The seniors are ready for the big day

Mark Mahoney 

Wausa Gazette 

WAUSA – The Wausa Public Schools Board of Education has approved the high school’s graduating class of 2022. 

However, while the school board gave its approval April 18, the seniors still had to complete their academic requirements in order to graduate Saturday, May 14.

“The seniors have asked me this before,” Superintendent Brad Hoesing said. “Just because you approve them does not mean that they get their diploma and walk out.” 

He emphasized the academic requirements the seniors had to complete in order to graduate. 

“Also included in the academic requirements – attendance and all the good, fun stuff in the handbook,” Hoesing said. “But they are one step closer.” 

The Wausa High School Class of 2022’s commencement ceremony is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday inside the gym. 

In other news, the school board has hired a replacement for custodian Terry Johnson, who has decided to retire at the end of the 2021-22 academic year. 

Board members approved the hiring of Gary Bloomquist to replace Johnson, pending a final background check clearance. 

Hoesing noted Bloomquist previously worked for Burns Construction in Wausa and retired from there. 

“He got kind of bored at home,” Hoesing said. “It’s got an evening shift. It fits kind of what he wants to do. He’s got grandkids here.” 

Hoesing was surprised the school district had a candidate for the custodian position who has a background in construction. 

“I think Gary’ll do a really good job for us,” he said. “He’s excited to do it.” 

Board member Pepper West asked whether Bloomquist would be responsible for cleaning the school building’s bathrooms and gym. 

Hoesing noted Bloomquist would be taking over Johnson’s job, which would include cleaning those areas. 

“I heard there’s some concerns from patrons of cleanliness,” West said. 

“We did address that within our custodial staff,” Hoesing said. 

“It’s great to have construction, but we really need it to be clean,” West said. 

Board members also approved the hiring of Chelsey Kracht as a preschool paraprofessional. 

In addition, they approved new science curriculum from TCI Education.

The school board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for 8 p.m., Monday, May 16.