WINNECONNE, Wis. (WFRV) - Just days before the start of a new academic year, the Winneconne School District is without its District Administrator after a 31-year service.

According to a 4-2 board vote, Margaret (Peggy) Larson was placed on paid administrative leave, though the decision was discussed in a closed session on Monday, August 24. And while the vote was taken during an open session, the board did not reveal what exactly they were voting on.

One board member, Jill Verich, was unable to attend the meeting due to a prior obligation.

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The announcement of Larson's leave was posted to the district's website from School Board President Kati Calewarts, who voted in favor.

In the announcement, Calewarts says Larson will be on paid leave pending further consideration of an internal investigation authorized by the board.

Calewarts continued to say that she will provide further information regarding acting administration leadership at a later date. For the time being, communications requiring the attention of the District Administrator should be directed to Joe Pitsch, Director of Learning.

Other board members who voted in favor of placing Larson on leave include Board Vice President Dean Ackmann, Kari Flagg, and Cindy Otten. Board members Donna Hanson and Mark Kunde voted against.

Calewarts and Ackmann are currently facing opposition of their own. A community group is attempting to recall them, as critics cite a lack of transparency with the community and the rest of the board, as well as improper activity regarding legal services.

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The recall effort, which began July 15, includes a petition with over 1,000 signatures, according to organizer and former school board president Bob Ronk.

If the petition reaches the necessary number of signatures, a recall election would likely be months away.

School is back in session for Winneconne students on Tuesday, September 1.

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