--- title: "Grand Rapids Education HERE" url: https://www.heregrandrapids.com/education-grand-rapids-mi/ date: 2026-06-22T16:26:27-04:00 modified: 2026-06-22T16:26:27-04:00 author: "" site: "HERE Grand Rapids" attribution: "HERE Grand Rapids" --- # Grand Rapids Education HERE *Source: [HERE Grand Rapids](https://www.heregrandrapids.com/education-grand-rapids-mi/) — June 22, 2026 by * HERE Grand Rapids — Education Coverage # Grand Rapids Schools News Schools, Colleges, Careers & Education News — Kent HERE Education covers every school, deadline, and funding opportunity in Kent. From K-12 to Grand Valley State University — use our Right School Right Neighborhood quiz, search the full directory, and track what matters. [School Finder Quiz](#school-matcher) [Search Schools](#school-directory) [Education News](#edu-news) [Deadlines](#edu-deadlines) [Featured Programs](#featured-programs) [Decision Maker](#decision-maker) [Online Education](#online-education) Presenting Sponsor [Your Business Here — Reach Every Family in Kent](/advertise/) Updated weekly  ·  Grand Rapids, MI  ·  12 High Schools  ·  6 Colleges Kent is home to 6 school districts serving students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. High schools serving Grand Rapids families include **Ottawa Hills High School** (Bengals), **Union High School** (Red Hawks), **Innovation Central High School** (Phoenix), **City High-Middle School** (Ravens), **Forest Hills Central High School** (Rangers), and 7 more. HEREGrandRapids covers every school board meeting, budget cycle, and academic milestone across Kent. Grand Rapids's higher-education landscape includes 6 institutions: **Grand Valley State University**; **Calvin University**; **Aquinas College**; **Cornerstone University**; **Grand Rapids Community College**; **Davenport University**. HEREGrandRapids covers admissions deadlines, scholarship windows, athletic schedules, and campus announcements for each institution. MI's public-school governance flows through the **MI Department of Education**, which administers **MI READY** assessments each spring and enforces the **Read to Succeed Act** — requiring third-grade reading proficiency before promotion. The **Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA)** governs interscholastic athletics across the state. Teacher pay begins at the state minimum and is locally supplemented — making salaries a perennial flashpoint at budget hearings. HEREGrandRapids tracks school-board meetings across Kent — agendas, votes, and budget summaries published before local papers. Our reporters cover graduation rates and **MI READY** scores; teacher-contract negotiations; school resource officers; SAT and ACT data; Title I funding allocations; building bond referenda; and the Friday Night Football calendar. From dual-enrollment windows at local technical colleges to faculty announcements at area universities — if it happens in a Grand Rapids classroom or on a Kent campus, it is HERE. DEADLINES 7dSC Need-Based Grants — Apply Now•PassedFAFSA Priority Deadline•PassedSC Teaching Fellows Application•PassedSC School of Math & Science — Applications•PassedMI READY Testing Window•39dGrand Valley State University Fall 2026 Applications Open•39dCalvin University Fall 2026 Applications Open•39dAquinas College Fall 2026 Applications Open•PassedGrand Rapids Public Schools Open Enrollment•7dSC Need-Based Grants — Apply Now•PassedFAFSA Priority Deadline•PassedSC Teaching Fellows Application•PassedSC School of Math & Science — Applications•PassedMI READY Testing Window•39dGrand Valley State University Fall 2026 Applications Open•39dCalvin University Fall 2026 Applications Open•39dAquinas College Fall 2026 Applications Open•PassedGrand Rapids Public Schools Open Enrollment• Latest Coverage ## Education News 🏫 School Board ### Kent school board budget hearing scheduled for March Community members invited to weigh in on the proposed 2026–27 budget for Kent schools. March 10, 2026 [Read More →](/category/education-2/) 🏫 Local Schools ### Ottawa Hills High School renovation update Work continues on facilities improvements at Ottawa Hills High School in Kent. March 8, 2026 [Read More →](/category/education-2/) 💻 College ### Grand Valley State University launches new workforce certificate program this fall Grand Valley State University's new certificate program is designed for working adults in Grand Rapids. March 6, 2026 [Read More →](/category/education-2/) 🏫 Higher Ed ### Grand Valley State University receives STEM endowment gift A donation will expand science and engineering programs at Grand Valley State University. March 5, 2026 [Read More →](/category/education-2/) 🌸 Scholarships ### SC WINS scholarship expansion benefits Grand Rapids students The SC WINS workforce scholarship is expanding eligibility — hundreds of Kent residents may now qualify. March 3, 2026 [Read More →](/category/education-2/) 🏫 School Board ### Kent school rezoning proposal under review A proposed boundary change could shift student attendance zones ahead of the 2026–27 school year in Kent. March 1, 2026 [Read More →](/category/education-2/) **Submit an Education Tip** Know something we should cover? Board meeting, school news, or funding opportunity? Submit Tip Section Sponsor [Sponsor Education News — Reach Kent Families](/advertise/) Interactive Tool ## Right School. Right Neighborhood. HERE! Tell us what matters to your family — schools, community feel, budget — and we'll match you to the right Grand Rapids neighborhood. Step 1 of 6 ### What grades are you shopping schools for? PreK / KindergartenAges 4–6 Elementary (1–5)Ages 6–11 Middle School (6–8)Ages 11–14 High School (9–12)Ages 14–18 Not school age yet — planning aheadFuture family planning Continue → Step 2 of 6 ### What matters most to you in a school? (Select up to 3) Academic PerformanceTest scores, college prep AthleticsCompetitive sports, facilities Arts & ActivitiesMusic, theater, clubs Small Class SizeIndividual attention Diversity & InclusionInclusive community STEM ProgramsScience, tech, engineering, math AP / Honors / IBAdvanced coursework Safety & School CulturePositive environment ← Back Continue → Step 3 of 6 ### What kind of community feels like home? Small & Tight-KnitClose community, know your neighbors — Grand Rapids area Suburban & GrowingNew development, good schools — Kent suburbs Urban & ConnectedGrand Rapids — walkable, arts, dining Rural & SpaciousKent — land, quiet, small-town feel ← Back Continue → Step 4 of 6 ### Which part of Kent? Heritage Hill Eastown East Hills Creston Alger Heights John Ball Park Belknap Lookout Open — show me what fits anywhereNo location preference ← Back Continue → Step 5 of 6 ### Tell us about your move Moving Timeline Yes — Actively Looking Yes — Within 6 Months Planning Ahead 1+ Year Just Researching Budget Range Under $200K $200K–$300K $300K–$400K $400K–$600K $600K+ Home to Sell? Yes No (First Home or Renting) Maybe ← Back Continue → Step 6 of 6 ### Where should we send your neighborhood match? We'll email your personalized school & neighborhood report — free, no obligation. Get My Match → No spam. We match you with a local real estate expert only if you want us to. ← Back Your Match ## Your Grand Rapids Neighborhood Match Heritage Hill Kent Grand Rapids Public Schools — Ottawa Hills High School Grand Rapids offers a range of neighborhoods that match different school and lifestyle priorities. Connect with a local real estate expert to explore what fits your family best. Contact a local agent for current pricing [Connect with a Local Real Estate Partner](/contact/) Start Over Sponsor the School Finder [Reach every relocating family in Kent — Become a Sponsor](/advertise/) Full Directory ## Grand Rapids School Directory, Report Cards, and School News 12+ High Schools 6 Colleges & Universities 1 Technical Programs 6 School Districts [All Schools](https://www.heregrandrapids.com/schools-grand-rapids-mi/?school_type=all) [High Schools](https://www.heregrandrapids.com/schools-grand-rapids-mi/?school_type=high) [Middle Schools](https://www.heregrandrapids.com/schools-grand-rapids-mi/?school_type=middle) [Elementary](https://www.heregrandrapids.com/schools-grand-rapids-mi/?school_type=elementary) [Colleges](https://www.heregrandrapids.com/schools-grand-rapids-mi/?school_type=college) [Technical Programs](https://www.heregrandrapids.com/schools-grand-rapids-mi/?school_type=technical) ### Kent High Schools Grand Rapids Public Schools ### Grand Rapids Public Schools **High Schools:** Ottawa Hills High School (Bengals), Union High School (Red Hawks), Innovation Central High School (Phoenix), City High-Middle School (Ravens) **County:** Kent Forest Hills Public Schools ### Forest Hills Public Schools **High Schools:** Forest Hills Central High School (Rangers), Forest Hills Northern High School (Huskies), Forest Hills Eastern High School (Hawks) **County:** Kent Kentwood Public Schools ### Kentwood Public Schools **High Schools:** East Kentwood High School (Falcons) **County:** Kent Diocese of Grand Rapids (Private) ### Diocese of Grand Rapids (Private) **High Schools:** Catholic Central High School (Cougars), West Catholic High School (Falcons) **County:** Kent East Grand Rapids Public Schools ### East Grand Rapids Public Schools **High Schools:** East Grand Rapids High School (Pioneers) **County:** Kent Northview Public Schools ### Northview Public Schools **High Schools:** Northview High School (Wildcats) **County:** Kent Statewide Magnet ### MI Governor's School for Science & Mathematics **Area:** Hartsville, MI — statewide enrollment **Type:** Residential magnet high school for MI students Applications open annually [School Website →](https://www.scgssm.org) Directory Sponsor [Featured Listing — Get Your School or Program Seen by Every Grand Rapids Family](/advertise/) Public Accountability Data ## School Report Cards Official annual ratings from the **South Carolina Education Oversight Committee** and the **South Carolina Department of Education**. Showing every rated public school in Kent County for the 2024-25 school year. Click any school to view the full report card on the official SC Report Cards site (graduation rate, academic progress, school climate, financial data). **Report card data loading.** Statewide SC public school ratings are refreshed annually. Check back soon. Report Cards Sponsor [Reach Every Grand Rapids Family Comparing Schools — Get Featured Here](/advertise/) 6. FEATURED SCHOOLS & PROGRAMS ============================================================ --> Active Deadlines & Notable Programs ## Featured Schools & Programs Grand Valley State University Fall 2026 Applications Open APPLICATIONS OPEN Grand Valley State University serves Grand Rapids and the surrounding West Michigan region. MI in-state tuition available  ·  Multiple degree programs [Learn More →](#) Calvin University Fall 2026 Applications Open APPLICATIONS OPEN Calvin University serves Grand Rapids and the surrounding West Michigan region. MI in-state tuition available  ·  Multiple degree programs [Learn More →](#) Aquinas College Fall 2026 Applications Open APPLICATIONS OPEN Aquinas College serves Grand Rapids and the surrounding West Michigan region. MI in-state tuition available  ·  Multiple degree programs [Learn More →](#) MI Governor's School for Science & Math Statewide Magnet Applications APPLICATIONS OPEN MI's elite residential magnet school for mathematically and scientifically gifted students. Open to all MI students. Free tuition  ·  Residential program  ·  Grades 11–12 [Learn More →](https://www.scgssm.org/admissions) MI Teaching Fellows Teaching Fellows Scholarship SCHOLARSHIP $6,000 per year for high school seniors planning to teach in MI. Competitive program recognizing future educators. $6,000/year  ·  Service requirement  ·  All MI colleges [Learn More →](https://www.cerra.org/teaching-fellows.html) Grand Rapids Community College High School Dual Enrollment — Free FREE FOR HS STUDENTS High school juniors and seniors can earn college credit at Grand Rapids Community College at no cost under MI's Dual Enrollment program. MI Dual Enrollment  ·  College credit  ·  No cost to student [Learn More →](#) Featured Listing [Get Your School or Program Featured Here — Contact HEREGrandRapids](/advertise/) Interactive Career & Education Tool ## The HERE Decision Maker 6 questions, a personalized education & career roadmap. Free. No sign-up. Question 1 of 6 Question 1 of 6 ### Where are you right now? ✓ High School StudentCurrently enrolled, exploring next steps ✓ Recent GraduateHS or college grad, starting out ✓ Working AdultAlready working, looking to advance or change ✓ Parent / GuardianResearching options for my child Continue → Question 2 of 6 ### What matters most to you? ✓ Income FastMaximize earnings as quickly as possible ✓ Passion & PurposeWork that aligns with my values and interests ✓ Stability & SecurityConsistent job, good benefits, solid future ✓ Growth & AdvancementCareer path with upward mobility and learning ← Back Continue → Question 3 of 6 ### How do you learn best? ✓ Hands-OnLabs, workshops, apprenticeships, doing ✓ Structured ClassroomLectures, assignments, guided learning ✓ Self-DirectedOnline, at my own pace, flexible schedule ✓ Mix of EverythingCombination that keeps me engaged ← Back Continue → Question 4 of 6 ### How much time can you commit? ✓ Full-Time Student30–40 hours/week, fully committed to education ✓ Part-Time (10–20 hrs/wk)Working while studying, steady pace ✓ A Few Hours Per WeekMicro-learning, certifications, self-study ✓ Weekend / Evening OnlyDay job, learning outside work hours ← Back Continue → Question 5 of 6 ### What career field interests you most? ✓ Healthcare & NursingNursing, therapy, public health, allied health ✓ Technology & ITSoftware, cybersecurity, data, networking ✓ Skilled TradesElectrician, HVAC, welding, construction ✓ Business & FinanceManagement, accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship ✓ EducationTeaching, counseling, school administration ✓ Creative & MediaDesign, communications, arts, journalism ✓ Manufacturing & EngineeringAdvanced manufacturing, engineering technology ✓ Public ServiceGovernment, military, first responders, social work ← Back Continue → Question 6 of 6 ### Where should we send your personalized roadmap? We'll email your free education & career plan — no obligation. Get My Roadmap → ← Back Your Personalized Roadmap ## Your Grand Rapids Education & Career Plan Based on your answers, here are the top 3 paths we recommend in Grand Rapids. **Want this plan emailed to you?** We'll send a PDF summary plus local scholarship and program contacts. Send My Plan Start Over Decision Maker Sponsor [Sponsor the Decision Maker — Reach Job Seekers & Students in Kent](/advertise/) Flexible Learning Options ## Online & Hybrid Education Accredited programs for Kent residents who need flexibility. Grand Valley State University Grand Valley State University Online Programs Online and hybrid degree and certificate programs. MI in-state tuition rates available for eligible students. MI in-state tuition [Learn More →](#) Calvin University Calvin University Online Programs Online and hybrid degree and certificate programs. MI in-state tuition rates available for eligible students. MI in-state tuition [Learn More →](#) Google Career Certificates Grow with Google — Career Certificates Google, IBM, Meta, and other employer-backed certificates. Many are accepted by Kent's manufacturing and tech employers. Some WIOA-funded. Free via Coursera Financial Aid [Learn More →](https://grow.google/certificates/) SC Technical College System MI Online Workforce Training The MI Technical College System offers online certificates and associate degree programs through the state's 16 technical colleges. MI in-state rates + WIOA eligible [Learn More →](https://www.sctechsystem.edu) Program Sponsor [Feature Your Online Program — Reach Adult Learners in Kent](/advertise/) Governance & Accountability ## School Board Meetings HEREGrandRapids covers every public school board meeting in Kent — agendas published in advance, votes summarized after. Grand Rapids Public Schools Grand Rapids Public Schools **Next Meeting:** Check district website for schedule **Location:** Kent — district office Forest Hills Public Schools Forest Hills Public Schools **Next Meeting:** Check district website for schedule **Location:** Kent — district office Kentwood Public Schools Kentwood Public Schools **Next Meeting:** Check district website for schedule **Location:** Kent — district office Diocese of Grand Rapids (Private) Diocese of Grand Rapids (Private) **Next Meeting:** Check district website for schedule **Location:** Kent — district office East Grand Rapids Public Schools East Grand Rapids Public Schools **Next Meeting:** Check district website for schedule **Location:** Kent — district office Northview Public Schools Northview Public Schools **Next Meeting:** Check district website for schedule **Location:** Kent — district office ### Key Education Policy Issues — Kent 📚 MI READY Scores — Grade-level reading by 3rd grade HIGH 💰 Title I Funding Allocations — Kent schools HIGH 🏫 School Safety — Resource officers on campus HIGH 🎓 Dual Enrollment Expansion — High school / college MEDIUM 🏗️ Facilities & Bonds — Building referenda MEDIUM 👩‍🏫 Teacher Recruitment & Pay — Local supplements HIGH Section Sponsor [Sponsor Board Coverage — Reach Kent Education Leaders](/advertise/) Common Questions ## Education FAQ — Grand Rapids ### How many school districts does Kent have? + Kent is served by 6 school districts. Each district has its own elected board, superintendent, and budget. Use our School Neighborhood Matcher above to find which district fits your family. ### How do I enroll my child in a Kent school? + Enrollment is handled at the district level. Your school district is determined by your home address. Contact the relevant district office or visit their website for forms, residency requirements, and deadlines. ### What colleges are in or near Grand Rapids? + Grand Rapids and Kent are served by 6 higher-education institutions: Grand Valley State University, Calvin University, Aquinas College, Cornerstone University, and more. Use our Decision Maker tool above to find the right fit for your goals. ### Is there financial aid available for Grand Rapids students? + Yes — the MI LIFE and Palmetto Fellows scholarships are merit-based awards for students attending MI colleges. MI WINS is a workforce scholarship for technical programs. FAFSA is available for all eligible students. Grand Rapids Community College's Dual Enrollment program lets high schoolers earn free college credits. The MI Teaching Fellows scholarship provides $6,000/year for future educators. ### How does high school athletics work in Kent? + High school athletics in Kent are governed by the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). Schools compete in classifications based on enrollment (1A–5A for most sports). HEREGrandRapids covers every home game, playoff bracket, and signing-day announcement. ### How do I submit a tip or story idea to HEREGrandRapids? + Use the Submit an Education Tip form at the top of this page. We cover school board decisions, program announcements, scholarship opportunities, enrollment deadlines, and any issue affecting Kent students and families. Tips can be submitted anonymously. Weekly Newsletter ## Grand Rapids Education Newsletter Every Thursday — deadlines, board meeting summaries, scholarship alerts, and education news for Kent. No fluff. ✓ School board meeting recaps — Kent ✓ Scholarship and enrollment deadlines ✓ MHSAA scores and playoff alerts ✓ Campus news — Grand Valley State University, Calvin University ✓ Free. Unsubscribe any time. **Get the Grand Rapids Education Briefing** Free. Every Thursday morning. Subscribe Free → No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. © 2026 HEREGrandRapids · Education coverage across the MI HERE network.