By Steve Stiffler
The Engadine Consolidated Schools Board of Education voted to enter a $15,00 pre-bond agreement with SiteLogiQ in a quest for a statewide infrastructure grant to fund school repairs. That vote was decided at the board’s March 18 meeting.
SiteLogiQ has successfully secured grant funding with schools throughout Michigan. For Engadine, the goal is to secure $8.1 million to address major facility needs. These include HVAC upgrades, roof repairs, or possibly replacing old boilers, some of which date back to the 1930s and 1940s.
As part of the proposed partnership, SiteLogiQ would assist the district by identifying and writing grant applications, and provide a comprehensive building assessment at no cost to the district. If the district pursues a bond, SiteLogiQ would also assist with community outreach, marketing, and financial feasibility planning to help ensure affordability for taxpayers. If a grant is not awarded, the district would not owe any payment to SiteLogiQ.
In other news, Superintendent Andrew Alvesteller said he is working with the 11th Circuit Court and Judge Beth Gibson at addressing chronic absenteeism.
The proposed initiative would bring together all Mackinac County superintendents to coordinate efforts aimed at improving attendance, including working with families on intervention strategies and, if necessary, pursuing legal action in cases of chronic absenteeism.
Alvesteller said chronic absenteeism remains a concern, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Current interventions, including letters, phone calls and in-person meetings, have had limited success, and the district has limited legal options to address chronic absenteeism.
The board also voted on several personnel changes within the athletic department.
Gregg Franckowiak resigned from his position as co-athletic director and was approved as the new girls varsity track coach. Randy Kerr resigned as varsity track coach and was approved as the district’s new golf coach. Victoria Shafer was approved as an additional varsity track coach.
