UCS begins its largest facility improvement project in history

The future of Utica Community Schools begins this summer!

Over the next few weeks, Utica Community Schools will begin work on the largest bond
issue in its history. UCS voters approved a $550 million bond issue by a nearly
70 percent majority on May 2, 2023.

“Thanks to the support of our community, Utica Community Schools is beginning a
transformational set of bond issue projects that will reimagine how our
facilities can support student achievement,” Superintendent Robert S. Monroe
said.

The first phase of the bond issue – $130 million – is now getting underway at sites
throughout Michigan’s second largest school district.

Safety remains the priority as each UCS school will receive improvements focused on a
secure learning environment.

The projects will also include the reconstruction of DeKeyser Elementary as a first step toward reimagining how its school facilities will inspire remarkable achievement for our students.

This vision will emphasize safe learning environments that utilize best design
practices while giving our staff space and tools to empower our students.

The DeKeyser design will serve as a template for new and reconstructed elementary schools. The designs give UCS staff access to state-of-the-art technology to support learning and multiple work areas for large and small group instruction.

Common “learning communities” will be created as flexible areas that staff can use to further student learning. Students will benefit from the space through collaborative activities, hands-on learning, and large group instruction. Areas will be available where teachers, paraprofessionals or
volunteers can work with individuals or small groups.

DeKeyser Elementary in Sterling Heights and other “open concept” schools - existing
elementary schools that do not have a complete set of interior walls or doors
for classroom areas – are being improved this summer. At DeKeyser, addressing
this critical need requires a complete reconstruction of the facility.

While the work is being completed, DeKeyser Elementary will be relocated to Rose Kidd Elementary, a former elementary in Sterling Heights that was closed in 2010. Improvements are now being made to refurbish Rose Kidd Elementary to house DeKeyser students and staff until their current building is completed in the Fall of 2025.