GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – In 2022, Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) launched the Reimagine GRPS with Us! plan, a comprehensive initiative guiding the district’s long-term planning. As part of this effort, GRPS developed a framework for reviewing and repurposing vacant, closed, and underutilized facilities. The framework outlines district priorities, community engagement expectations, and criteria for long-range decision-making regarding GRPS facilities and properties.
In 2023, voters approved a $305 million bond to improve school facilities, enhance learning environments, and address excess building capacity across the district. Following the bond’s approval, the GRPS Board of Education voted to close 10 schools as part of the district’s long-term planning efforts, opening new opportunities for property reuse in the community. As part of this plan, the Board has decided to first move forward with Stocking Elementary and Alexander Elementary schools. Community meetings for neighbors and community stakeholders to provide feedback on potential future use opportunities are scheduled as follows:
- Alexander Elementary: Wednesday, January 14 at noon and 6 p.m. at the Rev. Lyman S. Parks Administration Building (1331 M.L.K. Jr St SE, Grand Rapids).
- Stocking Elementary: Thursday, January 15 at noon and 6 p.m. at the Stocking Elementary Gymnasium (863 7th St NW, Grand Rapids).
Light snacks and refreshments will be provided, along with interpretation services.
These meetings mark the beginning of GRPS’s process to explore the potential disposition of the closed Stocking Elementary and Alexander Elementary schools. Here is the anticipated timeline:
- Week of January 26: Request for Proposals Distributed
- February 4: Site Tours
- February 18: Deadline for Submittal of Respondent Questions
- March 4: Answers to Respondent Questions Due
- April 1: Proposal Submittal Date
- Before April 27: Shortlist Respondents with GRPS Ad Hoc Facilities Committee
- After April 27: Respondent Interviews (if needed)
- May 1: Property Under Contract