The Montague Area Public Schools Board of Education held its regular meeting on May 11. Residents from Montague and nearby areas attended to share their perspectives. The energy in the room showed families are closely watching decisions affecting student experiences and school culture.
LifeWise Academy Sparks Strong Community Reaction
Community members voiced concerns about the LifeWise Academy program, which offers religious instruction during school hours. Parents warned that elementary-aged students are impressionable. They also noted that incentives from the program could create divisions among classmates. Several speakers questioned the oversight of LifeWise as part of a national network. While legally permissible, residents stressed the program must be carefully managed to maintain a neutral and inclusive public school environment.
Principals Share Year-End Highlights
- Montague Area Childhood Center: Principal Jennifer Stoneman highlighted teacher appreciation week, Kindergarten Roundup, and Animal Day, which included playful rumors of a crocodile. End-of-year testing and Field Day were also noted.
- RRO Elementary: Principal Sandie Lundquist shared highlights from field trips, including a Whitecaps game and a fourth-grade performance with the West Michigan Symphony. End-of-year picnics and celebrations are approaching.
- NBC Middle School: Principal Jim Perreault reported the conclusion of state testing, progress on the middle school track, and upcoming events such as the band concert, Whiz Kid ceremony, and eighth-grade visits to the Career Tech Center.
- Montague High School: Senior awards and graduation, scheduled for Sunday at 2 p.m., were highlighted in Principal Thommen’s absence.
Superintendent Updates and District Operations
Superintendent Jeffrey Johnson provided key updates:
- Continuation of the Electric Forest transportation program.
- NBC Middle School principal interviews are in progress.
- Progress on the agriculture barn project.
- Approvals for new copiers and a maintenance coordinator.
- The board also approved the 2026–27 MAISD budget.
Budget, Operations, and Looking Ahead
Stacey Brown presented the district’s final budget amendment. It projects a fund balance of $2.2 million (10.4%) while accounting for state and federal grants and operational needs. Updates included continuation of the Electric Forest transportation program, NBC Middle School principal interviews, progress on the agriculture barn project, and approvals for new copiers and a maintenance coordinator. The board also approved the 2026–27 MAISD budget.
Why It Matters
The meeting highlighted the community’s investment in Montague schools. Debates on curriculum and outside programs, budget, and staffing decisions have tangible consequences for students, staff, and families. The packed room and passionate comments showed that residents are actively engaged in shaping local education.
Watch the Montague Area Public Schools: Board Meeting Stream May 11, 2026 below:
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