The Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) referendum passed in a close vote, allowing the district to start work on the first part of the referendum: Improving elementary schools in the area, at the highest priority out of concern for student safety.
OASD released a statement April 2, 2025, thanking Oshkosh voters for their support:
“‘We are incredibly grateful to our community for supporting and trusting in our vision for the future of Oshkosh schools,’ said OASD Superintendent Bryan Davis. ‘This investment will provide our students with safe and effective learning spaces while maintaining our commitment to fiscal responsibility.’”
Carl Traeger, Franklin and Oakwood Elementary schools will be expanded and renovated under this referendum, including adding air conditioning to Franklin and Oakwood Elementary schools. The schools currently have a wide range of problems, including outdated systems, risks of structural failure, and even mold and asbestos concerns. The referendum aims to merge elementary schools, planning to close and sell Roosevelt Elementary. Elementary school renovations and improvements are planned to begin in the winter of 2026.
North’s auditorium is the second part of the project, after all elementary schools are renovated and improved (including AC installation). The upgraded auditorium would provide more performance space for North students and other K-12 students on the north side of Oshkosh. It also saves the district money, removing the extra costs associated with renting areas for plays and musicals, and allows North students to attend classes between rehearsals and performances. Renovation is expected to begin mid-September of 2026.
The last two projects of the referendum include construction of a new middle school at the Jacob Shapiro Elementary school site, and turning Perry Tipler Middle School into a pre-k and recreational center. Construction of a new middle school aims to start in the spring of 2027, with the pre-k and recreational center starting construction in the summer of 2028.
The project schedule is subject to change. Additional project details can be found on the OASD website.
