Martin bond construction project to be done by August

by Austin Marsman

Project Manager Mike Hammis gave the Martin Board of Education an update on the $17.1 million bond construction project and offered a tour Monday after the regular meeting.

Overall, Hammis said he is happy with the progress, telling the board “We are on schedule and things are going well.” He started his update by passing along the news that 100 percent of the concrete floors have been poured and the masons are pretty much done on the project. The brick exterior is moving along nicely, he said, and the structural steel is almost complete.

The walking track above the new gymnasium is scheduled to be rubberized in mid-March and the gym floor will be done in early April. The home grandstands and press box were erected last week. Hammis told the board the project is on track to be completed by August.

In other business the board:

· Accepted the resignations of Brad Blauvelt (junior varsity head football coach) and Kristie Tuinstra (bus driver).

· Accepted the retirement of Colleen Vader, a fifth grade teacher at Brandon Elementary. Vader has logged more than 20 years at Martin Schools. Superintendent David Harnish said, “she has been a blessing, and we wish her all the best”.

· Was told by Harnish that 10,000 pounds of solar equipment was delivered last week and plans are in motion to install the solar panels on the roof soon.

· Discussed whether bus drivers should be paid on an hourly basis versus the per-run system in place now. “Our plan is to talk to the bus drivers and see what they think,”said Board President Jennifer Harrison.

· Celebrated the achievements of Martin band students at the MSBOA competitions earlier this month. Three out of four students earned a “one” rating and will advance to state.

· Recognized the Odyssey of the Mind program and the two teams advancing to state finals. The High School Vehicle Team placed first in “Triathlon Travels” and a Middle School Structure team also placed first, but in “Animal House.” Seven teams total competed at regionals in Wayland last Saturday.

· Acknowledged that the newly-formed bowling team is advancing to state finals.

· Discussed the many added opportunities for Martin Students, including HOSA, bowling, Odyssey of the Mind, MSBOA, among others. “It’s nice to see a variety of interests that students are able to access,” commented Harrison.

(Photos courtesy of Austin Marsman)

COVER: The Board of Education and community members take in the scene of a new auditorium, which will seat more than 400.