The struggle for more space for Peshtigo students continued Wednesday as a $33.9 million referendum to build a new school did not pass the vote on Tuesday.
57% of voters in Peshtigo voted against the referendum that would increase property taxes to pay for a new middle/high school. Taxpayers would have seen an increase of anywhere from $150 to about $300 per year.
"It's difficult for us to really understand," said Peshtigo School District Administrator Kim Eparvier.
Eparvier said they're disappointed with the outcome of the vote, but proud of the process they used to prepare and inform the public on the referendum through the Ad Hoc Committee.
"Really, when it comes down to it, the decision is made by this community and I think we have to find out exactly what kind of investment the community is willing to place on public schools in Peshtigo," Eparvier said.
Some students say there are issues with the building, but they're not too concerned about them.
"Some students just complain about the heat," said sophomore Gavin Forsberg. "It'd be nicer to have a little more space, but it really doesn't affect [our] learning."
Nonetheless, the school is outdated and becoming overcrowded, according to school leaders. Now, they will head back to square one to figure out how to get the community on board with their plans.
The Peshtigo School Board meets next week, and school administration will talk with board members before that to try and determine the next step.
