What is going on inside the classrooms at Algoma School District is changing just as much as it will on the outside when its referendum-funded project begins later this year. Like many school districts, Algoma is changing its reading curriculum to comply with the newly implemented Act 20. The law, initially introduced by Rep. Joel Kitchens, thanks to feedback from Door County residents, is designed to provide early literacy instruction and pathways to get students additional help if needed. While some school districts have had mixed feelings about Act 20, Algoma School District Superintendent Jesse Brinkmann says it has been well received among its staff and students.
 

Algoma High School's precision agriculture courses are new this school year. While Kewaunee's agriculture courses focus on animal science, and Luxemburg-Casco has cornered horticulture, Algoma's looks at farming management strategies that consider sustainability. Brinkmann says the precision agriculture courses fill a need in the community.
 

Work on $10.2 million in referendum-related projects is expected to start later this year. The work includes new plumbing and roofing at Algoma Elementary School, safety upgrades at the middle/high school, replacing the middle/high school's parking lot and track, updating the lighting, sound, and ceiling tile at the Algoma Performing Arts Center, and remodeling portions of the middle/high school including the band and choir room, the Algoma Venture Academy, agriculture classroom, and restrooms. Brinkmann expects the work will be finished by the fall.