Voters in November will be asked to consider two new bond proposals for Grand Haven Area Public Schools, based on the GHAPS Board of Education’s approval at last night’s meeting.
After the defeat of the district’s $155 million bond proposal in May, GHAPS conducted extensive post-election research to gain a deeper understanding of the community’s feelings and priorities. An online survey and a set of focus groups gave voters the chance to tell the district what was important to them, including reducing the dollar amount of future proposals, prioritizing district needs, and providing more details about plans related to Lakeshore Middle School.
As a result, the board approved language for two separate proposals on the November 7 ballot:
Proposal 1 – $118,351,000: Erecting, equipping and furnishing a new middle school building; remodeling, and equipping and re-equipping school buildings, including school security improvements and secure entrances, and facilities; furnishing and refurnishing school buildings and facilities; purchasing school buses; acquiring, installing, and equipping and re-equipping school buildings for instructional technology; and preparing, developing, improving and equipping structures, athletic fields and sites.
Proposal 2 – $28,660,000: Erecting, remodeling, and equipping and re-equipping school buildings, additions to school buildings, and facilities; furnishing and refurnishing school buildings and facilities; and acquiring, installing, and equipping and re-equipping school buildings for instructional technology; and preparing, developing, improving and equipping structures, athletic fields, play fields, playgrounds and sites.
According to GHAPS Superintendent Scott Grimes, Proposal 1 covers key district priorities like a new middle school, safety and security, necessary mechanical renovations, buses and technology. Proposal 2 includes a multipurpose facility at GHHS, performing arts facility renovations, additional building renovations, playground updates, new musical instruments and upgrades to the transportation facility.
We appreciate everyone who shared their thoughts with us after the last bond proposal. We’ve listened to all of you and believe that our two proposals reflect your feedback. We’re all trying to give our students the best education possible, and that only happens when we work together.
Scott Grimes, GHAPS Superintendent
GHAPS will provide further details about each proposal in the months to come, but Grimes wants to make one thing clear: “Though Proposal 1 calls for the construction of a new middle school, GHAPS will keep the existing Lakeshore Middle School property for future district use.”
If Proposal 1 passes, the current millage rate of 2.29 would increase to 3.95 mills. Passing both proposals would increase the rate to 4.05 mills, which is less than the 4.2 mills proposed in May.
Grand Haven Area Public Schools is a district of distinction for students in preschool through 12th grade. With a goal of providing exceptional educational experiences, GHAPS is committed to success for all students and strives to provide exemplary programs and opportunities to meet their diverse needs. Visit ghaps.org for additional information.
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