One high school instead of two — merging Central and Logan — among future school ideas in La Crosse

Will there come a day when La Crosse only has one public high school instead of two? 

Merging Central and Logan into one large school is among several ideas for future building needs in the La Crosse school district. 

Superintendent Aaron Engel says a steady decline in district enrollment during recent years has led to talk of having fewer school buildings.    

“Over the last 20 years, we’ve lost 1404 students, and in the last seven years, we’ve lost 569 students,” said Engel.

Building plans will be the topic of two listening sessions coming up in the La Crosse district.  The first meeting happens next Wednesday at Logan Middle School, followed by another on July 7th at Longfellow.  Both meetings begin at 6 p.m.       

Engel has heard some public comments on the idea of merging the two public high schools.

“There’s certainly some folks that…see some logistical issues with it, and some cultural ones as well, but there are other folks that see the advantages of having more resources in one spot,” such as opportunities for classes and activities, according to Engel.

But the superintendent says the district would go along with the wishes of the public, especially if any plans are put to a referendum.