Strategic Plan

• Multi-Level Systems of Support (MLSS): Strengthening academic (RtI) and behavioral (PBIS) supports to meet student needs.
• Assessment & Grading Practices: Implementing standards-based grading and consistent grading practices.
• Inclusion & Co-Serving: Realigning instruction to ensure individualized growth for all learners.
• Innovative Practices Using Technology : Expanding device access and meaningful technology integration to enhance learning.

Mount Horeb High School students are demonstrating remarkable growth and resilience. Academic growth at MHHS increased from the 41st to the 92nd percentile, reflecting both strong instruction and students’ willingness to persist through challenge. Learners engage in rigorous and relevant opportunities, including Advanced Placement, the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme, Dual Enrollment, Youth Apprenticeships, and CNA, while early literacy and K–5 interventions ensure strong foundations that support long-term success.

One powerful example is Olivia Parks and Neela Patterson, Youth Apprentices who have made a meaningful impact at BeeHive Homes. Through hands-on work in senior care and memory support, Olivia and Neela have gained real-world experience while helping create a warm, compassionate environment for residents. Their dedication, empathy, and persistence exemplify what it means to apply learning beyond the classroom—and to grow through service.

Students across the District are applying creativity and critical thinking to solve authentic, real-world problems. Through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, learners engage in hands-on design, fabrication, and engineering challenges that require innovation, precision, and reflection.

A standout example includes a community partnership to design and weld a Braille sign frame for a sensory garden serving individuals who are blind. Students evaluated multiple design options using a bend tester to assess structural durability before selecting the strongest solution. This project combined technical skill, problem-solving, and service learning—demonstrating how students think critically, design intentionally, and use their talents to benefit others.

Students develop confidence, leadership, and communication skills through participation in DECA (business-focused club), Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), Club Interact, Energy Team, and other extracurricular opportunities. At the elementary level, Second Step (K–5) and daily morning meetings strengthen social-emotional learning, respectful dialogue, and collaboration—skills that carry through every stage of learning.

One highlight is DECA’s annual Once Upon a Time event, hosted at Martinson Hall. Students plan and execute an immersive experience for community guests—welcoming fairy godparents and royalty for an evening of themed activities, food, and fun. Through events like this, students practice public speaking, teamwork, and event management while inspiring the next generation of business leaders.

Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, behavior, and contributions to the school community. With support from community partners and under Tim Killinger’s leadership, students worked together to build something real, useful, and lasting—learning not just technical skills, but responsibility, follow-through, and pride in meaningful work.

That same sense of ownership is reinforced each fall when Middle School Principal Paul Christiansen meets with every grade level to discuss shared goals: learning, teamwork, trying new things, being a good friend, and growing from mistakes. These conversations establish accountability and trust, providing a common language that staff can return to throughout the year. Because conferences are student-led, families hear these commitments directly from students—subtle, but powerful moments that shape thoughtful decision-making.

Inclusive school communities are built intentionally through programs like Sources of Strength, Viking Hour, and Morning Meetings, where students learn empathy, connection, and respect for others. These experiences help students understand their role in creating welcoming environments where everyone belongs.

Student-led service further strengthens this commitment. Through Club Interact and Letters of Love, students organize efforts that support local, regional, and international causes. From Reverse Trick-or-Treating, where students delivered gifts to residents at Ingelside and BeeHive Senior Living Facilities, to the annual District Raking Event, where staff and students assist community members in need, learners consistently show that being a Viking means giving back and making a difference.

A. Increase percent of students "on grade level or higher" on state and local assessments among measured content areas

1. Percent of students growing from their previous results - January 2026 Report
2. Percent of students achieving in comparison to grade level peers - January 2026 Report

B. Increase access and performance in college-level or college preparatory coursework.

1. Percent of students taking at least one post-secondary course in their high school career: (e.g Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and dual credit) - September Report
2. Percent of students taking an AP or 1B test during their high school career - September Report
3. Percent of students receiving postsecondary credit for an AP, IB, and/or dual credit course - September Report 

C. Increase access, variety and completion rates of students who participate in professional certifications and/or workplace experiences

1. Number of students receiving Industry-recognized credentials and professional certificates - October Report
2. Number of students completing a workplace learning experience (apprenticeships, work cooperatives, and/or work experience). - October Report
3. Number of work-based learning partnerships within the community - October Report

D. Academic Development and behaviors of students to help prepare them for citizenship.

1. Life-ready indicators(4K-12)(e.g. attendance, graduation, volunteerism, etc.) - June 2025 Report
2. Post-high school experiences (e.g. post-secondary, military, apprenticeship, employment, no employment) - May 2025 Report
3. Percent of seniors meeting College Board recommendations for course of study - May 2025 Report
4. Percent of students who persist beyond first year and graduate college within six years - May 2025 Report

E. Implement cutting edge and innovative learning practices.

1. Incorporate research-based and innovative curriculum, instructional and assessment practices - August 2025 Report

Students

A. Increase a sense of belonging to support the whole child.

1.  Identify evolving demographic trends (e.g. economic, specialized 
services, race, etc.) - December 2025 Report
2. Identifying Evolving Mental/Behavioral Health/ATODA Awareness/support - December 2025 Report
3. Individual academic, social, and emotional supports - August 2025 Report
4. Co-curricular participation and opportunities. - April 2025 Report 

Staff

B. Engage and retain faculty and staff 

1. Engagement of employees
2. Identify and offer a variety of staff wellness opportunities - November 2025 Report
3. Professional development of staff - August 2025 Report
4. Employee retention rate 
5. Regionally competitive compensation, insurance, and retirement package - March 2024 Report

Students and Staff

C. Improve school safety

1. Improve the practices and policies related to school safety - June 2025 Report
2. Improve confidence and knowledge of school safety - June 2025 Report

Facilities

A. Improve facilities to better support the District's mission

1. Progress on referendum capital improvement projects 
2. Progress on District's Long-Range Facilities Plan - Long Range Facility Analysis
3. Expand the community's understanding of our annual capital improvement and maintenance - Capital Improvement and Maintenance Years 1-4
4. Facilities visioning related to our student and instructional needs - Years 5-9 Years 10-14

Finance

B. Preserve and seek methods for ensuring the long-range financial viability of the District.

1. Advocate for fair funding from State of Wisconsin - School Funding
2. Further Enhance the community and staff's understanding of 4K-12 funding is connected to the district's finances - School Funding
3. Maintain a stable fund balance - School Funding
4. Explore additional revenue streams (e.g. sponsorships, advertising, grants, etc) - Advertising, Donations, and Sponsorship Guide  August 2025 Report

A. Honor existing and create new relationships within our community

1. Foster and maintain ongoing relationships with elected and community leaders.
2. Facilitate Public engagement sessions
3. Increase the number of business partnerships the Board cultivates - May 2025 Report
4. Encourage public attendance and participation to assist with key decisions.

B. Promote student and staff accomplishments and events

1. Provide superintendent communications regarding Board meetings
2. Recognize the Board, staff, and students
3. Use social media and news outlets to consistently keep the community informed
4. Create referendum progress report newsletters
5. Craft Mount Horeb Mail columns and stores.

C. Nurture an engaged and committed Board of Education

1. Periodic training on governance (boardsmanship, roles, leading with vision, community trends)
2. Participation in CESA 2 governance and events
3. Participation in WASB educational events
4. Orientation for prospective or new Board members