CLICK TO HEAR JACK HALL’S INTERVIEW WITH SUPT. TRAVIS DEPUYDT
The North Central Schools in Menominee County have been approved for a $15.4 million state grant to cover the cost of consolidating its two school buildings into one.
NCA Superintendent Travis Depuydt says the grant will help to address the district’s infrastructure needs in the buildings that were built in 1948 (Powers) and 1970’s (Hermansville). He says the wear-and-tear over the years has led to leaky roofs and foundation problems at both buildings.
After NCA voters turned down two “sinking fund” millage requests in August and November of last year, he and the school board went to work looking for other funding options. This $15.4 million is from Section 12d in a state fiscal year 2024 supplemental package that passed in conjunction with the fiscal year 2025 state budget.
Depuydt says a decision has not been made on which building to close, Powers or Hermansville. He said there will be plenty of time for feedback from the public, as well as consultation with architects and contractors.
The project will include investments in technology, flexible classroom spaces, and modern amenities that support innovative teaching and learning. It also includes addressing structural issues such as the roof, heating systems, and windows.
There were 51 school districts that applied for money from this fund, and only three were approved to share in the $75 million. Besides North Central, the other two that were approved were Union City and Flint.
“These consolidation grants will be transformative for the three local school districts by helping to modernize school buildings, reduce square footage, and better meet the needs of their students and staffs,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice. “Thanks to this funding from the state legislature and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, children will experience better learning environments and districts will be able to spend their funds more efficiently.”
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