GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Stocking Elementary is one of 10 Grand Rapids Schools recommended to close before 2028.
But Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby said these are positive changes.
"We are really excited because it's also about what we will get in return. We are looking at building more stronger programming that allows us to do some consolidating of our staff, and also that allows for more electives, strong articulation from our Pre-K all the way through our 12th grade," said Dr. Roby.
Dr. Roby explained the plan to the school board Monday night.
She also added that no staff would be laid off because of the plan.
One of the benefits she emphasized is that buildings would be used more efficiently.
As of right now GRPS is at a 51% building utilization rate, meaning buildings across the district are half full.
"Our goal is 75%, we think we'll get close to that, just by doing some of these moves close to 73%," said Dr. Roby. "That doesn't mean that we are just stopping with those moves. It also means that we'll be doing other initiatives and other supports, to encourage and invite families to take a look at GRPS."
East Leonard Elementary is also on the closing list for 2024.
Stocking students would relocate to Harrison Park Academy or Sibley Elementary and East Leonard students would go to either Kent Hills Elementary or Coit Creative Arts Academy.
And schools including Mulick Park Campus and Southwest Elementary schools would see major renovations.
The school closings and repurposings could save the district around $63 million dollars. And according to Dr. Roby, could bring students, teachers and staff closer together.
"We have been very intentional about using our repair criteria to look about how do we optimize and value all school options, we talk a lot about equity and how we operationalize that is through expanded opportunities," said Dr. Roby.
Schools to be repurposed
Aberdeen Academy - 2027
PreK-5 scholars will relocate to Kent Hills Elementary or the newly renovated neighborhood school at the site currently being utilized by North Park Montessori. Scholars in grades 6-8 will move to the new middle school program at the Innovation Central campus.
Brookside Elementary - 2026
Scholars will relocate to the newly renovated space at the site that currently houses Alger Middle School.
East Leonard Elementary - 2024
Scholars will relocate to Kent Hills Elementary or Coit Creative Arts Academy.
Grand Rapids Montessori Academy (Fountain) - 2026
Scholars will relocate to the newly renovated space at the site that is currently being utilized by Riverside Middle School.
North Park ECC @ Wellerwood - 2026
Scholars will relocate to the newly renovated space at the site that is currently being utilized by Riverside Middle School.
Palmer Elementary - 2027
Scholars will relocate to Kent Hills Elementary or the newly renovated neighborhood school located at the site currently being utilized by North Park Montessori.
Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy - 2026
Scholars will relocate to the newly renovated campus at Ken-O-Sha Park.
Southeast Career Pathways (Jefferson) - 2025
Scholars will relocate to the former Sigsbee school after renovations are complete.
Stocking Elementary - 2024
Scholars will relocate to Harrison Park Academy or Sibley Elementary.
Westwood Middle School - 2028
Scholars will relocate to the new middle school program on the Union campus.
Dates that you can share your feedback
Nov. 13: GRPS leadership presents recommendations at the Board of Education work session which will be held at 6:30 p.m. in the Franklin Campus Auditorium
Nov. 14: All-Staff Forum
Nov. 20: GR Board of Education receives feedback on the plan at a 5:30 p.m. public hearing and at its regular 6:30 p.m. Board Meeting at the Franklin Campus Auditorium
Nov. 27: Virtual Scholar/Community Feedback Session at 6:30 p.m. via ZOOM
Nov. 28: Northeast Scholar/Community Feedback Session at 6:30 p.m. at City High Middle School Auditorium
Dec. 4: GR Board of Education receives feedback on the plan at its regular 6:30 p.m. Board Meeting at the Franklin Campus Auditorium
Dec. 5: Southeast Scholar/Community Feedback Session at 6:30 p.m. at Ottawa Hills High School Auditorium December 6: Southwest Scholar/Community Feedback Session at 6:30 p.m. at Burton Middle School Auditorium (Spanish-led meeting available)
Dec. 7: Northwest Scholar/Community Feedback Session at 6:30 p.m. at Union High School gymnasium
Dec. 11: GR Board of Education work session to focus on reviewing community feedback at 5:30 p.m. at the Franklin Campus Auditorium
Dec. 18: Board of Education expected to vote on the facilities realignment plan at its regular 6:30 p.m. meeting at the Franklin Campus Auditorium
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