Hello, welcome to our recently renovated athletic stadium turf. I am Rob Ridgeway, and I have the privilege of being the superintendent of Harper Creek Community Schools. I think the field turf project turned out great, and I am proud to be part of a district with the best athletic facilities in our area. Many have asked questions about the turf –how much it costs, how long it lasts, and why now.
First and foremost, the money for the turf came from revenue received from the Firekeeper’s Casino Local Revenue Sharing Board in which 2% of all electronic gaming is given to public entities connected to the casino and reservation. Harper Creek’s school board has saved money from this revenue over the past ten years to prepare for this project. The field turf replacement costs approximately $500,000. The Board of Education made a promise in 2008, when the turf was first installed, that they would not ask taxpayers to pay for this project, and our current Board of Education kept that promise through sound and sensible budgeting. Promise Made/Promise Kept.
The lifespan of field turf is typically ten years. The original turf, installed in 2008, lasted for sixteen years and was at the end of its lifecycle. We hope to get sixteen years of use out of the newly installed turf, which has an eight-year warranty. Having field turf allows athletic teams to play in all weather conditions and allows them to practice daily on the turf. Game fields that are grass only allow for limited use and must be maintained, including mowing, watering, fertilizing, and lining. With field turf, all of our outdoor sports can benefit from good field conditions for both practice and
games, even in the worst weather, all while allowing our community access for personal wellness.
Finally, I want to thank Firekeepers Casino and Hotel, the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, our school board, and the community for their continued support. Harper Creek Community Schools will remain strong now and into the future as we Educate, Empower, and Equip Students for Life. I can't wait to see all of you this fall. Go Beavers!
Thank you to Andy Sutton, HC Class of 2003 for the photos.
Harper's Unsung Hero - Matt Bilger December 3, 2025
Matt grew up in the Bilger family, the second of four children. He was different than his siblings, the first in his family to participate in athletics. Through these differences, Matt has been able to find his own niche as a teacher and a coach. He has developed a passion for his career, making an impact on current and former Harper Creek students.
Harper Creek Students to Experience Hispanic Flamenco Ballet Thanks to Local Grant Support December 1, 2025
Harper Creek Students to Experience Live Hispanic Flamenco Ballet This Spring
More than 700 Harper Creek students will immerse themselves in the vibrant sights and sounds of Hispanic culture during the 3rd Annual Spanish Cultural Awareness Project on March 19, 2026. Held at the W.K. Kellogg Auditorium, the event features a live performance by the Hispanic Flamenco Ballet and offers tailored experiences for elementary, middle, and high school students.
Made possible through generous grants from the Binda Foundation and the Miller Foundation, the program blends music, dance, and cultural traditions with classroom learning to deepen language skills and global awareness.
We Want Your Input on the Proposed Zero-Tax-Increase Bond November 19, 2025
Harper Creek Community Schools is seeking community feedback on a proposed zero-tax-increase bond that aims to support essential school improvements.
