NORTH STAR ACADEMY

3030 Wright Street

Marquette, MI  49855

August, 2009

North Star Academy began plans to expand to include grades Early Fives through Grade 5 during Summer, 2008.  Due to a number of  reasons, funding for new construction was not finalized in time to build for September, 2009.  Approximately 80 students have enrolled in grades K through 6.  Sixth grade will be moved from the middle school to elementary school based on parent requests.  Current enrollment for grades 7 through 12 in the existing building is 104.

As an interim arrangement, the district will rent two portable classrooms for installation on site at North Star Academy to house the K-6 students. 

Each 70’ x 24’ classroom will house 3 classes and have minimal office space. Each has a maximum occupancy of 64; current projections are for 35 plus staff in one and 45 students plus staff in the second.  The portable classrooms are new.  Buildings and entrances are ADA compliant and meet Michigan Construction and Fire Marshall Code requirements

Minimal site excavation will take place prior to installation.  The construction company and architect who will build the addition worked with the district to identify the appropriate location.

Parents have indicated that the facility and site are of less importance to them than the North Star Academy educational program.

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Update 8/17/2009 – North Star Academy has made a promise to families that class sizes will remain small, to ensure a personalized education.  Several grade levels are reaching maximum capacity and may be closed soon. 

Clearning for the Elementary Building