Community Investment in Action

In May of 2024 our community came together to support the schools by investing $22.3 million for a no tax rate increase bond program. This important investment prioritized safety and security, created future-ready learning spaces and improved our district’s most critical infrastructure needs. Thank you Newaygo Community for investing in our students’ future. 

Safety & Security Enhancements:

Ensuring safe and secure learning spaces with the addition or replacement of aging systems at ALL school buildings:

• New entrance doors

• New fire alarm systems

• Security camera upgrades

• New bell systems

• Secure windows

Learning Environment Updates:

• Providing engaging learning experiences for all K-12 students, including updates to Newaygo MS and HS. 

• Equip learning environments with:

  • Flexible furniture

  • Integrated technology

  • Small group and project based learning spaces

Improving Infrastructure:

• Replace systems and finishes at the end of their useful life cycle including:

  • Upgrading mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems 

  • Replace roofing, parking lots and sidewalks

• New HS gym floor

• Replace track and fencing at HS Stadium

step 1: bond approval

• Building needs identified via facility assessment study.

• Projects estimated, prioritized, and selected based on bond funds.

• Board approves bond measure for ballot.

• Voters approve the bond.

• Bond sells.

step 2: design phase

• Tower Pinkster (architect) designs projects based on bond scope.

• Design includes blueprints, specifications, and compliance with codes.

• Finalized plans handed to The Christman Company (construction team) for procurement.

step 3: bid solicitation

• Construction team develops work categories and issues bids.

• Bids advertised publicly and listed on state website.

• Sealed bids opened publicly for consideration.

step 4: bid award

• Bids compiled, compared, and recommendations made to school board.

• School board approves selected contractors.

For More Information:

Contact: 

Pat Zawacki, Vice President, The Christman Company
pat.zawacki@christmanco.com

Ben Globke, Project Manager, The Christman Company
ben.globke@christmanco.com

Ben Gilpin, Superintendent, Newaygo Public Schools
bgilpin@newaygo.net