The Wayland Board of Education Monday night took the first step in making arrangements for the $49.7 million project that was approved by voters only last Tuesday.

The board adopted a resolution for the sale of the first $20 million of bonds, working with Huntington Financial Services. Supt. Tim Reeves then announced that the start of the bond project will be July 1-5.

The Bond project will include expansion at the high school to make way for construction of a new swimming pool and replacement of the old facility by the band, choir and wrestling programs.

Reeves told the board, “Yes, it’s a hurry-up, but then it will be a waiting process.”

In other business at its meeting Monday evening, the board:

• Had the first reading of a proposal to have the City of Wayland and the schools forge a partnership in hiring a service resource officer for 20 hours per week during the academic year. The three-year program will one paid for by a state grant and the officer will begin Aug. 1.

Reeves offered his support, saying, “It’s a great way to collaborate with the city and the police department.”

• Was told by Reeves there will be a joint City Council-Board of Education meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, May 15, at City Hall Council Chambers.
• Took no action on a proposal to spend $55,500 on continuation of the “Capturing Kids’ Hearts” behavioral program, which has been received positively this year by students and staff. Trustee Jeff Koon said he is uncomfortable with the costs because it was his understanding that the bill in 2022 would be the last. Assistant Supt. for Instruction Theresa Fulk said, “Legacy costs (training new teachers and process champions) could be sustained by our district PD (professional development) budget.”
• Welcomed an appearance and demonstration by members of the state champion robotics team.
• Approved the appointment of Trustee Norman Taylor as representative to the Allegan Area Service Agency election next month. BeckyHohnke was named as an alternate.