GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – Construction is officially underway on a new, state-of-the-art elementary school on the site of Aberdeen Academy. It will be the first new school constructed in northeast Grand Rapids in 60 years – and you have a chance to submit an idea for its name.
When doors open in 2027, scholars and staff from Aberdeen Academy and Palmer Elementary will come together in the new, unified learning environment. You can submit name ideas for the new school through Dec. 19, 2025, on the Reimagine GRPS Dashboard. A committee will review the submissions to narrow the list for a public vote before the Board of Education makes a final decision.
“This project is a shining example of the kind of district we want to be — one that listens, collaborates, and works hand-in-hand with our community to achieve our shared vision of becoming a world-class district,” Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby told attendees at the groundbreaking ceremony.
“This new $36 million school will be a state-of-the-art learning environment, designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and innovation,” said Executive Director of Facilities and Operations Alex Smart. “At the same time, it will honor the proud legacy of learning that has taken place in these two school communities.”
In alignment with community feedback, GRPS will preserve the unique architectural features of the current school, with plans to display them in and around the new building.
The project is possible thanks to the Reimagine GRPS with Us! bond passed by voters in 2023.
“Across GRPS, we’re renovating classrooms, building accessible playgrounds, and creating a more equitable school district where every scholar has the opportunity to thrive,” said Board of Education President Kymberlie Buczek. “At a time when national conversations too often focus on cutting education, Grand Rapids is sending a clear message: we are investing in our children, and we are investing in the future of our city.”
During the groundbreaking, messages were read from scholars who will attend the new school.
Amos Oltz, a 2nd-grader at Palmer, wrote: “I am very excited to have a brand-new building. I can’t wait to see what new play structures there will be on the playground. I like surprises and this will be a big one!”
Kuzco Campos, a 1st-grader at Palmer, wrote: “I am most excited to go to the new school because everything will be new. I can’t wait to do math in my new classroom, even if it will be hard.”
An Aberdeen scholar wrote: “I am looking forward to watching our school being built before my very eyes.” While another added: “I imagine the builders are going to listen to Wrecking Ball by Miley Cyrus as they tear down the old Aberdeen and then the wrecking ball hits the building!”
The school will be built directly behind the current Aberdeen Academy, at the corner of Aberdeen Street and Diamond Avenue NE, allowing scholars to continue learning without interruption during construction.
Designed to reflect the spirit of the Redhawk, the school’s mascot, the building will feature two classroom wings that extend from a central hub housing the gymnasium and cafeteria. Inside, warm, light wood tones will create a sense of stability and connection to nature, complemented by vibrant colors that spark creativity and energy.
GRPS is partnering with Wightman, Miller-Davis, and Plante Moran Realpoint on the project. You can follow updates on construction on the Reimagine GRPS Dashboard.
