GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – The Grand Rapids Board of Education approved the following statement during its regular board meeting on Feb. 10, 2025.
The safety and well-being of our scholars, teachers, staff, and community is the top priority for Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) and the Grand Rapids Board of Education.
Grand Rapids Public Schools follows federal law to protect scholar, staff, and family information, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Our district does not ask about the immigration status of scholars or their families, as doing so is against federal law.
Grand Rapids Public Schools only permits U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other immigration-related enforcement agencies with access to personnel, scholars, property, or school buses where required by law.
GRPS will uphold this commitment by establishing an advisory committee to recommend updates to policies and resources for marginalized groups; ensuring school staff receive proper training; consistently sharing resources, support, and updates with families, staff, and the community in their preferred language to educate and empower; and collaborating with internal and external partners to support affected scholars and their families.
Together, we will continue to build a caring and inclusive community where everyone feels valued and supported.
