DeWitt schools
When Dr. Shanna Spickard became DeWitt schools superintendent in May, the district’s $66 million bond proposal was already on the to-do list.On Nov. 2, DeWitt school district voters will decide on a $66 million bond issue that would address aged building systems, updating educational technology, and improving athletics arts and extracurriculars. A renewal, the 6-year proposal would maintain current taxing levels.
Even before Dr. Shanna Spickard became superintendent in May, the proposal was on its way to time he ballot. Language was approved in June.
“When you look at this exact proposal and compare it to the other bonds in the area, the projected money is considered less expensive,” said Spickard.
Spickard stressed how important these upgrades could be for not only the staff and students, but anyone who is on the property. “Six total buildings would be looked at. Some building upgrades include new electrical, air-conditioning and roofing. But there will also be about 7% of the money going towards extracurriculars such as new turf installations, pool renovations, gymnasium upgrades, and new stadium lighting.”
The Yes DeWitt Facebook page joins Spickard in supporting the bond. On this Facebook page, community members have the opportunity to do their own research on the issue.
Kristyn Ladd is part of the Facebook group and said, “DeWitt residents care deeply about our schools and are committed to our kids’ success. … We are still one of the lowest funded districts in the state based on the per-pupil dollars we receive, and we are counting on voters to support our kids and families by voting yes on Nov. 2.”
If passed, all the upgrades would occur during summer because it is the only time learning is not in session.
Another individual who is working with the proposal is Assistant Superintendent Rob Spagnuolo. He is familiar with bond projects, including the one passed in 2016.
At the Sept. 27 informational meeting at the Board of Education Office, Spagnuolo explained what could happen in the first year if the bond passes. “Our core team will really start staging things out and get contractors selected. There’s not a lot that can happen in that first summer, but we wanted to do something that is very visible to the community, and that includes bidding for the new turf.”
Another question that arose at this meeting was how citizens could know that the $66 million would actually be going to the main three categories. “By law we can’t pay retirement wages, we can’t pay retirement costs, it has to be used for those specific things that you’re seeing on the proposal,” said Spagnuolo.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Make sure to check your polling location as set by the city or township. For more election information, visit michigan.gov/vote If there are any questions regarding the proposal, you may reach Spickard at 517-668-3000 or shannaspickard@dewittschools.net.