La Crosse teachers’ union president Jill Schams in studio discussing how political groups like theirs needs to be, how things might be different without Act 10 and her thoughts on historic status of district buildings.

Schams, who’s president of the La Crosse Education Association, also talks about the school cellphone ban, new names and mascots for the new and renovated elementary schools, and staffing as the district consolidates buildings. 

We spent most of our time, though, on politics on various topics. Generally, though, just how schools, teachers and students are all affected by what happens in Madison and Washington, DC., and how teacher groups, union groups and school districts need to navigate those waters.

That discussion includes a look at Act 10, which could be struck down by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and how things might be different without it. There is also the matter of the $600 million deal struck by three retiring politicians in the state for education funding and how details are needed to take a stance.

In terms of direct La Crosse School District issues, Schams is asked about potential complications that come with buildings getting historic status. When Logan Middle School closed, it was deemed historic after the fact, and the same thing is happening with Emerson Elementary, which will close after next school year. The Lincoln building is still going through a selling process years later, and the district is currently fighting historic status for Emerson.