Superintendent breaks down proposals

NO field house on ballot; new classrooms possible

ALMONT — Almont Community Schools Superintendent, Kimberly VonHiltmayer has taken time to share with the district what the two upcoming bond proposals will do for education and the students, should it be successful August 6.

What’s in Proposal 1 and Proposal #2?

VonHiltmayer stated, “There is an opportunity to support Almont Community Schools by voting on the school
bond proposals on Tuesday, August 6. Participation is crucial in shaping the future of the district and providing the best educational environment for Almont students.”

First and foremost, any conversation of a field house is inaccurate and not involved with either Proposal 1 or 2.

VonHiltmayer stressed it’s, “Important to Note/Highlight: There is NO FIELD HOUSE attached to these proposals; the field house has been removed” and is not, nor has it been, in any discussions with the August vote.

With Proposal #1, estimated to cost around $22,680,000, the Supt. says, “This proposal includes necessary replacements and upgrades to the district’s facilities. It is designed to ensure that our schools remain safe, functional, and conducive to learning for all students.”

The Superintendent pointed out although 64% of Proposal #1 is allocated to improve the high school and its surrounding athletic facilities (new track, eight new tennis courts, replace football field with grass, a new softball press box, and expansion of stadium bleachers), Proposal #1 would also include safety and security upgrades and new playgrounds at
Orchard Primary and Almont Middle
School.

Additionally, there is over $2 million allocated for paving throughout various locations in the district.

Proposal #2 is estimated to cost around $10,050,000.

VonHiltmayer said this proposal focuses on the following specific enhancements:

(1) OP/AMS Connector–eight(8) additional classrooms. (Note: Currently, the preschoolers are being housed at Almont Middle School due to lack of classroom space at Orchard Primary);
(2) STEM/STEAM Classroom;

(3) Installation of air conditioning at Orchard Primary and Almont Middle School; and

(4) An additional allocation for a synthetic football field. (Note: Proposal #1 must also pass for this project to be considered).

“Both proposals aim to enhance the educational experience and infrastructure of the
schools significantly,’ she told the Tri-City Times.

If you take the time to review the detailed information available on the district’s website at https://www.almontschools.org/bond_information; you will find three short videos, a tax estimator, the preliminary bond application, the Superintendent’s Community Forum Presentation, and a School Finance Presentation.

You may also contact the Superintendent’s office at 810-798-8561 if you have any specific questions about the bond.