The Whitehall Public Schools Board of Education convened for their regular meeting on September 16, 2025, to address district operations, financial updates, and ongoing improvement initiatives. Below is a summary of the key topics discussed.
Opening Business
The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the approval of the evening’s agenda and consent agenda with unanimous votes. There were no public comments submitted at the start of the meeting.
Student Engagement Initiative
Paula Martin, Secretary, reported on recent efforts to build relationships with students at Whitehall High School.
- Board members are visiting the school during lunchtime once a month to hear directly from students about their experiences and ideas.
- The initiative aims to strengthen communication between the board and students.
- Board Members plan to encourage participation by providing small incentives, such as candy, and will work closely with school leadership to coordinate future visits.
Financial Report
The district’s monthly financial update highlighted several key points:
- Expense Increase:
- Higher costs compared to last year are largely due to billing cycle changes with the new custodial contractor, who now invoices at the beginning of the month rather than the end.
- Summer facility upgrades, including floor refinishing, also contributed to the increase.
- Childcare Operations:
- Early childcare programs operated for the entire month of August this year, unlike the previous year when they started later.
- Summer Meal Program Success:
- The food service team distributed 33,320 meals over six weeks during the summer, using locally sourced produce.
- This program was part of a federal initiative and received praise for its positive community impact.
- State Budget Concerns:
- The state has not yet finalized the school funding budget.
- The district hopes to have clarity by October 20, aligning with the first state aid payment date.
Student Representative Report
Student representatives shared highlights from the start of the school year:
- Academics:
- Whitehall High School continues to expand opportunities through dual enrollment, early college, and AP classes.
- A new attendance and cell phone policy has been implemented to reduce classroom distractions.
- Clubs & Events:
- National Honor Society will host legacy projects, a Veterans Appreciation Game, and a haunted trail fundraiser.
- Student Council is actively preparing for Homecoming on October 4.
- Athletics:
- The football team earned an impressive win over Zeeland West.
- Boys soccer, led by new head coach and Whitehall alumnus Dylan McCartney, is off to a strong start.
- Volleyball hosted Teacher Appreciation Night and continues to build momentum under Coach Claire McGrew.
- Marching Band:
- The band will compete in its first competition on September 27 in Grand Haven.
Superintendent’s Bond Proposal Presentation
Superintendent Van Wieren delivered a detailed presentation about the November 4, 2025 bond proposal, which seeks $30 million to address critical facility upgrades.
Key Details:
- Ballot Language:
- The proposal restores the district’s debt levy to 5 mills, matching 2024 levels, after a temporary reduction to 3.2 mills in 2025.
- For a home with a taxable value of $100,000, the yearly tax impact would be $180, consistent with the 2024 winter tax bill.
- Comparison to Other Districts:
- Whitehall currently has one of the lowest millage rates in Muskegon County.
- The regional average is 7.41 mills, while Whitehall is at 5 mills.
- Project Identification Process:
- The district identified 150+ needed projects, narrowing them down to the most urgent priorities to minimize taxpayer burden.
- Input was gathered through staff, student, and community focus groups, as well as an independent facilities assessment.
- Planned Upgrades:
- Heating & Cooling Systems: Replacement of outdated boilers and installation of classroom unit ventilators to create consistent, comfortable learning environments.
- Cafeteria & Kitchen Renovations: Enhancements to improve noise control, efficiency, and overall dining experience.
- Technology Upgrades: New classroom equipment and electrical system improvements districtwide.
- High School Security: Redesign of the main entrance to improve safety with secure, controlled access.
- Cost-Saving Adjustments:
- Plans focus on renovation over new construction, significantly reducing costs compared to the failed 2023 proposal.
Next Steps:
- Absentee Ballots: Begin mailing on September 25, 2025.
- Community Information Sessions: The district will continue to provide updates and direct residents to the bond proposal website for FAQs and detailed project breakdowns.
Closed Session – Student Reinstatement Hearing
The board entered a closed session to discuss a student reinstatement request.
- After reviewing the case, the board unanimously voted to deny reinstatement for a student.
- This decision was based on a roll-call vote following a private discussion to protect the student’s confidentiality.
MASB Delegate Selection
- Rachel Fekken was appointed as Whitehall Public Schools’ delegate for the 2025 MASB Delegate Assembly, part of the annual state conference.
Key Upcoming Dates
- Sept. 25: Absentee ballots mailed
- Sept. 27: Marching Band competition in Grand Haven
- Oct. 4: Whitehall High School Homecoming
- Oct. 20: Anticipated state funding update
- Nov. 4: Bond proposal election
Whitehall District Schools Board Meeting Recap – August 18, 2025
