District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- The Grand Rapids Board of Education has presented a wage proposal to the Grand Rapids Education Association (GREA) that includes substantial salary increases for members of the bargaining unit for the 2025-26 school year.

The proposal includes an additional $4 million investment for the 2025–26 school year, resulting in an average salary increase of 4.5% for GREA members.

"This proposal is a historic investment in our educators," said GRPS Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby. "We are committed to hiring and retaining the best educators. We believe this proposal is a critical step toward achieving that goal."

The ongoing negotiations come during an especially uncertain time for public education funding. The federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER) has expired. This summer, the U.S. Department of Education withheld promised funds, and schools across Michigan continue to wait on state lawmakers to reach a budget deal for the 2025-26 school year.

“During this time of funding uncertainty, we’ve made intentional reductions at the administrative level,” Dr. Roby said.

As negotiations with GREA continue, we are excited to welcome staff back to school this week in preparation for the first day of school on Monday, August 18.

The return to school marks another step forward in the momentum to Reimagine GRPS. Graduation rates are at record highs, and scholars will return to modernized schools featuring newly renovated learning spaces, new safe and secure entrances, a brand-new home for Southeast Career Pathways, new health clinic at Harrison Park Academy, and a major renovation of historic Houseman Field.

In the coming months, we will break ground on several projects that will have an impact on our scholars for generations to come, including a new elementary school, new environmental science academy, and new home for our Montessori program.

"Let’s make this year one of growth and celebration," Dr. Roby said. "Let’s do this together!"