Ahead of Schedule, Under Budget, and Built to Last: Fennimore’s Success Story
April 7, 2026
This article was published in Wisconsin School News – April 2026, the official publication of the Wisconsin Association of School Boards, Inc.
Read the Article in Wisconsin School News
With more than 60 years of wear on its schools, the district faced longstanding challenges. Urgent facility repairs were needed, ADA accessibility improvements were required to ensure equitable access for all students and community members, mechanical systems were outdated, and the 1952 roof required constant a
ttention. Additionally, the Career and Technical Education (CTE) spaces no longer effectively served student needs.
In April 2024, voters approved a $17 million referendum to modernize facilities and address critical infrastructure needs. To guide the effort, the district partnered with Performance Services using the design-build delivery method, integrating planning, design, and construction all under a single contract. This approach supported a collaborative process built around shared accountability, helping the district stay on track, avoid surprises, and deliver a high-quality outcome.
A Community Vision, Realized
For decades, the heart of Fennimore’s educational system has been a collection of mid-century buildings—solid in spirit but strained by time.
After a previous project had gone over budget due to numerous change orders, the community was cautious about approving new funding. District leaders knew that trust and transparency would be key to earning public confidence. Together, the district held community meetings, distributed surveys, and invited public input throughout the planning process.
“I searched for a construction partner that offered all-inclusive services and a true guarantee to complete projects without change orders. Because of Performance Services and their commitment to working with our team, we have created learning spaces that will benefit students for generations to come.”
Jane Wonderling, District Administrator | Fennimore Community School District
Planning with Purpose
Fennimore’s success didn’t happen overnight. Before the district pursued a referendum, it completed smaller renovation projects with Performance Services that built momentum and strengthened community confidence.
As planning progressed, district staff worked side by side with Performance Services to develop a comprehensive master plan that balanced immediate facility needs with long-term improvements. Together, they focused on solutions to improve flow, accessibility, and building performance, while helping the district reduce operational costs and make the most of every dollar invested.
Honoring the Past, Building the Future
Fennimore’s modernization preserved what the community loved about its school while creating spaces that better supported today’s learning priorities.
The updated spaces blended the original building’s familiar character with modern design. Classrooms are brighter, more adaptable, and designed to support connections between students, teachers, and the broader community.
When the work was complete, the transformation was more than visible—it was felt. The school became a renewed source of pride, reflecting a district that believes deeply in its students and the role education plays in shaping the future.
Delivered Through Teamwork
From start to finish, this project was powered by partnership. Fennimore leaders stayed engaged at every step. Decisions were made with clarity. Challenges were addressed early. And through consistent communication and shared accountability, the district maintained momentum without sacrificing quality.
The project was delivered one year ahead of schedule and under budget. And because the district stayed in control of costs along the way, it was able to reinvest savings into additional improvements—including playground equipment upgrades.
“Performance Services truly values your community and your voice,” said Wonderling. “We finished not just as colleagues, but as a unified team that created something truly remarkable for our students and community.”
Jane Wonderling, District Administrator | Fennimore Community School District
A Story of Community Leadership
Fennimore’s story was never just about construction. It was about a district that listened to its community, planned with purpose, and delivered on a promise.
By embracing the design-build method and keeping transparency at the center of the process, the district created learning environments that will serve students for decades to come.
Fennimore's Transformational Renovations
Ready to start building with us? Contact us today, and our talent team will meet with you to discuss how our design-led, design-build approach can take your next construction or renovation project to the next level.
Hear From Satisfied Clients.
I was impressed with the communication and the willingness to talk through problems. It was apparent that the quality of the work was a top priority. That made the conversations easier.
Jonathan Schmidt
District Administrator | Riverdale School District
We feel that Performance Services just had a better approach to the facility study process which sets them apart. Additionally, we did not have to invest any initial dollars into the study. We were impressed with the input Performance Services gave us from the planning phase all the way throughout the project because we did not experience that with other companies. Performance Services made us part of the solution. We have done numerous projects with Performance Services that really turned out well, and we did not have surprise change order costs. When they talk about guaranteed pricing, they stick to that and we really appreciate that.
Rick Fechter
Former Manager of Facilities & Operations | School District of Menomonee Falls
