School Master Plan Coalition
The Board sanctioned a community coalition to review the current resources and information. The goal was to create a more efficient and effective educational environment for all elementary students. This decision was driven by the need to optimize resource allocation and ensure that all students had access to the best possible educational facilities. The committee was tasked with recommending a change that included bringing all elementary students to the main campus and retiring two elementary schools.
Individuals representing school staff, parents, community members, business owners, and non-profit partners joined the coalition. The coalition met several times and conducted a thorough review of the current resources, reviewed enrollment projections, building, school, and program capacity, transportation, programs, gathered input from stakeholders, and provided a comprehensive recommendation to the board. The coalition created two options that in essence bring about a K-5 elementary and maintain a middle school and high school sharing the current high school building.
The two options that received the most support are included in the [document below]. There were 8 options in total.
As Superintendent, I truly enjoyed working with the coalition members. Their dedication and expertise have been invaluable. I fully support the coalition's grade span alignment and school designations, maintenance of academic and behavioral support systems, and agree with the concerns raised. However, I must share my concerns about delaying a year or the recommended phased approach.
1. Our vision for the future is embodied in our Portrait of a Sault Graduate. We aim to ensure that every student is ready to enroll in a post-graduate institution, enlist in the military, or have the credentials to immediately be employed. This goal drives our commitment to providing the best possible education and resources for our students.
2. Delaying action can hinder our students' progress and result in missed opportunities and compromise fiscal stability for academic programs for students. Delays can lead to increased costs. The longer we wait, the more we risk budget overruns and missed funding opportunities. Acting quickly on strategic initiatives can help us manage our resources better and avoid unnecessary expenses.
3. It will be necessary to have some aspects in place (like creating a multi-purpose room and locker rooms, adding lockers for high school students, and installing fencing for elementary students at the new elementary school). Additional enhancements will provide the resources and support our students need to excel. These enhancements include taking advantage of potential funds for CTE programs for middle school students outlined in the Governor’s proposal along with funds for unused buildings, partnerships with nonprofits for energy upgrades, and grants for public facilities such as VanCitters.
4. We must also consider the potential risks to federal programs like Title I, II, IV, Medicaid, E-Rate USF, and Impact Aid. These programs are vital for supporting our students and schools. Delays in our initiatives could increase the risks associated with potential federal funding cuts, impacting on our ability to provide these essential services and resources. These are programs listed in the Coalition Options such as reading and math support, services for our most diverse learners, internet and internal broadband discounts, personal care and mental health services, and Native American student advisors.
5. I am confident in our administrative team. They are ready to carry out this vision. Leveraging teacher leaders, staff, and our community members we can anticipate even stronger programs, facilities and community partnerships. Their commitment and expertise will ensure a smooth transition and continued support for your children, our students.
In conclusion, while I appreciate the coalition's work and recommendations, I believe that taking timely action on critical elements will better serve our academic and financial goals. Therefore, I ask the Board to consider the following:
1. Call for an election that does not increase taxes
2. Approve the Phase 1 improvements to the high school using capital projects funds
3. Move all students to the main campus in the fall of 2025,
4. Establish elementary as K-5,
5. Establish middle school as 6-8,
6. Establish Malcolm Jr Sr Alternative High School for 7-12.
7. Locate the elementary school at the current middle school with special education self-contained (non-preschool) programs.
8. Locate the middle school at the current Sault High with appropriate school separation as practicable
9. Plan for the retirement, sale and/or demolition of current elementary schools and other school property improvements
I am confident that with our collective expertise and commitment, we can achieve significant progress without compromising on quality or effectiveness.
I believe together, we can create a brighter future for our students and our community.
Be well,
Amy J. Scott-Kronemeyer, Ed.D.
Please click the PowerPoints below to view all slides:
