HSF announces two fundraising projects for SDR facilities

The Hodag Schools Foundation last week announced two significant improvement projects within the School District of Rhinelander that it hopes will strengthen student experiences for years to come.

The foundation is seeking to raise funds for an inclusive playground at Pelican Elementary School, and for improvements to the Aspirus Community Fitness Center at Rhinelander High School.

“For more than two decades, the Hodag Schools Foundation (HSF) has partnered with the Rhinelander community to support the students of the School District of Rhinelander,” HSF stated in a press release. “Together, the foundation and community donors have raised more than $5.5 million to enhance educational programs, improve facilities, and expand opportunities for local students.

Creating an Inclusive Playground at Pelican Elementary

Pelican Elementary’s playground has served more than 260 students for over 20 years, but it is no longer meeting students’ needs, the HSF stated. Many areas lack accessibility for children with mobility or sensory challenges, while safety has also become a concern.

HSF’s goal is to create a fully inclusive, safe, and welcoming playground where every child feels a sense of belonging.

Transforming the Aspirus Fitness Center at RHS

Rhinelander High School’s Aspirus Fitness Center — currently a repurposed weight room — will undergo a major renovation to become a state-of-the-art performance and training facility. The upgraded space will support all students, not only athletes, and will better accommodate physical education classes that often exceed 70 students at a time.

The new center will highlight and promote safety, accessibility, and modern training resources, helping students build strength, confidence, and lifelong wellness habits.

The HSF stated its has separate fundraising goals of $400,000 each for the projects. 

“HSF invites community members to support these efforts and continue the legacy of investing in our young Hodags,” the release stated. 

Donations can be made at hodagschoolsfnd.org or by mailing a check to the foundation.