APS Board Workshop April 2026

The Alpena Public Schools Board Workshop held on April 21, 2026, focused extensively on the condition and future plans for the high school weight room and physical education facilities. Multiple community members, including coaches, students, and staff, advocated for relocating the weight room from its current outdated and unsafe basement location to a more suitable space within the high school. The board discussed two main options: a temporary move to adjacent classrooms with some remodeling and equipment upgrades, or a longer-term capital improvement project potentially funded by a bond. Cost estimates for the temporary move were around $300,000, with some funding already identified, including a $30,000 donation. The board also considered the potential for integrating the new facility with Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and discussed the importance of community support for future funding initiatives. Additionally, the meeting covered space needs for the Family Partnership and NEMSCA preschool programs, exploring options to renovate existing classrooms to accommodate growth. The board reviewed a Safe Routes to School grant opportunity involving pedestrian and cyclist safety improvements, with a potential district contribution of $15,000 and partial funding from the city. Finally, the board received an update on the district's artificial intelligence (AI) initiative, including plans to implement AI tools like Magic School and Gemini to support differentiated instruction and digital literacy, with a proposed three-year contract pending approval. Throughout the meeting, the board emphasized transparency, community engagement, and careful consideration of budget and facility planning to enhance student safety, educational quality, and operational efficiency.