An Alternative Elementary Configuration A Programmatically Progressive and Sustainable Structure

Goals of Proposal Build upon the K-4, 5-6 configuration Maintain and strengthen our 100 year relationship with MSU with increased collaborations Create a model system that brings community members to the District while strengthening our reputation of excellence Insure that transitions do not disadvantage special needs populations Retain model programs that are educationally sound and self supporting

Proposal 1: 5-6 Fine Arts Magnet School at Whitehills Create a Fine Arts Magnet School at the northern campus 5-6 building, currently proposed at Whitehills Elementary. Empty rooms could be designated for fine arts activities Students could interface with MSU Community Music School at Timberlane Campus during and after school hours. Other community affiliations (e.g., Kresge Arts Center at MSU) could be developed Transportation and non instructional costs subsidized by parents and/or fundraising efforts

Proposal 2: 5-6 Science and Technology Magnet School at Spartan Village Create a Science and Technology Magnet School at the southern campus 5-6 building Switching 5-6 cluster from Glencairn to Spartan Village More available space at Spartan permits science labs and other technology facilities Students could interface with MSU Cyclotron and other life sciences facilities Transportation and non instructional costs subsidized by parents and/or fundraising efforts Retains the MSU Spartan/Red Cedar revenue

Proposal 3: Retain Early Childhood Program in District MSU Spartan/Red Cedar Funds used to retain Early Childhood program (FDK, Young 5s, PPI, and PPHI) in half of Pinecrest building with other half focusing on grades Potential for FDK in Marble where space exists to support the program

Proposal 4: Retasking Glaincairn Elementary Ideal IB location for access by community Supportive neighborhood community for innovative program Possible overflow for HS students during construction Possible collaborations with MSU on Lab Preschool Extension Possible revenue generation from the ISD

Proposal Advantages Expands the clustering vision with magnet options for students Retains funding and strengthens relationship with MSU Retains some key programs and enhances others Retains Spartan Village space that would be lost to the district Encourages cross-district relationships Gives special ed students better options

Potential Issues Developmental time for the 5-6 Magnet Schools would be 1-2 years. Increased challenges and stress for staff members Additional classroom space required to implement Magnet concept Transportation issues would need to be addressed Fundraising needs would expand to accommodate the Magnet vision Staff training needed for Magnet More specific relationships must be developed with MSU and other community groups

Conclusions Clustering reinvents our district These changes keep proven elementary programs and expands others Let’s expand the clustering strategy and provide exciting new options for our students Reinvention requires greater collaboration and community involvement What do you think?