The new building would have upgraded classrooms, security, playgrounds and technology. Cost for the project was estimated at $26 million, with the school district already awarded a $15.4 million state grant earlier this year that will cover about 60% of the cost.

In Tuesday’s election, the vote from the North Central district — which includes Meyer Township, Spalding Township and parts of Gourley and Harris Townships in Menominee County — was 589, or 58.2%, in favor to 423, or 41.8%, opposed.

The estimated millage for the bonds in 2026 will be 2.80 mills, or $2.80 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation, for a 2.20 mills net increase over the previous year’s levy. The maximum timeframe over which the $10.3 million plus interest can be repaid is 22 years.

Currently, North Central Area Schools has about 300 students enrolled from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade spread between two buildings: an elementary school in Hermansville that houses up to fifth grade, and a junior/senior high school that teaches sixth through 12th grades in Powers. The new plan is to refurbish and add onto the Powers facility so all grades will be on that campus, saving the costs of maintaining two buildings.

A preliminary plan for the future combined facility on the site of the current North Central Junior/Senior High School. Areas in white are existing sections that would remain; pink areas would be newly built. (Courtesy image)

“We are incredibly grateful to our community for supporting this vision for the future of North Central Area Schools,” North Central Superintendent Travis Depuydt said. “This bond approval marks a major milestone in our journey to provide safe, modern, and inspiring learning spaces for every Jet.”

Now that the money for consolidation will be secured, architects and a construction manager will finalize plans. The works will likely be sent out for bids in 2026, subcontractors will be hired, and the goal is for construction in Powers to begin in spring 2027.

The North Central Elementary School in Hermansville, shown, will in a few years no longer be used by the school district, which will be consolidating to an upgraded facility in Powers. Consolidation will be made possible through a state grant and a bond that voters approved Tuesday. (Photo provided by North Central Elementary)