The Wayland Union High Schools’ Robotics team this weekend is competing in the state contest at Grand Valley State University, placing third at the end of the first day.

The Wildcats’ group No. 6090 was a national quarterfinalist and proponents of the May 2 bond proposal are highlighting this program’s success as one of the benefactors of passage of bond in the special election Tuesday, May 2.

A School Bond Committee spokesperson said, “Many STEM courses are offered to students as part of the curriculum at Wayland, and students have the opportunity to further this knowledge in after-school programs such as robotics. We know that opportunities that can lead to careers in the fields of industrial technology are so important for our students’ futures.”

School officials say funding from a “yes” vote on the $49.7 million proposal will provide funding so that students in this robotics program “can have the necessary, dedicated space in the high school that they haven’t had before.”

Meanwhile, Wayland schools’ bond informational pamphlets are being distributed to local businesses for customers to see.

The current choir room is also a space that has grown inadequate for the modern high school choral program — no air conditioning or windows and not enough space to spread out, store uniforms and supplies, and practice.

A yes vote would allow the district to remodel the current band room so the choir program can move into that larger space.

These proposed improvements are just some of the plans intended to extend the life and improve functionality of school buildings, enabling them to continue serving our community and students well into the future.

The Wayland Union May 2 bond will provide funding to renovate areas in all district buildings, not just the high school! This includes:

• Updated furnishings and technology in all buildings. 

• Updated restroom facilities to meet ADA compliance for differently-abled students, staff and families (Pine, Baker, Dorr, Steeby)

 • Middle School roof repairs/replacement and window and exterior door replacement in the older wings.

• Updated windows and doors for better safety and security.

• Expanded community room at the administration building for school and community needs and a growing senior citizen Leisure Life program.

The spokesperson added, “Our goal is to keep all students safe, warm and dry. All projects would result in district educational spaces that develop, support, challenge, and inspire students to be lifelong learners and productive citizens – with zero mills = no increase to school tax payments of 8.4 mills per year. Approving the bond would result instead in lengthening the period the bond would be applied.

Residents are reminded they have the option of voting by mail, in addition to showing up in person at their local clerk’s office or designated polling site.