By Kathy Oswalt-Forsythe
Schoolcraft Schools’ Finance Director Kendra Drewyor delivered good news about the district’s budget: Property tax valuations are expected to increase by 5.4% instead of a previous projection of 4%.
The good fiscal news continued: Drewyor explained that as part of the school construction project, the district sought bids for technology. A Bond Steering Committee reviewed the bids and awarded a $160,000 contract to Sentinel Technology. A federal program that provides funding for schools for services such as internet access and internal connections, will reimburse the district for half of the cost.
Drewyor reminded those in attendance that KRESA is seeking renewal of an enhancement tax of 1.5 mills to be assessed for six years (2023-2028). The tax provides significant resources for the district. She encourages all residents to exercise their right to vote, whether for or against, on May 2.
Superintendent Rick Frens gave the board construction project updates. Frens stressed that the project continues to “remain on schedule and on budget.” He encourages residents to drive past the site on 14th Street to notice the changes. Most of the exterior of the building has been completed and crews are busy working on the interior. “Many of our classrooms now have paint on the wall, drywall is being hung, and we are hooking up many of our classroom air handling systems.”
Frens anticipates permanent power and heat soon. “Our large competition gym is in the process of being completely enclosed,” and a wood gym floor will be installed, beginning in early March. Frens says, “This building will be a state-of-the-art facility, and we are grateful to our community for their continued support and trust.”
Frens expects the district will welcome students and staff to the new space in September.
The school board opened with the election of officers and a welcome to new Trustee Chris Blodgett. Blodgett, a graduate of Schoolcraft High School said he “looks forward to serving the community in this capacity.”