GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- The Grand Rapids Board of Education approved names for four schools as part of the Reimagine GRPS initiative, strengthening school identities, creating greater unity within school communities, and honoring the rich histories that have shaped generations of scholars.
Aberdeen Elementary School
Our new northeast elementary school, scheduled to open in August 2027, will be named Aberdeen Elementary School. The school is being built behind the current Aberdeen Academy and will become the new home of Aberdeen Academy and Palmer Elementary. It will be the first new school built in northeast Grand Rapids in more than 60 years.
The name was selected through a community-led process that began in October, when 137 name ideas were submitted by our community. A group of Aberdeen Academy and Palmer Elementary families and staff reviewed those names and chose six finalists to move forward to a public vote. Aberdeen Elementary consistently rose to the top, ranking in the top two during both the name submission period and the public vote.
After discussion, the Board of Education determined it was important to honor the century-long legacy of learning associated with the Aberdeen name.
Construction continues to make significant progress. Community members can follow updates through the Reimagine Dashboard.
Alger Elementary School
When Brookside Elementary School relocates to the former Alger Middle School building for the 2027-28 school year, the school will be named Alger Elementary School.
The name reflects the building's long history as Alger Elementary School, which served elementary scholars for 80 years before becoming a middle school. It also strengthens the connection between the school and the Alger Heights neighborhood it has long served.
Renovations are underway to transform the building into a modern elementary learning environment, including two new playgrounds, additional restrooms, new gathering spaces, and improved air conditioning.
Innovation Central Middle School and Ottawa Hills Middle School
As part of the Reimagine GRPS initiative, middle school programs are being aligned more closely with their high school communities. Riverside Middle School joined the Innovation Central campus last year, and Alger Middle School will join the Ottawa Hills campus this fall.
Beginning this school year, the middle school programs will be known as Innovation Central Middle School and Ottawa Hills Middle School. These names create a seamless identity across grades 6-12 while honoring two of the district's most recognizable and historic school communities.
By sharing a common name, scholars and families will experience a stronger sense of connection as they move through their educational journey, while preserving the traditions and pride associated with each school community.
These naming decisions reflect the district's commitment to honoring the past while building for the future. As these transitions take place, they will help create stronger, more connected school communities that celebrate their history while preparing the next generation of scholars for success.
