I. What is the purpose of The SM Legacy?

The School District of South Milwaukee has constructed a new campus which houses middle school/high school/community events. The SM Legacy is an effort that overlays this unprecedented project by providing special effects that further assure an appreciation for the activities taking place on the site. It is one more step in demonstrating the community’s shared commitment to excellence begun with the passing of the February 19, 2002, referendum.

II. Is this a good time for such an effort given the current budget reductions?

The budget reductions are occurring within the operating budget of the school district and are in fact having a devastating effect on the programs of the district and the ability of the district to serve its students well. A budget deficit can only be addressed by reducing costs or adding revenue or a combination of the two. Adding revenue to address an operating budget deficit cannot be seen as a single event since that would only postpone the inevitable need to reduce costs.

The SM Legacy is a single infusion of resources intended to permanently impact the quality of activities that occur on this newly developing site.

III. What was funded by the referendum and what would The SM Legacy add?

Referendum Funded:

• Remodeling current high school to accommodate relocated middle school.
• Addressing future of current middle school site.
• Constructing state-of-the-art high school that includes auditorium, field house, stadium and appropriate site amenities.
  

SM Legacy Funded Possibilities:

• High quality art displayed throughout campus.
• Historic South Milwaukee artifacts displayed throughout campus.
• Stadium amenities including classic facade, concession stand, stamped concrete/concrete pavers, flags and banners, team meeting/outdoor education room.
• Outdoor student gathering place.
• Ability to take advantage of unforeseen program enhancements.

Examples:

IV. Since the campus belongs to the citizens of South Milwaukee, how does the “naming rights” proposal work?

School district property will always belong to the citizens of South Milwaukee while recognition may be given for special donations without which certain benefits would not be possible.

As an example, the new auditorium will be addressed as South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center. However, the hall within the SMPAC may be named after a sponsor whose donation made certain added campus feature(s) possible.

V. Who is responsible for making decisions related to the various physical features of the campus?

The SM Legacy Board will determine what is brought forward to the School Board on its behalf. The elected School Board for the School District of South Milwaukee is ultimately responsible for all capital improvements made on the campus.

Features available as donor targets will be clearly described to the donors at the time of the donation.