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CASSOPOLIS — The Cassopolis School Board celebrated School Board Recognition Month and welcomed their newest members at their first regular monthly meeting of the new year.

Re-elected board members Amanda Smego and Aaron Steensma were sworn in, along with new trustee Joshua Stoops. 

Officers were also elected. Deborah Deubner, Amanda Smego, and Teresa Dahlgren resumed their positions of Board President, Board Vice President, and Board Secretary, respectively. Heather Beaudoin was chosen to act as Treasurer. Former Treasurer Jesse Bement endorsed Beaudoin for the position. A Building and Grounds Committee was formed to help the board prepare for upcoming projects, based on the district’s upcoming no-mill increase bond proposal.

The board voted to accept a gift of multiple 3D printers, valued at $2200 from Timberwolf Consulting Group. Multiple members of the board shared their gratitude toward the company for the donation and other efforts at Cassopolis Schools, including volunteering in various capacities and working with and employing students.

“The gentleman from Timberwolf seems to be very involved with our school. I think he really has a heart for the kids and I appreciate that,” Deubner said.

Superintendent Dr. John Ritzler reported a $1000 Strengthening Schools Grant from Midwest Energy & Communications that was awarded to Jessica Pompey, the Lead Teacher at the Cassopolis Adult/Alternative Education Center.

He also read the proclamation by Governor Gretchen Whitmer regarding School Board Recognition Month and presented thank you gifts from all administrators to the board.

Business Manager James English reported that information on the district’s upcoming bond proposal is now available on the school website and in materials available in the vestibules of each school building. He encouraged members to spread the word, highlighting the importance of an informed community. He also stated that those with questions about the bond could reach out to him or Superintendent Ritzler.

“We want to talk to anyone that has questions, that has comments,” said English.

The website can be found at cassopolis.ss6.sharpschool.com/district_/2025bond.

English reported an unknown future in the school budget regarding a December attempt to alter Public Act 152, regarding the district spending cap on health insurance for employees. A bill increasing the amount passed in both the Michigan House and Senate while controlled by Democrats in December, but it was not sent to the Governor for signing. With the Michigan Legislature now controlled by Republicans, the future of the change is uncertain.

The school board voted to relinquish federal funds totaling $238 relating to Title III, Part A, Immigrant Student Funding. According to English, the requirements for complying with the program would cost the district more than the amount being received. They also reapproved Kruggel Lawton CPAs to act as auditors of the financial district.

In a closed session, the board met to discuss the most recent review of the superintendent. No action was taken.