You could have confused State School Superintendent Carolyn Stanford Taylor with a lifelong resident as she interacted with students and staff of the Washington Island School District earlier this week. With experience with schools in Madison, Taylor visited Wisconsin’s smallest district as a part of a statewide tour. Washington Island School principal Michelle Kanipes says she set the tone early on by thanking staff members and engaging with students and teachers. During the day, Taylor was not just showered with good conversation and island fare, but also hugs from students. Kanipes hopes her experience resonates with her when she returns to Madison.

 

Washington Island School District is not just the smallest in the state, it also ranks among the most unique with approximately 94 percent of its operating costs covered by island property taxes.