GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – This year’s academic calendar is coming to a close, but Grand Rapids leaders are looking ahead to the next school year with the hopes that facility upgrades will become a reality.

Grand Rapids Public Schools will ask voters to approve a $305 million dollar bond in November to address improving facilities they say will create a better learning environment.

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School leaders say it would not raise taxes above the current rate. The district needs to funds to support its facilities master plan. With enrollment down 30-percent over the last 14 years, many of its buildings are being underutilized.

Many buildings need repair and upgrades to be safe and secure environments for students. The deadline to get on the November ballot is August 15^th.