Western's First Century
Welcome to Western's Centennial Year Celebration!
Western Technical College began its first classes in 1912 as the La Crosse Continuation and Adult Schools. Continuation Schools were established by Wisconsin Laws of 1911 as a requirement for students who did not continue on to high school to achieve another form of compulsory education. The purpose was, and still is, to prepare students for careers of the time.
That first year, the School served 806 students, the majority in the evening. Today we serve over 18,000 students annually. What began as a place for drop-out students and apprentice seekers has become a college of first choice to many students in our district. The College has always been responsive to the needs of the communities that we serve, which is evidenced by the changes in program offerings throughout the years.
And, more than just our programs have changed. From providing instruction in two rooms in the Longfellow school building, to a 15-building campus in La Crosse, regional locations in Black River Falls, Independence, Mauston, Tomah, and Viroqua, and a public safety training center in Sparta, our footprint has definitely expanded.
This website attempts to chronicle some of the more significant moments in Western's history. These are just highlights of a rapidly changing institution, which evolved with each war, each recession, each time of prosperity.
As Western prepares for its second century, this long record of flexibility and achievement inspires us to continue with our mission. To hold ourselves accountable for providing excellence in student learning, based on the diverse needs of each student and built on a foundation of integrity, teamwork, and respect.
Please join us in celebrating 100 years of service to our communities.
Lee Rasch
Western Technical College President
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