Battle Creek Times

Battle Creek Public Schools issued the following announcement on Oct 14.

On November 2, voters in the Battle Creek Public Schools (BCPS) district will be asked to consider a $44.8 million bond proposal that would reimagine the BCPS middle school experience and help us continue ensuring success for every student.

If the bond measure passes, Northwestern will transform into a K-8 visual and performing arts academy, while Springfield will receive building renovations to continue its transition into a service-learning school. These renovations would transform learning experiences for our kids and create more thriving schools in our community!

How does this benefit Battle Creek?

When schools are strong, our community is strong. The improved quality of school facilities would provide students with more opportunities to explore their interests and talents. Since the beginning of the transformation, BCPS has sought to offer choice for every family and an educational experience that is tailored to each child’s unique needs and interests. Transforming the middle school experience is the next step for our district! If this measure passes, it will help Battle Creek continue to attract more business to the community, increase property values, and better prepare the future workforce.

Transforming the middle school experience

At Northwestern, the bond measure would transform the space into a k-8 visual and performing arts academy, implementing new programs, curricula, and teacher training. Building renovations would include:

• New spaces for kindergarten classrooms
• A brand new Welcome Center
• Arts and dance studios
• Digital graphics and video production lab
• Auditorium renovations

Northwestern students will participate in various performances, visual arts and other community involvement opportunities. These educational experiences will help students find their voice through creative expression, build their self worth, and discover their power to contribute to the world around them. Additional building improvements would include security improvements, pool renovations, energy efficient windows and doors, and HVAC upgrades.

For Springfield, the bond measure would support the continued transition to a service-learning school. Renovations would include:

• New HVAC systems
• Energy efficient windows and doors
• Lighting
• Updated bathrooms
• Accessibility improvements
• Technology and classroom furniture upgrades

The service learning model at Springfield will help students create stronger connections with their community, develop communication and problem-solving skills, promote empathy, and help students feel like they belong!

Vote on November 2, 2021!

We listened to the community, and the improvements at Northwestern and Springfield would continue to transform our district and entire community for success. If the bond passes, design will begin in early 2022 with construction beginning as early as Fall 2022.

Make a plan to vote on November 2, and keep these key dates in mind:

• Friday, October 29 at 5:00 p.m.: Deadline to request an absentee ballot. Click here to request an absentee ballot or visit the City Clerk’s office for more information. Stop by the office through election day to register to vote.
• Monday, November 1 at 4:00 p.m.: Deadline to request an absentee ballot in person at the City Clerk’s office.
• Tuesday, November 2: Election Day! The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Click here to find your polling site.

If you have additional questions, please contact Ms. Rhonda Potts, Executive Director of Business and Finance at rpotts@battle-creek.k12.mi.us or (269) 965-9506.

For more information, click here.

Original source can be found here.