Dear GRPS Staff,
As we wrap up Education Appreciation Week, I am excited to share some good news with our team. Thanks to new state funding through Section 27L(2), eligible employees will receive a one-time $800 stipend in their May 22 paycheck.
I want to thank our Business Office, Human Resources, and our union partners for working collaboratively to reach a fair agreement and help move this process forward efficiently.
Please note the following eligibility requirements:
- Employees must have been actively employed by GRPS on March 31, 2026, to qualify for the stipend.
- Employees who are less than full-time will receive a prorated amount based on their full-time equivalent (FTE) status as of March 31, 2026.
The stipend does not apply to:
- Employees who left the district before March 31, 2026
- Third-party contractor employees (Dean Transportation, EduStaff, Grand Rapids Building Services, WMJ, etc.)
- Athletic coaches
- Food service student workers
- No-benefit extra-duty positions
- Retirees
Please also note that this stipend is considered taxable income and will be subject to applicable federal, state, and local withholdings.
Thank you for the dedication, care, and commitment you show our scholars each and every day. We are proud to celebrate the incredible work happening across GRPS!
Sincerely,
Leadriane Roby, Ph.D.
Superintendent