GRAND HAVEN, MI – The construction of a new GHAPS middle school – and what would happen to the existing middle school property – is one of the most-discussed initiatives presented as part of Proposal 1, a school bond proposal on the Nov. 7 ballot.
“LMS is 70 years old and hasn’t received significant renovations for almost a decade,” explains GHAPS Superintendent Scott Grimes. “It needs extensive renovations, and major building systems like HVAC and plumbing are failing or near failing simply because of their age.”
Between fixing the mechanical/infrastructure issues and updating the learning environment to align with 21st century educational best practices, renovations would cost 70% of a new building. They would also take years to complete and disrupt learning for students. So instead, GHAPS has proposed the construction of a new middle school as part of Proposal 1.
“The new middle school would be designed to align with current best practices for teaching and learning,” shares Grimes. “A 90-acre parcel of district-owned property at 152nd and Lincoln in Grand Haven Township would provide ample room for an appropriately sized building, parking, bus traffic, parent pick-up and drop-off, and outdoor athletic fields.”
The proposal to construct the new building in Grand Haven Township was based on many factors, including where current students live and population trends. Approximately 63% of current LMS students live in Grand Haven Township, Robinson Township, West Olive and other school of choice areas. Approximately 21% live within city limits, both east and west of US-31, while approximately 15% live north of the bridge. Census data indicates the township experienced a 4.6% increase in population between 2020 and 2022, while the city’s population decreased by 0.3%.
Upon completion of the new middle school, bond funds would also cover the demolition of the existing middle school and site work to create green space. GHAPS would retain ownership of the property for future district use.
Additional details about the new middle school, the other projects included in Proposal 1, and the projects included in Proposal 2, are available at GHAPSbond.org.
Voters are also invited to an open house at Lakeshore Middle School on Wed. Nov. 1 from 6-7:30 p.m., to tour the building and discuss the bond proposal with GHAPS staff. Attendees should come through the south entrance to LMS, located off Park Street. GHAPS staff will be on hand to answer questions in a casual, open house setting. Tours of the building will be offered at 6:15 p.m. and 7 p.m.
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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