Teachers in Onalaska for Washburn Academy - WXOW News 19 La Crosse, WI – News, Weather and Sports |

ONALASKA, WI (WXOW)—Teachers from 26 school districts in Western Wisconsin are in Onalaska this week learning to improve their skills as part of the 19th annual Washburn Academy for K-12 teachers.

They're learning new teaching skills and hands on lessons in the subjects they teach to bring back to their students.

Cheryl Hanson, Washburn Academy Director said 95-percent of teachers who have attended the academy say they are better at their jobs because of it.

"The dedication and the commitment of our teachers, I don't think that's always appreciated," Hanson said. "These teachers are not paid to be here this week. They're taking a week out of their summer learning to be better teachers and they wouldn't do that if they weren't committed to students and dedicated to their profession."

Hanson said a highlight of the week will be when the teachers visit a local business to learn what they're looking for during the hiring process so they can help prepare their students.