Leonard Replaces Fay as Board Vice President, School Board Meets New SRO Officer

The Houghton Portage Township School district has replaced Rob Fay on the board of trustees, following his transition to the role of Athletic Director. With Fay’s departure from the board of education, trustees voted Scott Leonard to the position of Vice President, and adding Mike Salmi to the board.

“First I jsut want to say thank you, it’s been a privilege to serve with you on the board. But then also I’ve had a passion for high school sports for twenty five years. And it truly is a unique privilege to combine these two passions in the role you’ve entrusted me with.” – Rob Fay, Athletic Director, Houghton – Portage Township Schools

Board of Education Trustee Buck Foltz then nominated Mike Salmi to fill Fay vacant seat on the board. After taking time to thank both of the candidates.

“I thank both of you for coming tonight. I started on this board 25-27 years ago by being appointed. Much like you. And I appreciate the both of you being here. Without making a big deal out of this, or making it silly, I hope which ever one of you is elected, will help us serve and go on. And I hope the other person will stay active and interested. As it turns out this often an avenue of how people gain board membership.” – Buck Foltz, Trustee, Houghton Portage Township Schools

The district was also introduced to Houghton City Police Officer Kirk Mills. He will begin patrolling the district’s school buildings as the newest SRO officer in the Copper Country.

“I did some training through the National Association of School Resource Officers. So I want to implement their model. Which is, a police officer, mentor, and educator. Obviously its a new program, so there will be some things to work out. But I’m hoping it’s going to go great, and it goes beyond the three year grant.” – Kirk Mills, SRO Officer, Houghton – Portage Township Schools

In addition to typical district house keeping before the start of the year, Houghton portage schools approved two expenditures for projects. The first project will install additional cameras and card readers around buildings to increase security. The district approved just over 52,000 dollars for Accurate Networks. The second project will sped 37,000 dollars for design and renovation consultation with Mill Creek North. The district hopes to have the work begin after the school year, and ready in time for 2024-2025.