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. 

Denishea Killingham
Principal

School Apps

Gerald R. Ford Academic Center

851 Madison Ave. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Phone: 616-819-2640
Denishea Killingham
Principal
Maria Hampton
Scholar Success Coordinator
Kim Ashton
Head Secretary
Lynnae Edmond
Kent School Services Network (KSSN) Coordinator

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. 

KSSN

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.
  • 31 Mar
    • Native American Education Program (NAEP) Library Ribbon-Cutting
      Date: Mar 31
      Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
      Location: 850 Chatham St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA
      Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
      5:30 pm: Program 5:45-7:00 pm: Open House Light refreshments provided.
  • 3 Apr
    thru Apr 10
  • 21 Apr
    • Citywide Art Show - Public Reception for GRPS Families & Friends
      Date: Apr 21
      Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
      Location: Western Michigan University, 200 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
      Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
    • Notice of Public Hearing - Native American Education Program
      Date: Apr 21
      Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
      Location: 850 Chatham St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA
      Calendar: GRPS District Calendar

      Native American Parents, Native American Students and the General Public are invited to share recommendations regarding programs and services to meet the special needs of Native American students in Grand Rapids Public Schools.

      The input will be used to develop the district’s application for federal funding for the 2026-2027 school year.

      The public hearing will be held from 5:30 p.m.—7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in the Straight School Building, 850 Chatham NW, Grand Rapids, MI  49504

      If you have any questions, please call 616-819-3318

       

  • 22 Apr
    • Citywide Art Show - Open To The Public
      Date: Apr 22
      Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
      Location: Western Michigan University, 200 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
      Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
  • 23 Apr
    • Citywide Art Show - Open To The Public
      Date: Apr 23
      Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
      Location: Western Michigan University, 200 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
      Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
  • 24 Apr
    • Citywide Art Show - Open To The Public
      Date: Apr 24
      Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
      Location: Western Michigan University, 200 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
      Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
  • 25 Apr
    • Citywide Art Show - Open To The Public
      Date: Apr 25
      Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
      Location: Western Michigan University, 200 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
      Calendar: GRPS District Calendar
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