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GRPS reveals district overhaul plan

After voters passed a $305 million bond last week, Grand Rapids Public Schools is proposing the closure of a number of its current buildings in order to better utilize that money.

GRPS is proposing a number of strategic moves, including the closure of some buildings and consolidation of others, in order to better serve its students and community.

Some of the recommendations include the relocation of students who attend East Leonard Elementary to Coit Creative Arts Academy or Kent Hills Elementary, as well as transitioning Stocking Elementary students to Sibley Elementary or Harrison Park Academy. Other consolidations are expected to save the district $63 million dollars in outstanding maintenance and repairs to older facilities.

GRPS Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby says that this transformative approach reflects the district’s commitment to high achievement while preparing their students for success.

Another proposal would ensure that, after the combining of some schools, all academic buildings would be provided with air conditioning by 2029.

District leadership says that these recommendations are only at the proposal stage right now, and that there will be opportunities for the community to engage with the school board before any work is voted on.

The proposed timeline for these changes runs from 2024 through 2031.

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