FLINT, Mich. — Flint Community Schools has completed a multimillion-dollar project that showcases new playgrounds and athletic areas for students.
The project was announced during a homecoming celebration and open house showcasing the new renovations at Brownell STEM Academy and Holmes STEM Middle School Academy on the city’s north side.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments thus far and eagerly anticipate the future completion of the Cube, playgrounds and track areas,” Flint Community Schools Superintendent Kevelin Jones said in a press release.
The updates were funded by $14 million in grants from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and $26 million in federal support from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) fund, which helps schools address the impact of COVID-19.
Improvements include facade upgrades for each building, an Early Childhood wing, two new playgrounds, replacement of the running track, updates to the football field, and the installation of basketball courts.
Parking lot renovations will reroute the flow of traffic toward the Early Childhood wing and a new community hub called “The Cube.”
The Cube is a 5,000-square-foot building that will be open to students, staff and the surrounding community. The Flint Center for Educational Excellence and the Brownell-Holmes Neighborhood Association will partner to host activities.
This new hub will be open to the public for neighborhood meetings, adult education classes, senior services and after school programming.