District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- Nearly a decade in the making, the new Native American Education Program Library is now open, featuring more than 3,000 books in 16 different languages.

“Today we gather to honor history and to make history,” Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “This is a place where history is preserved and where young people can discover who they are as well as who they can become.”

The collection highlights the histories and cultures of tribes from across the country, including many that are often underrepresented in traditional textbooks.

“Inside this library you will find over 3,000 books. Alongside historical texts, you will find games, coloring books, and even Native American comic books,” explained Native American Education Program Coordinator Amy Westcott. “A selection like this does not exist anywhere in the state - it may be the only library of its kind anywhere within a public school.”

“Through the program, I brought in my cultural awareness and learned more about native traditions and practices,” said Willem Odykirk, a junior at City High Middle School.

The library is located inside Straight School, 850 Chatham St. NW. Scholars in the Native American Education Program will be able to check out books directly.

“This space creates an opportunity for all of our scholars to learn from voices that they don't often hear - voices that are authentic and diverse,” said Board of Education President José Rodriguez.

Teachers across the district will also have access to borrow materials to bring Native perspectives and learning into their classrooms.

“The ripple effect of this resource will be powerful,” Westcott said. “To everyone who worked for a decade to make this dream a reality, miigwech (thank you). Your commitment will shape generations of scholars.”

“Programs like this and spaces like this library help our children see themselves, their history, and their future,” said William Odykirk, Native American Education Program parent group chairperson.

GRPS is proud to offer the only Native American Education Program in West Michigan. The federally funded program serves more than 200 scholars representing 29 tribes across Turtle Island. The program provides academic support, advocacy, and opportunities to build cultural awareness while celebrating identity and heritage.

To learn more about the Native American Education Program, visit our website: https://grps.org/departments/naep/