Dear Au Gres-Sims Families, Community Members, and Supporters,
Across our district, we are united by a shared belief: our students deserve learning environments that inspire curiosity, support growth, and reflect the pride we have in being Wolverines. I am excited to introduce the Au Gres-Sims School District’s Capital Projects Plan—an initiative designed to ensure that our facilities remain beautiful, safe, innovative, and ready to meet the needs of both today’s learners and the generations who will follow.
Back in August the district presented an audacious bond project that included both necessary facility upgrades for everyday orderly operation and a plan for a unique facility that we believed would enhance the learning experience and lives of the people of this community. While we were disappointed that the bond was not approved by the constituency we respect the result and have spent the time since reflecting, revising, and reevaluating.
Over the past several months, we have listened closely to staff, students, families, and community partners. Their voices guided the development of a long-term vision that focuses on maintaining and enhancing the spaces where our children learn, grow, and succeed. This plan reflects a careful balance of stewardship and strategic investment: maintaining the integrity of our buildings, supporting up-to-date educational spaces, and strengthening our ability to attract and retain families in our community. To be clear, the district will not be pursuing a dome in this plan, but will instead focus on the maintenance and efficient operation of our current facilities.
As we move forward, you will see communication that highlights the core features of the plan, the timelines involved, and the opportunities for continued community feedback. Transparency and collaboration will remain at the heart of every step. Currently, the district is conducting a survey about how we can better communicate and we encourage all members of the community to participate.
In the coming weeks and months, we will host community discussions, share visual concepts, and provide detailed information to help every resident understand both the “why” and the “how” behind this initiative. We will do this slowly and methodically so as to not overwhelm, but to inform each step of the way.
This plan is more than a facilities update—it is a commitment to our children and to the future of Au Gres-Sims. By investing in strong roots today, we allow our district to continue growing, thriving, and expanding opportunities for all students.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Au Gres-Sims School District. Together, we will continue building a school community that is vibrant, welcoming, and #PoweredByPurpose.
With deep appreciation,
Chris Ming
Superintendent
Au Gres-Sims School District