RSS Feed for Mobile App

SNN: Houseman Field upgrades to give athletes a 'top-notch facility'

The district is making progress on a multimillion dollar renovation project at one of its key athletic facilities. 

Prepare for fall sports: summer training at Ottawa Hills and Union

As summer approaches, both Ottawa Hills High School and Union High School are gearing up for an exciting season of athletic development and fun.

Three GR Montessori scholars sign to compete in college

Three seniors from Grand Rapids Montessori Middle High School have committed to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level.

BOE in 60: Recap of July Board of Education meeting
School: GRPS Topics: Board of Education

Watch BOE in 60, a one-minute recap of the July Grand Rapids Board of Education meeting.

Board of Education approves 2025-26 budget
School: GRPS Topics: Board of Education

The Grand Rapids Board of Education voted Monday to approve the 2025-26 budget. The 2025–26 budget totals $259.8 million, a $16.7 million decrease from the 2024–25 budget of $276.5 million.

GRPS announces budget reductions to protect classrooms and support staff compensation
School: GRPS Topics: Board of Education

In response to rising costs and the expiration of federal ESSER funding, GRPS is implementing a series of reductions in the 2025-26 budget proposal designed to ensure long-term financial stability while prioritizing classroom learning and staff compensation.

Innovation in motion: A summer of Reimagining at GRPS
School: GRPS Topics: Reimagine GRPS with Us!

Summer 2025 marks the busiest season yet for the Reimagine GRPS with Us! initiative, with transformative projects underway across the district to create more inspiring and safer spaces for scholars and staff. 

WOOD TV8: As summer begins, GRPS renovation projects 'kicking into full speed'
School: GRPS Topics: Reimagine GRPS with Us!

While they may be eager to begin summer vacation, administrators at GRPS are gearing up for a busy summer of their own — starting with renovations to the old Sigsbee Elementary building, which will soon become Southeast Career Pathways.

'Reimagine' Vlog: What a Year! Memories, Milestones and More
School: GRPS Topics: Reimagine GRPS with Us!

Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby shared the following message with GRPS Families & Staff on the final day of school.

New lawmaker renews Aberdeen scholars’ push for state insect

Fifth-graders at Aberdeen Academy have gained a powerful new ally in their campaign to name the stonefly as Michigan’s official state insect.

Stunning designs for new elementary school unveiled

GRPS, along with our partners Wightman and DLR Group, unveiled initial renderings for the new elementary school set to open in 2027 at the site of Aberdeen Academy.

Principal Profile: A heart for education, Shelley Miller’s journey to Aberdeen

The new leader at Aberdeen Academy, Principal Shelley Miller, is driven by a passion for children and a deep commitment to shaping engaged, community-minded scholars.

SNN: With a focus on artivism, teacher encourages self-expression

Meg Johnson, who uses they/them pronouns, recently completed their first year as a full-time art teacher, but they are no stranger to art and education.

GRPS Foundation donates piano lab to Alger Middle School

When Alger Middle School scholars return this August, they’ll find something new waiting for them: a state-of-the-art classical piano lab, made possible through the generosity of the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation.

Board of Education approves shift in facility plan timeline

The Grand Rapids Board of Education approved a shift in the Reimagine GRPS Facility Plan timeline on Monday night. Alger Middle School's relocation to Ottawa Hills High School will be delayed by one year to the 2026-27 school year. 

GRPS alum leading scholars at school he attended

At Blandford School, education is more than just academics -- it's about nurturing creativity, fostering passion, and cultivating a strong sense of community. That's a truth that Nick Maodush-Pitzer knows well. 

Blandford School 50th Anniversary on May 20

An open-house style gathering will include music, food, yard games and more, giving teachers and students from half a century of Blandford a chance to celebrate and reconnect.

Brookside teacher's unwavering commitment to community and scholar success

This week's GRPS Champion is Haiden Johnson, an elementary teacher at Brookside Elementary School. Known for her passion for teaching and love for her school, Johnson’s dedication shines through in every aspect of her work.

Brookside Interim Principal aims to help children ‘push boundaries’
A Maple Syrup Taste Test at Three GRPS Schools

A trio of teachers came together as the Sugarbush Team to give their scholars lessons in maple syrup, including what is being billed as the first-ever district taste-testing challenge.

Mrs. Garcia found her home at Buchanan while student-teaching
School: Buchanan Elementary GRPS

At Buchanan Elementary, third-grade teacher Sarah Garcia is making a profound impact on her scholars and school community.

Principal Profile: Mr. Thomasma loves ‘seeing students get it’
School: Buchanan Elementary GRPS

Buchanan Elementary School Principal Michael Thomasma was inspired to become an educator by his very first teacher: his mother.

VIDEO | Principal Profile: New leader at Buchanan changed career paths, fell in love with education
School: Buchanan Elementary GRPS
Illiana Garcia: ‘No other place I’d rather be than here at GRPS’
School: Burton Elementary GRPS Topics: Early Childhood

Illiana Garcia, a dedicated GSRP Associate Teacher at Burton Elementary School, finds joy in building meaningful connections with scholars and their families.

Meet the Jean Hamilton Cope Teachers of the Year
School: Burton Elementary GRPS North Park Early Childhood Center North Park Montessori Ottawa Hills High School Topics: Academics

Three GRPS educators have been named the Jean Hamilton Cope Teachers of the Year.

Gov. Whitmer visits GRPS to promote free pre-K for all
School: Burton Elementary GRPS Topics: Board of Education Early Childhood

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer visited preschool classrooms at Burton Elementary Monday to see the difference pre-K is having on scholars in Grand Rapids as they begin their academic journey.

Generations of success: Amanda Palmer’s GRPS commitment

Amanda Palmer teaches math at Burton Middle School, making an impact that has shaped her family for decades – and now generations of others.

Principal Profile: Burton Middle leader has lifelong passion for education

Burton Middle School's new principal, driven by a lifelong passion for education inspired by her parents, is ready to lead. 

VIDEO: A Snow Day's Beauty

The beauty of a quiet snow day at GRPS. Captured Jan. 10, 2024.

Principal Profile: ‘GRPS is where I was meant to be’

For Karla Finn, Grand Rapids Public Schools has always felt like home. 

13 On Your Side: Grand Rapids teacher's surprise honor celebrates 24 years of teaching excellence

Kevin Geary was born and raised in Grand Rapids and went into teaching like just about everyone else in his family. He’s been teaching now for 24 years.

Scholars join the Pride, color Lions logo for statewide contest

GRPS scholars are supporting the Detroit Lions playoff run by participating in a statewide drawing contest during art class.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

GRPS named 'Best High School Band' at Michigan's largest Memorial Day parade

A combined marching band made up of scholars from five Grand Rapids Public Schools high schools was awarded “Best High School Band” at the Mackinaw Memorial Day Parade, which is the largest Memorial Day parade in Michigan.

Creating a safe space: Brooke Nelson’s mission at Campus Elementary

At Campus Elementary, second-grade teacher Brooke Nelson embodies a spirit of collaboration, community, and care.

Students Get Free Books from New Nonprofit
Campus Elementary Principal Wins Davenport Alumni Award

Pastor’s daughter and former GRPS student persevered to earn two degrees and a lifetime of experience to share with her scholars.

Principal Profile: Inspiring the next generation of leaders

As the driving force behind both City High Middle and the Center for Economicology, Principal Charlie Vandervliet is dedicated to shaping the next generation of innovators and community leaders.

Making a difference: From volunteer to head secretary

For City High Middle School’s Head Secretary, her role is all about the relationships she builds and impact she hopes to leave.

VIDEO: A Snow Day's Beauty

The beauty of a quiet snow day at GRPS. Captured Jan. 10, 2024.

FOX 17: If You Give a Child a Book Campaign raises over $37,000 for Grand Rapids School

FOX 17’s If You Give a Child a Book Campaign raised $37,310 in 2024, allowing us to provide seven books to each student at both Kent Hills Elementary and Cesar E Chavez Elementary.

SNN: Former globe-trotting researcher approaches post with curiosity and humility

New Principal, Jessica Schwarz, who speaks fluent Spanish, is thrilled to be at Chavez; the school’s transitional bilingual model will allow her to focus on “ensuring our students have access to their full linguistic repertoire.” 

Principal Profile: From national park biologist to the classroom

Jessica Schwarz's path to leadership at Cesar E. Chavez Elementary School began amidst the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii. 

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

SNN Podcast: Multiracial Black Student Alliance celebrates ‘spreading culture and diversity’

Each week at City High Middle School this year, about two dozen high schoolers gathered to celebrate and learn about Black culture, from music and cooking to history and current issues.

Coit scholars’ art to be showcased at historic site in Salem, Massachusetts

Young artists from Coit Creative Arts Academy will soon have their work displayed at a nationally significant site more than 800 miles from home.

Empowering scholars: Lisa Herman’s approach to learning at Coit

For Lisa Herman, teaching at Coit Creative Arts Academy is about empowering scholars to take ownership of their learning.

Coit scholar performs with rapper T.I.

A scholar at Coit Creative Arts Academy was able to play on the big stage at DeVos Performance Hall with legendary rapper T.I. during the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Celebration of Soul concert.

WOOD TV8: Congress Elementary School unveils new mural

A Grand Rapids elementary school unveiled a new student-inspired mural Thursday morning.

WOOD TV8: Grand Rapids Rise players visit Congress Elementary for National Reading Month

March is National Reading Month, a time to reiterate the joys and benefits of picking up a good book! 

Congress teacher fell in love with school while student teaching

From the moment Allison Klinck stepped into Congress Elementary as a student teacher, she knew she had found her teaching home.

13 On Your Side: Grand Rapids math whiz gears up to represent Pistons worldwide

Kyler Jackson has reached the grandest stage in basketball, the NBA. But it's not because of his jump shot or ball-handling skills. It's because he's good at math!

Maria Mateo: A lifelong commitment to GRPS

Maria Mateo, the head secretary at Dickinson Elementary, is more than just the friendly face that greets families each day. She's a pillar of support for the entire school community.

'My everything': Dickinson leader follows in footsteps of her parents

You might say that education is in Cindy Rivera’s blood as both of her parents were educators too.

13 On Your Side: Teacher of the Week overwhelmed with emotion following surprise

She thought it was just their typical Monday morning assembly. Really, 13 ON YOUR SIDE was there to surprise her as our next Teacher of the Week—and she could not hold back the tears.

Scholars learn about waterways while paddling the Grand River

GRPS 8th graders had the opportunity to learn about the environment around us during the annual Canoemobile experience.

GRPS educators recognized in late leader's honor

Three Grand Rapids Public Schools educators were honored Sunday at the Olivia Margo Anderson Excellence in Education Scholarship Brunch.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

Senior Showcase: GRLC senior is already halfway to a college degree

Meet Kaylie Padron, a senior at the Grand Rapids Learning Center.

Roni Van Buren brings passion for community to Grand Rapids Montessori

At Grand Rapids Montessori Academy, Roni Van Buren helps to bridge the gap between past and present, scholar and educator, community and classroom.

GR Montessori awarded by EGLE

The 6-8th grade Environmental Service Award winner is Grand Rapids Montessori Academy’s E2 class for their "Taking Care of Our Place -- Our Campus, Our Community, Our Watershed" project.

Theron Brown: Setting a positive tone right from the start

The best part of Theron Brown’s day at Grand Rapids Montessori often comes before the first bell even rings.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

GRPS named 'Best High School Band' at Michigan's largest Memorial Day parade

A combined marching band made up of scholars from five Grand Rapids Public Schools high schools was awarded “Best High School Band” at the Mackinaw Memorial Day Parade, which is the largest Memorial Day parade in Michigan.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

From Museum High to XQ Headquarters: Emry Herring’s journey of lifelong learning

Emry Herring will spend the summer at the XQ Institute in Oakland, California, continuing a journey that started inside the classrooms of Grand Rapids Public Museum High School.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

UPREP 6th graders take first place at Esports state championship

Two Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy (UPREP) scholars were crowned state champions at the 2025 Michigan High School Esports Federation state competition.

Empowering scholars at Harrison Park

Courtney Glinka, a teacher at Harrison Park Academy, traces her passion for education and community service back to her childhood in Flint. 

MLive: 500 West Michigan students learning to become ‘habitat heroes’ at John Ball Zoo

Along with reading and history, hundreds of West Michigan students are spending their class time learning how to become "habitat heroes," staring with releasing Monarch butterflies. 

SNN: Harrison Park marks 100th year

During the 100th anniversary event, students and staff from the last century gathered to enjoy dinner, cupcakes and bury a time capsule in the courtyard that had been filled with photos, letters and drawings.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

SNN: ‘I can’t be stopped’: Grad says struggle made him stronger

In spite of everything Barrett has dealt with, he still chooses to focus on the positive.

Heart of the cafeteria: Deb Davis serves up smiles and support at Ken-O-Sha Park

At Ken-O-Sha Park Elementary School, one of the first friendly faces scholars encounter each morning is Deb Davis, the school’s Nutritional Specialist.

Principal Profile: Abbie Marr to lead united Ken-O-Sha and Sherwood Park

An exciting new chapter is beginning for two GRPS schools, and it will be guided by a leader who knows the community well.

Gov. Whitmer visits GRPS: ‘I love being around the kids’

Governor Gretchen Whitmer stopped by to visit scholars at Ken-O-Sha Park Elementary School Monday afternoon.

Kent Hills teacher finds joy in community

For Maura Jones, a third-grade teacher at Kent Hills Elementary School, teaching at GRPS is all about consistency, relationships, and diversity.

FOX 17: If You Give a Child a Book Campaign raises over $37,000 for Grand Rapids School

FOX 17’s If You Give a Child a Book Campaign raised $37,310 in 2024, allowing us to provide seven books to each student at both Kent Hills Elementary and Cesar E Chavez Elementary.

Principal Profile: Educator with deep roots dedicated to scholar growth

The leader of Kent Hills Elementary School, Chad Nielsen, brings a deeply rooted passion for education that stems from his upbringing in a family of public school employees. 

Teacher at MLK Leadership Academy loves ‘lightbulb’ moments

For Carmen Dunbar, teaching is more than a profession - it’s a calling.

GRPS educators recognized in late leader's honor

Three Grand Rapids Public Schools educators were honored Sunday at the Olivia Margo Anderson Excellence in Education Scholarship Brunch.

GRPS Middle Schools Part of Hands-On Pilot Program

Keli Christopher went to GRPS schools from kindergarten through 12th grade and became a trailblazing woman of color on her way to a doctoral degree in Agricultural Engineering. Now, she’s giving back to the school system she said gave her so much.

"We love each other like family": Mulick Park's secretary on unity and joy

Sandra (Sandy) Edwards, secretary at Mulick Park Elementary School, is serving the same community she’s called home her entire life.

Principal Profile: At Mulick Park, ‘we’re a family’

Grand Rapids Public Schools has been a significant part of Mulick Park Elementary School Principal Thomas Standifer’s life.

Mulick Park scholars get outside for ‘Move More Month’

Mulick Park Elementary transformed Friday into the heart of “Move More Month” with the American Heart Association of West Michigan.

"We love each other like family": Mulick Park's secretary on unity and joy

Sandra (Sandy) Edwards, secretary at Mulick Park Elementary School, is serving the same community she’s called home her entire life.

Principal Profile: At Mulick Park, ‘we’re a family’

Grand Rapids Public Schools has been a significant part of Mulick Park Elementary School Principal Thomas Standifer’s life.

Mulick Park scholars get outside for ‘Move More Month’

Mulick Park Elementary transformed Friday into the heart of “Move More Month” with the American Heart Association of West Michigan.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

GRPS named 'Best High School Band' at Michigan's largest Memorial Day parade

A combined marching band made up of scholars from five Grand Rapids Public Schools high schools was awarded “Best High School Band” at the Mackinaw Memorial Day Parade, which is the largest Memorial Day parade in Michigan.

Stunning designs for new elementary school unveiled

GRPS, along with our partners Wightman and DLR Group, unveiled initial renderings for the new elementary school set to open in 2027 at the site of Aberdeen Academy.

Community meeting for new northeast elementary school: April 15

GRPS will unveil initial renderings of the new elementary school, set to open in 2027 at the Aberdeen Academy site, during a community meeting in April. 

Palmer Elementary Teacher Finds Joy in the "Lightbulb Moments" of First Grade

For Brittany Speck, a first-grade teacher at Palmer Elementary, the passion for teaching goes beyond the classroom—it’s the small, everyday moments that make her work so fulfilling.

Beyond first aid: Quaonna Draper’s impact at Ridgemoor Park Montessori

For Quaonna Draper, serving as a Health Aide at Ridgemoor Park Montessori is about more than just tending to injuries - it’s about creating a safe, supportive space where scholars feel cared for every day.

Scholars travel to D.C. to witness American history, politics

More than 500 middle and high school scholars traveled to Washington D.C. for one week to visit museums and monuments, and meet Michigan Representatives.

18th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Social Justice Legacy Contest Winner Announced

Congratulations to Ca'Niyah Sutton (Westwood Middle School), Remington Davis (Center for Economicology) and Jeckia Brooks (Riverside Middle School)!

WOOD TV 8 Names Riverside Middle School Scholar as 'Student of the Week'

Riverside Middle School scholar Aman Negash steps into the spotlight as TV 8's Student of the Week

From parent to Shawmut Hills Secretary

At Shawmut Hills Academy, no two days are ever the same for school secretary Lisa Stewart - and that’s exactly what she loves about her job. 

Three GRPS scholars honored in contest

Three GRPS scholars were honored by the West Michigan Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) in the Sergeant Moses Adams Brochure Contest.

High-schoolers host first-graders for memorable holiday event

What started as a fun idea in 2016 has now become an annual tradition and favorite moment of the holiday season.

Principal Profile: Abbie Marr to lead united Ken-O-Sha and Sherwood Park

An exciting new chapter is beginning for two GRPS schools, and it will be guided by a leader who knows the community well.

Principal Profile: Tamika Henry is creating an oasis for scholars and staff

Tamika Henry didn’t always envision a career in education, but she soon discovered it was where she truly belonged.

Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy Achieves Distinguished Designation

PK-6 theme school becomes one of only two schools in Kent County to earn International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme designation

Learning at the lakeshore: beach trip is the first for some fifth-graders

There’s no better way to learn about the environment than to experience it up close, and for some Sibley Elementary fifth-graders, that meant seeing Lake Michigan for the very first time.

Principal Profile: Ms. Charles-Maher says ‘We really are Sibley Familia’

Sibley Elementary School Principal Roselyn Charles-Maher is a lifelong educator who knew from a young age exactly what she wanted to do.

High-schoolers host first-graders for memorable holiday event

What started as a fun idea in 2016 has now become an annual tradition and favorite moment of the holiday season.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Guiding success: Lisa Cook’s impact at Southeast Career Pathways

As Head Counselor at Southeast Career Pathways, Lisa Cook is dedicated to guiding scholars toward graduation and renewed confidence in their academic journey.

Principal Profile: Troy Wilbon helps scholars shape their futures by empowering pathways

Troy Wilbon, Principal at Southeast Career Pathways, has dedicated his life to helping young people succeed both in and out of the classroom.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Southwest Middle High grad pulls triple duty during ceremony

Graduation night is a time to honor hard work, perseverance, and achievement.

Maria Martin carries on her father’s legacy in the classroom

As a first-grade teacher at Southwest Elementary School Academia Bilingüe, Maria Martin is proudly continuing a family tradition of education.

Class of 2025 graduation ceremonies in pictures

The Grand Rapids Public Schools community proudly celebrates the Class of 2025!

Celebrating the Class of 2025

Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate the Class of 2025, with approximately 750 graduates receiving their diplomas and taking their next steps toward bright and promising futures.

Union girls soccer wins tournament, sophomore named MVP

The Union High School varsity girls soccer team won the Oakridge Invitational tournament on Saturday, with wins over Tri-County, West Michigan Aviation, and Oakridge.

Westwood Middle School Chefs Bring Smiles and Care to the Cafeteria

Two dedicated chefs at Westwood Middle School, Carolyn Carter and Robin Bieschke, are making a meaningful impact in the lives of scholars every day - not just through the meals they serve, but through the connections they build.

Building Community: Deb Lubbers’ Mission at Westwood Middle School

Every day, Deb Lubbers steps into Westwood Middle School with a clear purpose: to inspire and guide her students toward success. 

Principal Profile: Erica Dams fostering strong relationships & scholar success

Westwood Middle School’s Interim Principal is a GRPS veteran with a focus on building relationships with scholars, families, staff, and community.

Zoo School teacher praises ‘unique learning experiences’ for scholars

It’s an experience that is uniquely GRPS: scholars going to school every day in a zoo. For one of the school’s teachers, it’s why he loves his job.

Zoo School to return to normal operations on Thursday

Zoo School will return to holding classes as usual on Thursday, January 9.

Zoo School Anniversary Party on October 14

As Zoo School turns 50, volunteers are planning an open-house style event with a taco dinner, music, games and more to highlight the commitment to excellence in education offered by Grand Rapids Public Schools.