Ishpeming School District puts two bond proposals on May ballot

The Ishpeming School District has had a lot to be proud of as of late.

The district has excelled in the athletic arena–winning back to back state championships in football, while making a name for themselves scholastically after being ranked 49th in Michigan in U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools of 2013.

Although the current of home of the Hematites features finely crafted crown point molding and lavish woodwork in most of its classrooms, some potential projects might bolster the school’s ability to provide the best environment for all of its students.

Two bond proposal are being offered up to voters in May for building and site improvements to both Ishpeming High School and Birchview Elementary.

The first proposal, which would raise $6.78 million and a 2.95 millage rate, addresses immediate needs for the school district, including replacing windows at the middle and high school building, and adding a cafeteria.

Birchview Elementary School would also be in line for improvements

“(For the) Birchview School (the proposal) would add on two computer labs, replace some of the outdated lighting that dates from the 1950’s in the elementary school, and would also allow us to install new classroom window shades for both energy efficiency and security,” Ishpeming School District Interim Superintendent and Business Manager Anthony Bertucci said.

The second proposal would levy a .42 millage rate and raise $1.6 million for more improvements to Birchview, including two new classrooms that would allow elementary school students in the district to be housed under one roof.

Bertucci said the proposals are independent projects, and don’t rely on one another to pass. If approved, construction could start as early as this fall with completion slated for the fall of 2015.

The election itself will take place May 6, but the deadline to register is April 7.

More information on the bond proposals can be found here.