District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – WhenAlger Middle School scholars return this August, they’ll find something new waiting for them: a state-of-the-art classical piano lab, made possible through the generosity of the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation.

The idea for the lab came straight from the scholars themselves. Inspired by their classroom piano and eager to learn, they asked Music Teacher Julie Farrier how they could get more instruments.

“They are fascinated by the piano,” Farrier said. “I have a piano that I use. They always wanted to play it.”

Now, thanks to a $23,000 donation from the GRPS Foundation, Alger’s new piano lab includes 20 individual keyboards, giving scholars the hands-on experience they’ve been asking for.

Before the school year ended, scholars got a chance to test out the new equipment.

“It’s very cool,” said Ta’Miah, who will be entering 7th grade this fall.

“It means a lot to us, I just can’t explain it,” added fellow 7th-grader Belise.

The new piano lab will be integrated into Alger’s music appreciation class starting this fall.

“The piano really helps them hone that creativity and that curiosity in a really wonderful way,” Farrier said. “I'm just incredibly grateful for the years of education that will come from this great investment.”

Stephanie Andrews, President and CEO of the GRPS Foundation, says the project reflects the foundation’s long-standing commitment to the arts.

“We have been supporting art and music in the district for years and years,” Andrews said. “It aligns with what our community knows that our kids want and deserve.”

For scholars like Ta’Miah and Belise, the new lab opens up new possibilities.

“Now I can play a piano, learn an instrument, and it can help me in the future,” Ta’Miah said.

“It makes me feel like I'll be there one day—I’ll be like Miss Farrier and get to play a lot of songs,” said Belise.

You can help support opportunities like this for GRPS scholars by donating to the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation.