Parents in Utica can expect temporary changes at Graebner Elementary in Sterling Heights during the 2025-26 school year and new career opportunities for high school students, according to Utica Community Schools.
The Utica Community Schools board met recently at the Joan C. Sergent Instructional Resource Center to share updates on ongoing construction projects, student programs and district plans that affect families.
What’s changing for Graebner families?
A major topic was the reconstruction of Graebner Elementary. Elementary families at Graebner and Rose Kidd can expect that during the 2025-26 school year, students will attend Rose Kidd Elementary while their home building is rebuilt, according to Utica Community Schools.
District leaders said the move is temporary and part of a larger effort to modernize aging buildings across the district. Parents raised questions about how construction could affect student safety, daily schedules and traffic around schools. Officials said they’re coordinating closely with contractors to reduce disruptions during the school day, according to board meeting materials.
Related story: DeKeyser Elementary reopens after makeover; Graebner renovation up next for Utica schools
How the sports medicine program benefits students
The district also highlighted the expansion of its Sports Medicine course within the Career and Technical Education program, according to a 2025 district news release.
High school students interested in health or sports careers can now take the class, which was previously one semester but is now a full-year course giving students more hands-on experience in athletic training.
Students are already working alongside Eisenhower High School athletes, learning injury prevention and rehab techniques during games and practices. Teacher Philip Crum said the course prepares students to earn a nationally recognized NASM Personal Trainer certification, helping them explore medical and sports careers early on.
Students say the training has given them confidence and a new appreciation for how proper taping and conditioning can prevent injuries. “When you tape, it’s supposed to pull your ankle to the outside instead of rolling it inside,” said student Macy Pfaff. “It prevents a lot of injuries.”
Related story: These are the 8 Utica Community Schools seniors named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists
How parents can stay informed
The district’s Empowered Strategic Plan continues to guide how academic programs and facility upgrades are prioritized, according to Utica Community Schools.
The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. at the Joan C. Sergent Instructional Resource Center, 14200 Canal Road, Sterling Heights. Meeting agendas and minutes are available on the district’s Board of Education page.
Parents with questions about construction timelines or new programs can reach out to their school’s main office or the district communications department.
Families affected by the Graebner rebuild will receive additional communication from the district before the end of the school year.
Plan It:
- Next board meeting: 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20 at Joan C. Sergent Instructional Resource Center, 14200 Canal Road, Sterling Heights
- Key topics: Graebner rebuild timeline, sports medicine expansion
- Parent action: Contact principal or district office for construction questions
- Resources: Board meeting schedule
- Who this affects: Graebner and Rose Kidd elementary families; Eisenhower High School students interested in sports medicine.
This story was based on Utica Community Schools board materials and district news releases published in 2025.
Updated October 2025
