Keep It Simple: How New Glarus Drives Excellence Through Focused Systems and People-First PlanningBy Dr. Laura Eicher, Dr. Jennifer Thayer, and Dr. Jeff Eichelkraut, New Glarus School District In the New Glarus School District, simplicity is more than a mindset—it’s a strategy for success. At the 2025 Excellence Conference, our team shared how a clear focus on systems, strategic planning, and staff support has led to exceptional student and staff outcomes. While simplicity doesn’t mean easy, our experience shows it’s a powerful path to sustained excellence. New Glarus ranks among Wisconsin’s top-performing districts, with all schools earning scores above 80 on the state report card and standout ACT performance. Staff survey data reflects the same success: 100% of employees report pride in the district, and nearly all believe their input is valued. This success is rooted in narrowing our focus to what matters most. Instead of chasing every new initiative, we align our efforts to a strategic plan grounded in vision, mission, and measurable goals. Each school in our district shares the same foundation, allowing for data-informed adjustments without losing coherence. We evolve without overhauling. Three key systems—Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)—anchor our work. These aren’t just programs; they’re embedded into how we operate every day.
Strong systems are only as good as the people who carry them out. That’s why we prioritize recruitment, development, and retention. We invest in meaningful professional development, eliminate non-essential tasks, and structure time so teachers can focus on students—not paperwork. Our culture encourages collaboration over isolation, support over judgment. We strive to say “yes” whenever possible within clear parameters, and we maintain low staff turnover by addressing issues proactively and fairly. Simply put, we work hard to keep great educators in the building and set them up for success The journey to simplicity is not without challenges. It requires discipline, clarity, and a willingness to say no to good ideas that don’t align with the district’s core goals. But the payoff—improved student outcomes, empowered educators, and a coherent, focused system—is worth the effort. At New Glarus, we’ve learned that keeping it simple doesn’t limit growth—it fuels it.
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