Blakewood Building Project Update

 

Dear Blakewood Community,

We wanted to update you on the construction trades project that had a potential impact on the Blakewood woods to the south of the playground.  For those who did not receive the information, the School District of South Milwaukee was approached by the Oak Creek-Franklin School District to partner on a construction trades program wherein our high school students would be able to work side-by-side with licensed contractors to build homes.  

 

The board gave permission to move forward with an investigation to determine whether it was possible to build on the land south of Blakewood Elementary School and then seek community feedback on the idea. We had a surveyor assess the land and proposed to consider building on the gravel parking lot near the baseball field. We then held community information sessions in November to seek community input.  

 

We appreciated all who came out to share their input at the informational meetings, those who emailed, and those who came to the board meeting.  We heard from more than 50 community members who all expressed interest in the School District of South Milwaukee continuing to pursue hands-on, career-specific projects that help our students to be more engaged and have greater job prospects after high school.  However, many do not want us to start that project on the land next to Blakewood for fear it would disrupt the natural green space and create congestion in that area.  

 

We have decided not to move forward with any building on the land connected to Blakewood Elementary School.  We will continue to find other avenues for our students to pursue careers in construction trades and earn certifications during their time in high school so they are positioned for excellent jobs or for further education after high school.  

 

Please look for future updates about how we continue to expand our programming to best meet the needs of our students and thank you for your input.  

Deidre Roemer

Superintendent