What’s on the Ballot?  

Mellen’s referendum question asks for authorization to borrow $2,000,000 for a district-wide school building and facility improvement project, including:  

• Elementary Roof Removal and Replacement to repair the oldest roof portion (1992) of the school building.

• Science Lab Renovations to update the science lab to support hands-on learning and STEM education.

• Gymnasium Floor Replacement to ensure a safer, more reliable, and long-lasting space for students, athletes, and community events.

• Back Parking Lot removal and repavement to enhance safety for students, families, and staff during arrival and dismissal.

• Doors and Entryway upgrades throughout the building to specific doors and entry points (flooring) to enhance security and accessibility as needed.

• Replacement of 1968 High School Lockers for a better student experience.

• Remodel of the Main Office Entrance Bathroom to repair outdated and malfunctioning plumbing.

• Replacement of Compressor for Existing Kitchen Freezer.

• Furniture, fixtures, and equipment updates in targeted areas throughout the school building.

If approved by voters, the referendum will address significant needs within the District, which cannot be addressed within the District’s annual budget. 

Updating Our School and Infrastructure

To ensure our schools remain safe, functional, and welcoming, the School District of Mellen is committed to a proactive approach in maintaining and improving our facilities. This includes:

• Facilities Study (click here to view the Facilities Study)
  A comprehensive facilities study was completed in 2023 to assess the condition of our buildings and identify priority areas for improvement.

• Long-Range Planning
  The outcomes of the facilities study are guiding our long-range planning efforts, ensuring that future investments align with the district’s educational goals and community needs.

Capital Maintenance Priorities – 

Phased Approach

• Phase 1 – April 2026

  • Elementary Roof Replacements

  •  Science Lab Renovations - Updating the science lab to support hands-on learning and STEM education.

  • Gymnasium Floor Replacement – Replacing the aging gym floor will ensure a safer, more reliable, and long-lasting space for students, athletes, and community events.

  • Back Parking Lot - Enhancing safety for students, families, and staff during arrival and dismissal.

  • Doors and Entryways - Upgrading specific doors and entry points to enhance security and accessibility as needed.

  • Replace High School Lockers

  • Remodel Office Bathroom

  • Replace Existing Freezer Compressor

  • Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment updates

• Phase 2 – Future (Timeline TBD) - 

The comprehensive facilities study completed by CESA 10 in 2023 identified many areas of need; our District facilities have served generations and now require updates to meet current safety standards for education, accessibility, and security. The Board of Education has committed to continue updating and maintining our school building in a fiscally responsible way in order to provide a safe, high-quality educational facility for our Mellen Diggers.