Welcome to Gerald R. Ford Academic Center (PK-8)
As the principal of Gerald R. Ford Academic Center, I take pride in offering all scholars a college-focused culture where they will be taught to embrace the idea that college is important. Our Ford family will prepare your scholar for this goal by helping them build habits of excellent scholarship and leadership.
We welcome new families to visit us and take a tour to see us in action to determine if our school is the right fit for your family.
Gerald R. Ford Academic Center
School Hours
Breakfast 8:50 a.m.
Start Time 9:10 a.m.
Dismissal 4:08 p.m.
Half Day Dismissal 12:20 p.m.
School Transparency

We are a Community School!
Connect with your KSSN Coordinator
At the Gerald R. Ford Academic Center, we believe that an effective school does so much more than cover traditional curriculum. We teach our scholars to become initiators, seekers, and builders.
Our mission is to develop the intellectual habits of mind, character traits, and perseverance needed to achieve career and college readiness; to develop personal integrity and success; and to lead and serve the common good of our local and global communities.
Our vision at Gerald R. Ford Academic Center is to prepare all scholars to become independent learners who possess the desire, skills, and abilities needed for lifelong learning. At our school we ensure that all of our preschool through 8th grade scholars are actively involved in productive tasks that combine and extend their skills. Our school offers opportunities for scholars to participate in projects during Spanish class and show off their skills playing the violin in music class.
Our mission and vision are achieved by creating goals around a safe learning environment that are centered on scholars, directed by teachers, and supported by home and community.
Consider Gerald R. Ford Academic Center for your scholar if:
- You are seeking highly qualified and dedicated teachers who believe in your child's potential to learn and achieve.
- You want your child to learn in a college-going culture of high expectations.
- You want your child to learn in small classes that foster civic community leadership, develop character and integrity, and participate in service-learning projects.
- You value the stability and consistency of a preschool to grade 8 community.
- You want a Spanish language requirement.
- You are willing to sign a contract and fulfill parent/guardian expectations.
Gerald R. Ford Academic Center Photo Tour
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24 Aug
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First Day of 2026-2027 School YearDate: Aug 24Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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28 Aug
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Half Day of School for ScholarsDate: Aug 28Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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1 Sep
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First Day of Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP)Date: Sep 1Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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4 Septhru Sep 7
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No School | Labor DayDate: Sep 4 - Sep 7Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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19 Oct
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No School | No LOOP ProgrammingDate: Oct 19Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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2 Novthru Nov 3
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No School | No LOOP ProgrammingDate: Nov 2 - Nov 3Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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25 Novthru Nov 27
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No School | No LOOP Programming | Thanksgiving BreakDate: Nov 25 - Nov 27Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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16 Decthru Dec 18
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Half Days for Scholars | No LOOP ProgrammingDate: Dec 16 - Dec 18Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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Honoring 40 Years of Dedication to GRPS Scholars and Families June 11, 2026
Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate four employees who have reached the remarkable milestone of 40 years of service to our scholars, families, and community.
GRPS Milestone: UPREP Sophomore Becomes First To Receive State CTE Credential June 9, 2026
A first-year program at Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy (UPREP) is already making history.
The Grand Rapids Board of Education has approved moving forward with the sale of the former Alexander and Stocking school sites to developers planning projects that will bring housing, childcare and community services to our neighborhoods.






