Don't get me wrong....

Today's Chronicle reports a tsunami of praise for those receiving the largesse of our wonderful Muskegon taxpayers. I think most folks think that MPS does a reasonably good job but calling their financial management a "miracle" seems a bit of a stretch.
"That we still are maintaining the quality of education in Muskegon Public Schools is nothing short of a miracle," Michalski said.
Director of Support Services Gary Privasky is expected to be promoted to executive director of administrative services with a salary increase of $3,176. He currently earns $92,267 annually.
Huh? $92,267 per YEAR? And a $3,176 raise? How many of these salaries are being paid by this "Miracle" school system? Does anyone wonder?
The district has arrived at its dismal financial picture for a variety of reasons. Revenues from per-pupil state aid are stagnant, but enrollment has dropped the last several years and could drop some more.
In addition, the district is anticipating having to pay $913,604 more in salaries because of increased seniority and an anticipated 1 percent negotiated pay increase.
Health insurance costs are expected to rise by 18 percent or $1.5 million."
Maybe it's time the Chronicle honchos did a front page story on where all the money goes?
read it all

Was this a close vote?

That's $7500 per student per year. I wonder how that compares to charter and private schools in the area.
New School Ain't Cheap
Whitehall District Schools operates on a $16.5 million budget with 280 employees and 2,200 students.

The new 750-student high school, on land formerly in Whitehall Township but annexed to the city of Whitehall in 2002,

Will Great Lakes Downs reopen?

Sunday's Chronicle says there might be hope.....from MLive