Planning amid pressure
Turtle Lake–Mercer Public School is entering the 2026–27 planning season with a mix of optimism and caution, Superintendent Sheila Schlafmann said this week. The district has made progress on staffing for next year, but broader financial pressures, shaped by both state and national policy decisions, are prompting administrators to plan carefully.
Schlafmann said the district successfully filled two key teaching positions, one in agriculture education and another in family and consumer sciences. Both programs are longstanding parts of the school’s curriculum, and she said the district is “pleased to welcome new educators” who will help maintain those offerings.
At this point, the only anticipated openings for next year are in transportation. A pair of retirements will require new daily route drivers and activity drivers who transport students to games, contests and practices, which remains an ongoing need.
While staffing is on track, the district is preparing for a more uncertain financial picture.