Grand Haven Voters Say “No” to Public Education Improvements
Grand Haven voters turned down two school bond proposals on the Nov. 7 ballot. As a result, Grand Haven’s debt millage rate will be projected to decrease to 1.24 in 2024 and 0.0 in 2025, leaving Grand Haven Area Public Schools to operate with zero capital funding from the community it serves.
“Regardless of the election outcome, we have the same mentality today that we do every day,” says GHAPS Superintendent Scott Grimes. “We are here to provide our students with exceptional educational experiences, to keep students at the heart of every decision, and to pursue Success For All. That will never change for us.”
Had Proposal 1 been approved, it would have funded some of the district’s most significant needs, including a new middle school, safety and security measures, technology, buses, and upgrades and renovations. Proposal 2 would have funded a new multi-purpose facility, playground updates, performing arts upgrades, renovations to the transportation pole building and more.
“We know meeting needs like safety and infrastructure sets students up for better learning outcomes,” shares Grimes. “Though these needs remain unfunded, our world-class educators continue to make sure every child receives the nurturing, caring attention they need to learn and grow. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to them and every Grand Haven resident who has expressed their support.”
GHAPS has been historically supported by a community of voters who have invested in providing a quality education to Grand Haven’s youth. “We value and have actively sought and listened to community feedback,” says Grimes. “We shaped the proposals to reflect that. We’re disappointed, but we remain unwavering in our commitment to the children of Grand Haven. It just means we must do more with less to address the most urgent safety, security and facilities issues.”
Grand Haven Area Public Schools is a district of distinction for students in preschool through 12th grade. With a goal of providing exceptional educational experiences, GHAPS is committed to success for all students and strives to provide exemplary programs and opportunities to meet their diverse needs. Visit ghaps.org for additional information.