News Summary

The Marinette School Board is making significant changes, including upgrading the high school soccer area path and introducing a new principal at Marinette High School. Additionally, plans to sell Garfield Elementary School are underway, with a tentative agreement aiming to transform the site into housing. The board is also managing escrow funds related to the property’s sale, emphasizing careful financial decisions to benefit the district and community.

Exciting Updates from Marinette: School Board Makes Big Moves!

Marinette has been buzzing with activity lately, and the latest meeting of the Marinette School Board was no exception! On Tuesday evening, board members gathered to tackle a few important projects that promise to make a positive impact on students and the community.

Soccer Path Gets a Facelift

First up on the agenda was the decision to give a much-needed upgrade to the high school soccer area path. After some discussion, the board came together and unanimously approved to repave the path at a cost of $25,935. The lower section of the current paved access path has been having issues, sitting about 4-6 inches below ground level. This led to water collecting and making it tough for students to use the asphalt path—a situation no one wants when it’s time for practice or matches!

A New Face for Marinette High School

Switching gears, the school board introduced the new principal of Marinette High School. The fresh appointment goes to Justin Bardowski, who previously served as the principal at Menominee High School. While he’s excited to step into his new role, he also expressed a sense of bittersweetness about leaving behind relationships he built up at Menominee. It’s a new chapter for Bardowski, and everyone is eager to see the vision he brings to Marinette High.

Garfield Elementary’s Future Looks Bright

On another note, the Marinette School District has been actively working to sell the former Garfield Elementary School site. Recent developments show that the district is close to finalizing a sale, with a tentative agreement in place to convert the property into housing. While the deal isn’t completely wrapped up yet, it’s a step in the right direction that could breathe new life into the area.

The board also recently turned down offers from St. Thomas Aquinas Academy who expressed interest in acquiring the elementary school. The board cited potential financial losses for the district as the reason for their decision. Keeping the district’s finances healthy is a priority, and they’re making sure to weigh every option carefully.

Making Heads or Tails of Escrow Funds

As discussions continue regarding the sale of the Garfield Elementary property, there are also talks about $55,000 in escrow funds. These funds are under the scrutiny of a neutral attorney due to disagreements between the seller and the prospective purchaser on how to disburse the money. Finding a solution is key, and it’s hoped that this will be resolved soon.

A Cash Offer for Garfield Elementary

Back on July 30, 2024, the board accepted a cash offer of $265,500 from a company known as Anything You Want, LLC for the Garfield School property. However, not all board members were on board with the decision, as two members voted against the sale. The proposal is expected to be further discussed in a closed session as the board prepares to execute the necessary documents for closing by February 10, 2025.

In conclusion, it’s an exciting time for Marinette as changes unfold at Marinette High School and with the Garfield Elementary property. The school board remains dedicated to making thoughtful choices that will shape the future of education and the community. Keep an eye out for more updates as these projects develop!

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