“It’s just such an accessible facility for somebody that has, potentially, a physical or mobility difference.”
John Koerner is Director of Young Adult Services for Ottawa Area Intermediate School District. He says the recently opened YAS facility in Jenison, once a former Rite Aid pharmacy, will serve as a centralized location for special needs students ages 18 to 26.
“We serve a ton of different students with a ton of different needs but, in general, helping them reach their highest level of independence for potentially eight years after high school is what we do.”
The district purchased the building in December 2024 for just over $1.6 million after using leased and district-owned facilities in Coopersville, Grand Haven, Holland and Hudsonville. The renovation includes a secure entrance, natural lighting and wider hallways and doorways for students in wheelchairs.
“We have some students that have some significant differences and that need spaces that work for them, and so more than anything, I hope that the building is inclusive and welcoming.”
The new location will serve around 75 students from Allendale, Coopersville, Hudsonville and Jenison.
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