By Dennis Volkert
Sturgis Public Schools Board of Education on Feb. 17 approved a purchase of a new bus, at cost of just over $142,700, from Hoekstra Transportation. Funding will come from the 2025-26 budget.
Delivery of the vehicle is expected in early summer 2025, said Ray Sterling, director of finance.
The district had considered buying two buses, but decided to delay a decision on the second unit, Sterling said.
Also discussed at the meeting was recommendation of an architectural and engineering firm to collaborate with SPS regarding “re-imagining” physical spaces throughout the district.
It’s one element of a strategic plan, established in 2024.
Wightman was selected from among 11 entities that submitted a bit.
The board’s facilities committee reviewed all bids, narrowed the field to six, with focus on organizations that are within the region. One of those withdrew.
The first interview process took place Jan. 21 and Jan. 23.
On Feb. 6, the committee reviewed results, and held an additional interview for each of two semifinalists on Feb. 10.
At the board meeting, Ben Myers and Justin Kellermeijer outlined some of the advantages of what Wightman can offer in context of district goals:
- Longevity of the company specific to education-related projects
- Innovation for classroom needs
- Closest match to strategic plan among candidates
“Generally, we’re going to get better service and better projects,” Myers told fellow board members.
Kellermeier said Wightman made reference to the specific development concept more frequently than other candidates.
A separate segment at the meeting was a presentation by educators for proposed enhancements to the science curriculum.
The plan involves funding estimates to obtain materials and equipment for science instruction at K-2 and the high school. It comprises categories of biology, chemistry, physics, electives and advanced placement.
Details of the science proposal is available for public reviewe for the next 30 days at Sturgis Central Commons. When that period has passed, the request will be presented formally to the board of education for consideration.
The school board had planned to hold a closed session for mid-year evaluation of superintendent Art Ebert. That was postponed until March.
