Ely Public School District Superintendent Anne Oelke presented her goals for the 2025-2026 school year to the school board, outlining three key areas of focus as the district navigates financial challenges and works to strengthen community relationships.
Oelke’s goals center on maximizing school district resources, strengthening community communications and relationships, and providing leadership to increase student achievement.
During the presentation, Oelke addressed the district’s ongoing financial pressures, noting the dual approach needed to balance the budget.
“We’re still looking at reductions and increasing revenue, and students equal revenue as our biggest priority,” she said.
Enrollment at the schools has declined over the past few years, meaning less money from state and federal sources.
The superintendent highlighted promising developments in securing additional funding, including potential collaboration with the Ely Education Foundation for hiring a grant writer.
Oelke also discussed enrollment strategies, including leveraging the district’s unique scholarship program as a recruitment tool.
“It’d be nice to focus on the scholarship program as an attraction. No other school has that anywhere near us,” she suggested.
The superintendent emphasized the importance of community communication in achieving her goals, particularly regarding the district’s financial situation.
Board members expressed support for Oelke’s goal-setting approach.
“I feel like you are invested in this school and want to see success,” board member Tom Omerza said following the presentation.