As the 20th century began, logging operations were in full swing in this area, and the small log schoolhouses could not handle the increasing number of students. Some classes were held in churches, but additional facilities were needed. T.N. Okerstrom and James C. Daly conceived the idea of consolidating the rural districts and establishing a larger school with free transportation. Although the idea met resistance, after numerous meetings and much planning a new school district was completed in January 1903. S.A. Baxter was principal, with a salary of $70 per month, and teachers Mary Kinney and Nettie Trolander each received $40 per month. So far as is known, this was the first school district in Wisconsin to provide free, tax-supported transportation. Canvas-covered horse-drawn wagons or sleighs, known as school rigs, were used for this purpose.