Grand Rapids Public Schools

Officials say it's a "once in a lifetime opportunity" to extend current rates and not raise taxes

After placing a ban on backpacks in May, the Grand Rapids Public School District announced Monday that backpacks will be allowed this upcoming school year.

The Grand Rapids Public School Board of Education voted unanimously to approve language for a $305 million no-tax-increase bond proposal, Monday. The measure will appear on the ballot this fall.

"As adults, it is our responsibility to ensure that those things that can harm them are not readily accessible," GRPS Superintendent, Dr. Leadriane Roby, said in a message to parents on Friday.

Ottawa Hills High School students, teachers, and community members voiced concerns this week over the removal of the school’s principal and dean of students.

Dean Transportation hosted a recruitment event on Thursday, aimed at filling 5-10 bus driver positions and 10-15 bus attendant roles.

The district’s projected scholar count used to budget revenue for the full year is13,957. That’s 40 students above its initial fall projection. Count day totals are still being tallied but they are expected to meet or exceed expectations.

A federal program that provided universal free lunches for students ended in June. Now Michigan officials say they’re working to keep kids from going hungry.

Davenport scholarship program supports Bachelor of Science in urban STEM education.

Stephanie Adams comes to GRPSF after serving as executive director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, since 2017.