantly to the district’s operations and student outcomes.
Implications for the upcoming school year
With the school year set to begin on September 7, the board faces the challenge of ensuring a smooth transition for district leadership while maintaining continuity of services for students, teachers, and staff. The board’s decision underscores the importance of oversight and the community’s demand for transparency in school governance.
As the investigation proceeds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the board addresses the concerns raised and whether the recall petitions gain sufficient momentum to trigger a formal recall election.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
