STAPLES — Wide-ranging updates and additions will be coming to Staples-Motley schools after voters approved a bond referendum Tuesday, April 14.
The referendum passed with 60% in favor, according to unofficial results, with 862 yes votes and 580 no votes.
“There’s a relief and a very positive vibe for our kids,” Superintendent Shane Tappe said in an interview Wednesday. “Our community showed up for our kids and that definitely is being mirrored among our staff and students this morning.”
Tappe said the timing was right for the $42.5 million ask, with other district debt expiring. The new debt will replace the old, so residents won’t see property taxes increase because of the referendum.
The district will now begin a nine-month design process before breaking ground on additions to the elementary and middle/high schools. The new space will allow the fifth grade to move back to the elementary and new career and technical education facilities.
Over the next three years, the district will also work on a variety of other improvements, including remodeling classrooms and restrooms, updating furniture and fixtures, addressing deferred building maintenance, updating the auditorium and replacing the track and upgrading other athletic facilities.
Tappe noted that every district neighboring Staples-Motley has made improvements through a bond referendum.
“I’m just proud of our staff and our community and our kids,” Tappe said. “It’s been a long-time coming for the Staples-Motley school district to have something like this happen.”
-
During the week of April 14, 2026, we enjoy reports of blooming bloodroot, Fox Sparrows, and a two-footed coyote. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds. -
During the Phenology Report for the week of April 14, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on Pileated Woodpeckers "tapping out love notes" and spring's imminent arrival. -
Duluth artist Carolyn Olson’s exhibit “Mutual Aid and Chosen Family” is at the MacRostie Art Center in Grand Rapids until April 25, 2026.
