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City High Middle senior signs to run at Wayne State

City High Middle School senior Reese Hansen will continue running at the next level, signing with Wayne State University in Detroit to compete in both cross country and track.

CA Frost scholar signs to play volleyball at Kalamazoo College

CA Frost Environmental Science Middle High School senior Quaneice Dillard is taking her volleyball talents to the collegiate level. 

Senior shatters Redhawks diving record

A school record that stood for nearly four decades has fallen.

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

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

You’re invited to Coffee with the Board
School: GRPS Topics: Board of Education

The Grand Rapids Board of Education has announced three more Coffee with the Board events.

Board Trustee Arick Davis honored by WMCAT
School: GRPS Topics: Board of Education

Grand Rapids Board of Education Trustee Arick Davis has been honored with the West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology (WMCAT) Award for Inspiration.

'Reimagine' Vlog: Future school meeting, scholar advocacy, and energy savings
School: GRPS Topics: Reimagine GRPS with Us!

 In the latest ‘Reimagine’ Vlog, Grand Rapids Public School Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby highlights a community meeting for a new school, scholars talking with state lawmakers about key issues, and how GRPS is saving energy and money.

Stunning designs for new elementary school unveiled
School: Aberdeen Academy GRPS Palmer Elementary Topics: Reimagine GRPS with Us!

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.

Innovation Central renovation honored with Historic Preservation Award
School: GRPS Innovation Central High School Topics: Facilities & Operations Reimagine GRPS with Us!

The largest renovation project in Grand Rapids Public Schools history has earned a prestigious recognition. 

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.

Aberdeen teacher celebrating 38 years at GRPS

For nearly four decades, Mary Kuiper has been a dedicated educator at Grand Rapids Public Schools.

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 brings stability and joy to Alger Middle School

Erin Veldman has dedicated her career to creating a safe and supportive environment for scholars.

Safety bash includes fresh cuts, backpacks & gun locks

Hundreds of families attended Save A Life A Day Outreach’s Back to School Safety Bash August 16 at Alger Middle School.

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.

CA Frost scholar signs to play volleyball at Kalamazoo College

CA Frost Environmental Science Middle High School senior Quaneice Dillard is taking her volleyball talents to the collegiate level. 

Wrestler earns All-State honors at state tournament

Sam Kik cemented his place in school history with an incredible performance at the Division 1 State Wrestling Tournament held at Ford Field. Competing in the 106-pound weight class, Kik battled his way to a fifth-place finish, earning All-State honors and securing his 100th career victory along the way.

Two Union football players turning college football dreams into reality

Keith Griffin and Jaheim Jones, both seniors at CA Frost Environmental Science Middle High School, have signed letters of intent to play college football next fall. 

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. 

City High Middle artists sweep Congressional Art Competition

City High Middle School scholars claimed the top three honors in U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten’s Congressional Art Competition, with the winning piece earning a prestigious spot at the U.S. Capitol.

13 On Your Side: Grand Rapids teacher in the running for 'America's Favorite Teacher' and $25K

Grand Rapids teacher Aaron Fillenworth is in the running to become America's Favorite Teacher.

City High Middle senior signs to run at Wayne State

City High Middle School senior Reese Hansen will continue running at the next level, signing with Wayne State University in Detroit to compete in both cross country and track.

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.

Coit scholars talk with Rev. Al Sharpton

Scholars at Coit Creative Arts Academy had the opportunity to engage in a virtual conversation with civil rights leader and social justice advocate Rev. Al Sharpton.

WOOD TV: Grammy-nominated teacher passes on love for music to GRPS students

It’s not every day students in elementary school get to work with a Grammy-nominated music engineer who plays ten instruments and loves teaching — unless they attend Grand Rapids Public School Coit Creative Arts Academy.

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.

Principal Profile: New Congress leader dedicated to building success

Jonathan Harper, the new principal of Congress Elementary School, embodies a commitment to education that runs deep in his roots.

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.

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.

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.

Three decades of dedication: Maria Cerda’s legacy in GRPS

With nearly three decades of service in Grand Rapids Public Schools, Maria Cerda’s contributions have left an indelible mark on countless scholars, families, and staff. Cerda is currently the Head Secretary at Grand Rapids Learning Center (GRLC).

Grand Rapids Learning Center: A Gateway to Success

It's a one-of-kind learning experience - and for alumni like Jaylen Finn, the Grand Rapids Learning Center wasn't just a place to earn a high school diploma, it was a launchpad for discovering his passions and exploring possibilities for his future.

Principal Profile: Learning Center leader is 'living a dream'

Rodney Brown has spent the majority of his life at Grand Rapids Public Schools, first as a scholar and now as principal of the only high school on a college campus in West Michigan - Grand Rapids Learning Center at Grand Rapids Community College.

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.

MLive: Scholars raising salmon to be released in Grand River

With fingers pressed almost to the glass but not touching, as the sign on the fish tank reminds, Grand Rapids Montessori students Elsye Cash, 12, and Penny Verkaik, 12, point out several Chinook salmon they’ve named.

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.

HBCU Power Panel inspires scholars

Scholars from Innovation Central High School and Grand Rapids Montessori Middle High School attended an event to hear from local leaders about the impact of attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). 

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.

Gone Boarding: Teaching scholars to shape boards and build character

In a classroom filled with sawdust, band saws, and vibrant energy, something powerful is happening. 

SNN: Student club to hand out food, hygiene items, more

A student-led club at Grand Rapids Public Museum High School is turning helping the less fortunate into an ever-expanding mission. 

Principal Profile: Leading Museum Middle with real-world learning focus

At Museum Middle School, Principal Kim Rowland is championing a unique educational experience that blends traditional classroom learning with hands-on exploration.

Senior Showcase: UPREP shaped what’s next

Meet Jonathan Malone, a senior at Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy (UPREP).

Ottawa Hills football star signs with MSU

Rashawn Rogers has decided to continue his football career on the banks of the Red Cedar by signing to play at Michigan State University.

GRPS scholars honored in Rosa Parks Essay Contest

Four GRPS scholars were awarded prizes by the Rosa Parks Education Committee in the Rosa Parks Essay Contest.

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.

HBCU Power Panel inspires scholars

Scholars from Innovation Central High School and Grand Rapids Montessori Middle High School attended an event to hear from local leaders about the impact of attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). 

Innovation Central renovation honored with Historic Preservation Award

The largest renovation project in Grand Rapids Public Schools history has earned a prestigious recognition. 

Senior Showcase: Building relationships during and after school

Meet Demario Brown, a senior at Innovation Central High School.

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.

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.

Alger Middle School celebrates Reading Month with Mulick Park kindergarteners

The Alger Middle School National Honor Society scholars celebrated Reading Month with the young children at Mulick Park Elementary School.

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.

Alger Middle School celebrates Reading Month with Mulick Park kindergarteners

The Alger Middle School National Honor Society scholars celebrated Reading Month with the young children at Mulick Park Elementary School.

13 On Your Side: Spring break esports lab helps Ottawa Hills scholars learn from industry professionals

On Friday night, scholars got a chance to play Fortnite, and hear from officials at the very company that makes that hit video game.

TeachMichigan: From the Back of the Classroom to Leading it: Meet Whitley Morse

Whitley Morse, now a social studies teacher at Ottawa Hills High School in Grand Rapids, has spent 13 years shaping lives and building futures. 

Ottawa Hills teacher & son create art live at WOOD TV8

Artist Stephen Smith and his son paid a visit to the WOOD TV8 studio Thursday afternoon, creating a piece of art live. The piece, which Smith described as an artistic version of brain dumping, incorporates themes like love, joy, peace and patience.

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

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.

LETRS reading program is game-changing at Sibley Elementary

LETRS is a professional learning course teachers across the country are being trained in that incorporates the science of reading philosophy.

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.

Designs unveiled for new home of Southeast Career Pathways

Pure Architects shared design plans for the new home of Southeast Career Pathways during an informational meeting open to the community at Sigsbee School on July 18.

Scholars honor the legacy of Cesar E. Chavez

Scholars from Southwest Middle High School and Union High School took part in a march to honor what would have been the 98th birthday of labor leader and civil rights activist Cesar E. Chavez.

Senior Showcase: A personalized high school experience

Meet Richard Angarita, a senior at Southwest Middle High - Academia Bilingüe.

Principal Profile: ‘I always wanted to go back to my alma mater’

For Julian Ramirez-Torres, Grand Rapids Public Schools didn’t just provide an education - it gave him a home.

The curtain rises again: Union High brings back musical theater

For the first time in more than a decade, the curtain will rise this weekend as Union High School brings back its long-awaited musical production.

Senior shatters Redhawks diving record

A school record that stood for nearly four decades has fallen.

Wrestler earns All-State honors at state tournament

Sam Kik cemented his place in school history with an incredible performance at the Division 1 State Wrestling Tournament held at Ford Field. Competing in the 106-pound weight class, Kik battled his way to a fifth-place finish, earning All-State honors and securing his 100th career victory along the way.

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.