I grew up in Saranac, where Friday night games at Saranac High School were the pinnacle of community life. From athletes pushing their limits on the track to the collective cheers echoing from the bleachers, the memories formed on those fields are cherished by countless families and students who pass through these halls.

However, Saranac High School's athletic facilities have not kept pace with our growing community and evolving needs. The track, with its worn and uneven surface, poses safety risks that shouldn’t be tolerated. It’s not just an inconvenience for our athletes; it’s a hindrance to their performance and a potential cause for injury. Meanwhile, the bleachers, old and precarious, fail to accommodate the growing number of supporters who come to cheer on our teams. And without adequate field lights, games and practices are cut short, limiting opportunities for students to develop their skills and passion for sports.

Investing in modernizing these facilities isn’t just a matter of aesthetics or convenience. It’s about ensuring the safety and well-being of our students and providing them with an environment where they can thrive and excel. A new track would mean a safer training ground for our young athletes. Upgraded bleachers would allow more families to come together to support their loved ones, fostering a stronger community spirit. Installing field lights would extend practice hours and allow for evening games, making full use of the school’s resources and giving athletes the time they need to hone their skills.

Other schools in our region, such as those in nearby Grand Rapids and Ionia, have benefited tremendously from similar improvements. Their successful track records and increased student engagement in athletics are a testament to the positive impact such upgrades can have on a school and its community.

We urge the Saranac School Board and local government officials to act in the interest of our students and community by allocating the necessary funds to renovate these key areas. By doing so, we will not only enhance safety and performance but also reinvigorate school pride and community involvement, ensuring Saranac High School remains a vibrant and nurturing part of our lives for generations to come.

Please, join us in this mission to secure a better future for Saranac High School and its athletes. Sign this petition to advocate for the renovation of the Saranac High School athletic field, including the track, bleachers, and field lights.