An increase in funding could be a game-changer for Suttons Bay Public Schools.
Superintendent Casey Petz announced Friday that the district will move to “outof- formula” status as a result of local tax collections exceeding per pupil funding levels provided for the state.
“We have been closely monitoring our local, state and federal funding every year and always knew that the property values in our district, coupled with slower growth in per-pupil from the state, would eventually lead to this reality for SBPS,” Petz said. “Being an out-of-formula district will enable us to expand our education offerings, invest heavily in our in-person programs and instructional resources, and provide even greater support for our students and staff.”
As an out-of-formula district, Suttons Bay will benefit from additional financial flexibility and stability in the years ahead. Suttons Bay has been the only school in the county relying on the state per pupil foundation allowance which this year is $9,608.
Glen Lake, Leland and Northport have been out-of-formula for some time.
“Demographically we are different from our neighbors and our funding is not equitable,” Petz said.
Revenue from the 18-mill levy on nonhomestead and commercial properties will generate more than the $9,680 foundation allowance now received from the state.
The move to out-of-formula will allow the district to allocated resources more equitably and adequately, ensuring that all students receive the highest quality education possible.
“With increased funding from local taxes, we can expand our educational offerings, invest heavily in our in-person programs and instructional resources, and provide even greater support of our students and staff,” Petz said.
The change in status dovetails plans for renovations at the school funded with an $18.3 million bond proposal approved by voters in May.
Among the key priorities for the district are safety/security upgrades; sequencing of north wing, demolition and boiler replacement; completing projects that reduce costs, saving energy, and “rightsizing” the campus and buildings.
In 2009, Suttons Bay School became the first school district in the area to offer virtual instruction. Students from all around the region have received online instruction through this program.
In fact, the number of Virtual graduates last spring was nearly equal with in-seat seniors at 34.
As of Tuesday, Suttons Bay’s virtual enrollment stood at 140.
Petz said there will be no open school of choice for virtually.
“Our focus will be in-seat instruction,” he said “It will be a while to process the change (in funding) and what that means for Suttons Bay.”
