The Covert Public Schools Board of Education has approved $6,163,250 in facility improvements, funded through the district's existing school fund balance. The projects are currently scheduled for completion in 2027.
The investment includes improvements to building systems and athletic facilities that support students, staff, and the broader school community.
“These improvements represent an important investment in our schools and the students, staff, and community members who use these facilities every day,” said Superintendent Joe Allen. “The current Covert Public Schools’ Board of Education has been instrumental in allowing this project to take place. From improving building systems and indoor environments to upgrading the spaces where students learn, compete and gather, these projects address important facility needs while helping ensure our schools continue to serve our community well.”
Building System Improvements
The project includes air-handling unit replacements in the gym and cafeteria, auditorium, locker rooms, guidance office, and athletic office. These improvements are intended to address and improve the air quality and comfort in these frequently used spaces.
Athletic Facility Improvements
Students learn, grow, build relationships, and develop skills in many of the spaces a school provides. Athletic facilities are part of that experience. They can also become some of the most visible gathering places for the broader school community.
The athletic portion of the investment includes:
● Replacement of the track
● Improvements to the field event areas
● Replacing/leveling the natural turf surface and irrigation system
● New ADA-compliant home-side bleachers and press box
● New concession stand with ADA-compliant bathrooms
- Existing concession stand will be converted to storage
● Scoreboard replacement
● Stadium lighting upgrades
● General site improvements
How Priorities Were Identified
This first phase of improvements reflects information gathered through professional facility assessments, along with input from Covert students, staff, and community members through recent facility surveys. The district will continue building on this work as it evaluates and prioritizes future facility improvements.
Separate Elementary Ventilation Project
In addition to the Board-approved facility improvements, Covert Public Schools is completing a separate ventilation project at Covert Elementary School supported in part by a 2024 Michigan Environmental Justice Impact Grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
The approximately $1,000,000 project includes new ventilation equipment, building management system improvements, new controls and temperature, humidity, and carbon-dioxide sensors. The project is designed to improve indoor air quality and make the school's HVAC system more efficient.
Recent improvements at the elementary school also include improved privacy in the boys' bathrooms, along with plans to double the number of water fountains and add filters.
Looking Ahead
A facility improvements webpage is now available on the Covert Public Schools website. The page provides details about current projects and timelines, along with information about the district's ongoing approach to planning for future facility needs.
Visit: https://www.covertps.org/page/facility-improvements-planning