Discussions continue regarding North Winneshiek and Decorah merger

On Monday night the Decorah Community School Board heard from Superintendent Mike Haluska regarding the pending merger of the Decorah and North Winneshiek school districts.

Haluska said representatives from the two boards had met recently and will probably meet again soon after the first of the year.

There are different options, with many different implications, when it comes to mergers. Haluska said North Winneshiek was leaning toward "reorganization" rather than "dissolution" of the district. That would provide North Winneshiek employees more protections as the districts combine. Haluska said one of the issues Decorah brings to the table is the need for understandings regarding property taxes and levies. Haluska and Board President Ron Fadness said discussions were cordial and going well.

The biggest immediate concern is working toward the implementation of a new Whole Grade Sharing Agreement that would bring 7th and 8th grade in to Decorah next year.