They don’t need as many buildings because the student population is smaller in the Grand Rapids Public schools. Down almost 30 percent since 2010
“Currently our buildings are only half full”
That is superintendent Leadriane Roby in a video posted on the district web site explaining the restructuring plan. She says closing 10 schools and consolidating will save millions in maintenance costs.
“63 million dollars on maintenance costs and repairs that are needed right now.
With on line videos and a series of community forums, the district has tried to explain the need to close schools. before the final school board vote Monday night parent Marta Johnson still wanted more time is needed to consider options:
“I know we are going to have to make hard decisions but I still think this takes more time and consideration.”
“The process of implementing these changes wont happen overnight the changes we are talking about will take the next several years for full implementation.”
Under the current timetable two buildings will close at the end of this year…the last one in 2028.
“we will take the time to do this right.”
