GISD to host ribbon-cutting event for new pavilion, track, and basketball court

FLINT, Michigan — On Monday, July 29, the Genesee Intermediate School District (GISD) will be hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of a new outdoor pavilion, track, and basketball court located at the Transition Center. The event will be hosted at Genesee ISD Transition Center (3136 S Linden Road) at 10:30 a.m.

“Our new outdoor facilities represent so much more than just a place for recreation — they are a symbol of our unwavering commitment to empowering our students and fostering a true sense of community," stated Jan Cox, Principal of the GISD Transition Center.

The GISD ribbon-cutting ceremony is a free event open to the public. Attendees of the ribbon-cutting can expect to be among the first viewers of the all-new recreational amenities that are now available for use. This will include the walking track, the covered pavilion, and the basketball court.

Attendees will be able to see the high-quality, accessible design of the spaces and envision how they can be utilized for physical activity, social gatherings, and community events.

“We are excited to offer our adult learners new opportunities with the expanded outdoor learning and recreation area,” stated Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, Steve Polega. “Our students and staff enjoy our facilities to the fullest and having access to such a nice facility will continue to promote the health and wellness of our students.”  

A view of the new pavilion at the Genesee ISD Transition Center.The new outdoor pavilion, track, and basketball court were added at the Transition Center in response to feedback and requests from stakeholders during a listening tour with district superintendents. The key reasons stakeholders asked for these facilities were:
 

• Dedicated safe space for physical activity: Stakeholders expressed a need for a designated outdoor area where students could safely walk, run, and play sports. Many felt the existing facilities were insufficient or not well-suited for these activities.

 

• Promote health and wellness: The new facilities were intended to encourage physical exercise and active lifestyles among Transition Center participants. Stakeholders recognized the importance of providing opportunities for students to engage in regular physical activity.

 

• Create a sense of community: The outdoor pavilion and recreation areas were seen as a way to bring the Transition Center community together. Stakeholders hoped these spaces would facilitate social interaction, teamwork, and a stronger sense of community among students, families, and staff.

“The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Transition Center's new outdoor pavilion, walking track, and basketball court represents a wonderful opportunity for community members to learn more about this important educational facility and the services it provides,” said Cox.

She continued, “Beyond just celebrating the new recreational amenities, the event will serve as a chance for attendees to gain a deeper understanding of the Transition Center's mission and programming. Community members will be able to tour the grounds, see the facility firsthand, and get a sense of the valuable work being done to support the independence and life skills development of the adult students enrolled.”  

The new basketball court at the Genesee ISD Transition Center.
Both GISD and the Transition Center hold a core belief that all students can work and contribute meaningfully to their communities. To that end, the center has developed a network of over 40 job sites throughout the local area where students can gain real-world work experience and develop essential employment skills.

According to Cox, “The results of these efforts have been truly remarkable. Last year, the Transition Center's graduating class achieved a 52% employment rate - an astounding 31% above the state average for individuals with developmental disabilities. This is a testament to the center's commitment to empowering its students and preparing them for successful, independent lives.”

Strong relationships and partnerships are the foundation of GISD's services. It is through those relationships and partnerships that they can provide high-quality, innovative educational programs and support services to students, parents, and educators.

"At the Transition Center, we believe that all students can work and contribute meaningfully to society," said Cox. "These spaces will not only promote physical health and wellness but also provide opportunities for our students to develop critical life and employment skills that will set them up for success."

To learn more about Genesee Intermediate School District schools and educational programs, visit: geneseeisd.org