The University of Wisconsin-Division of Extension is excited to announce the launch of two free interactive workshops, part of a brand-new curriculum aimed at providing education and resources to farmers and rural communities. These workshops will focus on critical topics such as health care, health insurance, and childcare.
The workshops will be led by Stephanie Plaster, Farm Management Outreach Specialist, and Crystal Walters, Human Development and Relationship Educator. They will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, at five locations across the state. The sessions are scheduled from 9:30 AM -11:00 AM and 11:30 AM -1:00 PM, with a break from 11:00 AM-11:30 AM.
Workshop Details: The Health Care session will help participants connect health care needs and insurance to farm and family well-being, manage health insurance as part of farm risk, explore insurance options, and budget for insurance costs. The Child Care session will help participants navigate the impact of childcare on farm life, integrate child care into farm risk management, design family-friendly farm enterprises, and budget for child care costs.
Event Information: ● Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
● Locations: o Neillsville: Clark County Courthouse: 517 Court Street Neillsville, WI 54456 o Oconto Falls: HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital- Assisi Rooms: 855 S Main St. Oconto Falls, WI 54154 o Prairie du Chien: Crawford County Administration Building: 225 North Beaumont Rd, Suite 236 Prairie du Chien, WI o Menomonie: Dunn County Government Center: 3001 US Hwy 12 East, Suite 216 Menomonie WI 54751 o Elkhorn: Government Service Center: 100 W. Walworth St., Elkhorn, WI 53121
● Times: Choose one or attend both. o Child Care: 9:30 AM -11:00 AM o Break: 11:00 AM-11:30 AM o Health Care: 11:30 AM-1:00 PM
Space is limited, so registration is required. For more information and to register, please contact Clark County Extension at 715-743-5121 or visit go.wisc.edu/hiddenchallenges2025 by November 3.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming in compliance with state and federal guidelines. You may request an interpreter, materials in an alternative language and/or format, and/or other services to make this event more accessible. Contact us at crystal.walters@wisc.edu or 715-743-5121 and make your request by Monday, October 20.
Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the UW-Madison Division of Extension.
The following students will represent the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater as student teachers during the fall 2025 semester:
53190 Whitewater, WI: Dawson France, who is majoring in Music and will work in Music at Cambridge High School the Cambridge school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Elyse Hansen, who is majoring in Elementary Education and will work in Elementary & Middle at Washington-Caldwell School the Washington-Caldwell school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Caleb Karlson, who is majoring in Physical Education and will work in Physical Education at Dakota Junior/Senior High School the Dakota CUSD 201 school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Dylan Kleinschmidt, who is majoring in English Education and will work in English at Ft. Atkinson High School the Ft. Atkinson school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: James McCulloch, who is majoring in Undeclared and will work in Theatre at Whitewater High School the Whitewater school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Bradley Morris, who is majoring in Music and will work in Music at Winnebago Middle & High School the Winnebago CUSD 323 school district(s).
53190 Whitewater, WI: Aiden Murray, who is majoring in Physical Education and will work in Physical Education at West Elementary School the Jefferson school district(s).
Students from the university’s College of Education and Professional Studies will serve as student teachers through January 2026.
A total of 179 UW-Whitewater students were placed in school districts around the region starting in August. Student teaching is the final activity before teacher candidates earn their degree and license.
UW-Whitewater will partner with 223 cooperating teachers across 175 schools in 117 districts over the course of the semester.
Student teachers assist cooperating teachers with lesson planning, instruction and assessment. This fall, 42 UW-Whitewater teacher candidates were hired by school districts as student teaching interns as part of the Department of Public Instruction’s Wisconsin Improvement Program (WIP). Interns are licensed by the DPI to teach up to 50 percent of each day on their own and receive a stipend for the semester.
UW-Whitewater licenses the most teachers in the state of Wisconsin. Educating teachers was the university’s original mission during its founding in 1868. To learn more about the College of Education and Professional Studies at UW-Whitewater, visit uww.edu/coeps.
Editor’s note: The students who are listed here have registered with Whitewater as their hometown. The image on the homepage is by Craig Schreiner / UW-Whitewater.
Little Rainbows Play Place is turning one! The beloved family-owned indoor play space opened on October 17, 2024, is celebrating its first anniversary with a Birthday Party Celebration on Saturday, October 18, 2025.
Families are invited to join the fun during one of three time slots — 9:00–11:30 AM, 11:30 AM–2:00 PM, or 2:00–4:30 PM — for a day filled with cupcake decorating, face painting, crafts, open playtime, and a festive balloon drop to close out each session.
Tickets are $8 per child, while adults and infants under 6 months are free. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all. Tickets can be purchased online at www.littlerainbowsfort.com/event-list [Note: in order to choose the second or third time period it’s necessary to “select a different date.]
“We’re so grateful for the incredible support we’ve received over the past year—from our amazing members and families who host parties with us, to our wonderful staff and the Fort Atkinson community,” said Niina and Jason Konz, owners of Little Rainbows Play Place. “This celebration is our way of saying thank you and marking a year full of laughter, learning, and connection.”
Located in Fort Atkinson, Little Rainbows Play Place offers inclusive play for children of all abilities, featuring a large play structure, imaginative play areas, adaptive swings, a baby/toddler zone, and a snack bar. The space is designed to help families connect and create joyful memories together.
Join the celebration and help Little Rainbows Play Place kick off its second year with color, creativity, and community!
Editor’s note: We published the wrong time for this event. It is actually 7:00 p.m. Also, we have been informed that due to the state band competition, patrons are requested to park in lot #1.
Ballet Hispánico – Saturday, October 18, 7:00 p.m. – The Young Performing Arts Center, 800 W. Main Street, Whitewater – All tickets are $40 and may be purchased online. There is an additional $3 per ticket charge at the door. Parking is free – lot #2 is the closest to the venue.
Ballet Hispánico is the nation’s leading Hispanic/Latin dance company and the largest cultural institution of its kind in the United States. For over five decades, it has been a beacon of artistic excellence, celebrated for its bold repertory and exceptional training programs. The Company has commissioned over 100 original works, performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, and inspired generations through performances, education, and community engagement. Recognized as one of America’s Cultural Treasures by the Ford Foundation, Ballet Hispánico continues to redefine what it means to be an American dance company.
From Ballet Hispánico’s website:
Our performances seamlessly blend dance excellence, contemporary innovation, and cultural authenticity, telling stories that resonate across generations and cultures. Featuring works by renowned and emerging choreographers, we have reached over 2 million audience members since our founding. With every movement, our dance works bring to life the vibrant traditions and modern expressions of Latinidad.
From the press:
“Explosive.” – The New York Times
“Infectious…. Playful…” – The New Yorker
“Ballet Hispánico dances with elegance and lyricism.” – The Washington Post
In conjunction with this month’s Wisconsin Science Festival — a celebration of science, art, and technology — the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater department of chemistry will host a chemistry demonstration showcasing the wild and whimsical side of science on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 7 p.m. in room 145 of Upham Hall [771 W. Starin Rd.] on the Whitewater campus.
The event, titled “Bedtime Dreams: The Mystical World of Chemistry — Spicy Spectacles, Magical Reactions, and Rockin’ Science Fun,” is open to the public and is free to attend. Free parking is available in UW-Whitewater’s Lot 14, which can be found on the university’s campus map.
UW-Whitewater faculty and students will show the power of chemistry to create visual, dramatic reactions. The one-hour presentation is light, fun, and fit for families and students of all ages, including high school and college students.
JEFFERSON COUNTY 2025 FALL HOUSEHOLD ELECTRONIC & APPLIANCE RECYCLING EVENT
The Jefferson County Solid Waste Program will be holding an Electronic & Appliance Recycling Event on Saturday, October 18 from 8-11 a.m. at the Jefferson County Fair Park (503 North Jackson Ave, Jefferson). The event is open to all Jefferson CountyHOUSEHOLDS.
You do not need to register for the event! Simply, come to the Fair Park between 8 and 11 a.m. First come, first served. Please note that gates may close prior to 11 a.m. if there is a large turnout. Cost:$10 per vehicle (cash only).
Editor’s note: Jefferson County has previously indicated to The Banner that residents of the City of Whitewater are welcome to participate in their events, regardless of whether they live in Jefferson or Walworth County.
It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. This week’s image is from the early 20th century of an unidentified man by the Whitewater Passenger Depot. In the background are buildings that were demolished in the 1960s for the fire department building and the later-added municipal building. The building with the tower is the 1888-constructed commercial building that housed the Dierfeld grocery store for decades. When it was completed, it was described as one of the most elegant buildings in the downtown. The museum has the plans for this building executed by Henry Messmer, a prominent Milwaukee architect.
Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.
Editor’s note: Samuel Karns has instituted a new newsletter, which he wishes to be accessible to all community members, including those who do not have children enrolled in the district. The complete Superintendent Newsletter, which may be found online, contains some additional information including Nelson Bus, health services, and more photos. In the future we may select a few highlights of the newsletter while offering a link to the online document.
Good afternoon Whippets Nation!
We are off to a great start to the school year with lots of learning happening both inside and outside of the classroom. The month of September is Attendance Awareness, and here are some tips to help ensure your child’s success: #AttendanceMatters
Set a consistent bedtime and morning routine.
Schedule appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.
Reach out to teachers or staff if your student is struggling.
Celebrate good attendance milestones together.
Let’s work together to build strong habits that support student success. We are wrapping up our Third Friday Counts, and this is important because every student who was in class counts towards our state funding in the Whitewater Unified School District.
September 15th marked the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, which continues until October 15th. Please check in with your child’s school to see how they are celebrating and recognizing the contributions that the Hispanic community has made for our nation. We want to give a congratulations to our High School for receiving a grant to launch Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), an international student-led organization that will open doors for our students to explore healthcare careers while developing leadership and teamwork skills.
We are calling all community partners! If you or someone you know is interested, please share the link below titled “Community Partnership Interest Form,” or fill it out so we can connect.
We hope everyone enjoyed the powder puff game, and the amazing lip sync competition this past week at the high school. Congratulations to the Juniors for winning the lip sync competition for this year! We hope everyone enjoyed our community tradition of the burning of the “W” to strengthen our school and community culture. As we close out September, we look forward to homecoming festivities, including the homecoming dance and our football game against East Troy. Thank you to all who donated goods for Cram the Bus. Please note that there is also no school for students on Monday, September 29th as it is a teacher in-service day. Remember that all of the red boxes throughout this newsletter are typically interactive links for you to click on if you need more information.
There is a lot of great information in this newsletter, so please read through it thoroughly, and reach out if you have any questions.
This year, our middle school and high school are beginning an exciting journey as we explore AVID—Advancement Via Individual Determination. AVID is a nationally recognized program designed to equip all students with the skills, strategies, and mindset needed to thrive in school, college, and beyond.
At the heart of AVID are its primary learning strategies, known as WICOR:
Writing to learn and communicate effectively
Inquiry through questioning and critical thinking
Collaboration to problem-solve and learn from peers
Organization to manage learning and responsibilities
Reading to analyze, understand, and apply knowledge
Together, these strategies support students in every content area, strengthening both academic skills and confidence. This Fall, our dedicated staff are engaging in collaborative learning to better understand and apply WICOR strategies in classrooms.
On September 12, 2025 we joined schools across the nation in celebrating AVID Day—a day to recognize and honor the vision of AVID and to build excitement for what lies ahead. Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, both our middle school and high school will launch AVID Elective classes, which will provide students in the program with even deeper skill development and personalized support. An AVID learner is one who demonstrates determination, embraces challenge, and uses tools like WICOR strategies to succeed. AVID creates a schoolwide culture where every student is capable of success, and no one is excluded from opportunity.
We are thrilled to bring AVID to our schools, knowing it will strengthen teaching and learning for all students. Over the coming months, we will share more information and updates as our teams continue to learn and plan together. Thank you for your partnership in supporting our students’ success. The best is yet to come!
With enthusiasm,
Terilyn Robles Director of Teaching & Learning Whitewater Unified School District
We are excited to share that this year our school district again is using the 7 Mindsets Curriculum in Grades 4K-8 to support the social and emotional growth of our students. This program is designed to help children develop positive mental habits, build strong relationships, and increase their self-confidence—all essential tools for academic success and lifelong well-being.
💡 What is the 7 Mindsets Curriculum?
The 7 Mindsets is a research-based program that teaches students how to live lives filled with purpose, passion, and meaning. Rather than focusing only on behavior, this curriculum empowers students to develop a positive mindset that influences how they approach challenges, relationships, and goals.
Each mindset introduces core social-emotional learning (SEL) skills through engaging activities, discussions, videos, and reflection. The goal? Help students understand that their thoughts shape their lives—and that they have the power to choose those thoughts!
🧠 The 7 Mindsets Overview
Here’s a brief look at each of the 7 Mindsets your child will be exploring:
Everything is Possible
Teaches students to dream big, embrace creativity, and believe in their ability to grow and succeed.
Focus: Growth mindset, resilience, and goal setting.
Passion First
Encourages students to discover what they love and find ways to incorporate their passions into their lives.
Focus: Self-awareness, strengths, and motivation.
We Are Connected
Builds empathy, respect, and strong relationships by helping students recognize the importance of community and collaboration.
Focus: Social awareness and relationship skills.
100% Accountable
Empowers students to take ownership of their actions, choices, and attitudes.
Focus: Responsibility, integrity, and problem-solving.
Attitude of Gratitude
Promotes a positive outlook by helping students focus on the good in their lives and the world around them.
Focus: Optimism, gratitude, and emotional regulation.
Live to Give
Teaches students the joy and purpose found in serving others and making a difference.
Focus: Kindness, compassion, and contribution.
The Time is Now
Helps students develop focus, mindfulness, and a proactive mindset.
Focus: Presence, goal-setting, and using time wisely.
🏠 How You Can Support at Home
You are a vital part of your child’s learning journey! Here are a few ways to reinforce the 7 Mindsets at home:
Talk about it: Ask your child what mindset they’re learning about and what it means to them.
Model it: Share stories about how you apply these mindsets in your own life.
Celebrate growth: Recognize when your child demonstrates a mindset, like showing gratitude or taking responsibility.
❤️ Our Commitment
We believe in educating the whole child, and the 7 Mindsets Curriculum helps us do just that. Together, we can build a community of confident, kind, and resilient learners who are prepared to thrive in school and beyond.
If you have any questions or want information about resources please contact me at lheim@wwusd.org or 262-472-8712. I will get back to you or have a member of the pupil services team reach out to you with information. Thank you for being our partner in supporting your child’s growth!
Warmly, Dr. Lanora Heim, Director of Pupil Services
The Whitewater Unified School District is always looking for great people to join our team! If you are excited to work in a positive, collaborative, and student-focused environment, we are interested in meeting with you to discuss the many opportunities to serve in many different ways. Click the red button below to view our current opportunities. Apply online by following the links or reach out to the person of contact on the posting.
Each year, September 15-October 15, our schools come together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Students and staff honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans through classroom learning and schoolwide activities. From cultural displays and music to stories, guest authors, projects, and student-led presentations, these activities give our school community the opportunity to learn from and celebrate the rich diversity of our students and families. We are proud to recognize and honor the many ways Hispanic heritage enriches our district and community.
Camera and Security Projects on existing buildings are coming to a close. Punchlist items have been created and training for internal stakeholders on the new cameras system has been completed. I have heard positive feedback regarding the new system in regards to features and functionality. We are waiting on some cameras and parts to complete some of the identified blindspots within the buildings.
We have begun working on upgrading our structured cabling within our buildings. These projects are being performed based on capital maintenance plan approval by the board last June. Washington Elementary will receive the first set of new cabling upgrades in floor 1 and floor 3 of the building. Middle school will also see upgrades in the near future.
We have completed the schematic design phase for the referendum and are moving forward to the design development phase. The schematic design budget from the construction manager indicated that we are on track to continue moving forward as planned, no major adjustments needed at this time.
We are also in the middle of the RFP process for the referendum projects that the district is managing outside of the scope of the construction management firm.
Our safety team has been hard at work finalizing the plans for the district wide staff safety training scheduled for the end of the month of September.
Editor’s note: Before/after, expanded versions of the photos below may be found in the online newsletter.
Our high school sports are about halfway through their season, while middle school sports are just beginning competitions. We are excited to be back on the newly painted floor in the main gym at the high school. In addition to getting ready for a big week of games and competitions for Homecoming next week, we will be hosting the conference cross-country meet at UWW in mid-October!
October is Manufacturing Month and Careers in Construction Month, and our students are taking full advantage of the opportunities that come with it. Throughout the month, they will be touring local manufacturing and construction companies and participating in hands-on career fairs. These experiences not only spark career awareness and exploration but also strengthen the important partnerships we share with local businesses and industry leaders.
On Friday, September 19, Whitewater High School proudly hosted the Whitewater Chamber of Commerce’s monthly FIKA event in our library. It was a wonderful chance to showcase how our district is preparing students for real-world success through career awareness, exploration, and hands-on learning. Local business leaders shared valuable feedback about what they look for when hiring youth employees, emphasizing the importance of durable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. The consensus was clear—our partnerships matter now more than ever as we work together to bridge the gap between education and the workforce.
As we continue this work, we are collecting information from community members, organizations, and business/industry partners to help us better support our students, staff, programs, and the wider community. Please take a few minutes to complete our Community & Business Partnership Interest Survey – see below.
Community & Business Partnership Interest Survey
Editor’s note: In order to take the survey that is described below, click on this link to access the Superintendent Newsletter and scroll down to this section.
WUSD Community and Business Partnership Interest Survey/Encuesta de interés establecer alianzas comunitarias y empresariales con WUSD
Whitewater Unified School District (WUSD) is committed to preparing our students for success in career and life. Strong partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and community members play a vital role in creating meaningful opportunities and connections for students, staff, and the Whitewater community at large.
This survey is designed to learn more about your interest in getting involved with WUSD through a variety of partnership opportunities including but not limited to classroom visits, career presentations, work-based learning, internships, sponsorships, and program advisory input.
Your feedback will help us build a network of community and business partners who can support student, staff, and community growth.
Thank you for taking a few minutes to share your interest and ideas!
Nota del editor: Para realizar la encuesta que se describe a continuación, haga clic en este enlace para acceder al Boletín del Superintendente y desplácese hacia abajo hasta esta sección.
El Distrito Escolar Unificado de Whitewater (WUSD) está comprometido a preparar a nuestros estudiantes para tener éxito en su carrera y en la vida. Las alianzas sólidas con negocios locales, organizaciones y miembros de la comunidad desempeñan un papel fundamental en la creación de oportunidades y conexiones significativas para los estudiantes, el personal y la comunidad de Whitewater en general.
Esta encuesta tiene como propósito conocer más sobre su interés en colaborar con WUSD a través de una variedad de oportunidades de asociación, que incluyen, entre otras: visitas a las aulas, presentaciones de carreras, aprendizaje basado en el trabajo, pasantías, patrocinios y asesoría en programas.
Sus respuestas nos ayudarán a construir una red de aliados comunitarios y empresariales que puedan apoyar el crecimiento de los estudiantes, el personal y la comunidad.
Fall Water Main and Hydrant Flushing Program The Whitewater Water Utility will be conducting its semi-annual water main and fire hydrant flushing from Monday, October 20 through Friday, October 31, 2025. This routine maintenance is vital for:
Testing fire hydrants to ensure proper pressure and flow
Verifying that hydrants and valves are operating correctly
Improving water quality by flushing out sediment from the mains What Residents Should Know:
Water Discoloration: Temporary discoloration may occur during or after flushing. If this happens, run a cold-water tap at the lowest point in your home (or an outdoor spigot) for several minutes until the water clears. Repeat as needed after a brief pause.
Laundry Caution: To prevent staining, avoid washing white or light-colored laundry during flushing hours or until your water runs clear.
Water Use Timing: For best results, consider limiting water use until crews have finished flushing in your area.
If unexpected system repairs are needed, flushing may continue into the following week. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this necessary maintenance work. Josh Hyndman, Superintendent Water Utility jhyndman@whitewater-wi.gov (262) 473-0560
Programa de Lavado de Hidrantes y Tuberías Principales de Agua de Otoño Whitewater Water Utility llevará a cabo su lavado semestral de la tubería principal de agua y las bocas de incendio desde el Lunes 20 de Octubre hasta el Viernes 31 de Octubre de 2025. Este mantenimiento de rutina es vital para:
Probar bocas de incendio para garantizar la presión y el flujo adecuados
Verificar que los hidrantes y las válvulas funcionen correctamente
Mejorar la calidad del agua mediante la eliminación de sedimentos de la red Lo que los residentes deben saber:
Decoloración del Agua: Puede ocurrir una decoloración temporal durante o después del lavado. Si esto sucede, abra un grifo de agua fría en el punto más bajo de su casa (o un grifo al aire libre) durante varios minutos hasta que el agua se aclare. Repita según sea necesario después de una breve pausa.
Precaución para Lavar la Ropa: Para evitar manchas, evite lavar la ropa blanca o de color claro durante las horas de lavado o hasta que el agua salga limpia.
Tiempo de Uso del Agua: Para obtener mejores resultados, considere limitar el uso de agua hasta que las cuadrillas hayan terminado de enjuagar en su área. Si se necesitan reparaciones inesperadas del sistema, el lavado puede continuar hasta la semana siguiente. Agradecemos su comprensión y cooperación durante este trabajo de mantenimiento necesario. Josh Hyndman, Superintendente Servicio de Agua jhyndman@whitewater-wi.gov (262) 473-0560
Properties shown with signed agreements to lease their land for the solar project
Editor’s note: As was previously announced on The Whitewater Banner, the Wisconsin Public Service Commission approved the application for a massive “solar farm” to the east of the city. Yvette Loiselle submitted the following announcement on behalf of the intervenors who have vowed to continue with their opposition to the project. The Banner does not have a position on this matter.
We are officially kicking off the fund raising for the Appeal on the Whitewater Solar Project.
We will hold an cCommunity meeting at noon on Saturday, October 18th at the Community Engagement Center, just east of Walmart, with an open house for Q and A and community organizing afterwards until 3 pm. Follow up meeting will be scheduled at a later date.
We will have “Stop Solar” signs on hand with the hopes of increasing our sign footprint out there. We need all hands on deck! We need to pack that room, and gather the funds for the lawyer so we can file our appeal. We think we need $10k for a retainer, and between 50-75K to fight the appeal.
Our goal: get the word out, share information on how people can help, and keep up the resistance. Let’s file this appeal and see if the courts will help us out!
