News Summary
Recent findings by Stacker highlight the excellent academic performance of public high schools in Grand Rapids. Top-ranked schools, including Grand Rapids Public Schools and Forest Hills Public Schools, earned impressive Niche grades, reflecting their commitment to education. The rankings consider various factors such as academic achievements, diversity, and student feedback, showcasing a competitive landscape for local education. As the academic year progresses, these schools continue to prioritize quality education and support for their diverse student populations.
Grand Rapids, MI – In a notable recent study by Stacker, public high schools within the Grand Rapids metro area have received high marks for their academic performance and overall student experience. The rankings are derived from data provided by Niche, which takes into account academic achievements, culture and diversity, sports, extracurricular activities, resources, and feedback from parents, teachers, and students.
Top-ranked among those schools is Grand Rapids Public Schools, which boasts an impressive enrollment of 908 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of 23:1. The district earned an outstanding Niche grade of A+. This strong grade is indicative of the school’s commitment to fostering a learning environment that caters effectively to student needs.
The next top-ranked institutions are the individual locations within the Forest Hills Public Schools system, each exhibiting solid performance levels. A location within the district has an enrollment of 802 students and a ratio of 20:1, receiving a grade of A. Another location serves 1,134 students with a slightly lower student-to-teacher ratio of 19:1, also attaining a grade of A. The third location, with 1,053 students, has a ratio of 21:1, yet still achieves a grade of A, demonstrating the overall excellence associated with Forest Hills Public Schools.
Other high-performers include East Grand Rapids Public Schools, also earning a grade of A with 914 students enrolled, and Black River Public School, which stands out with a low student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1 and a Niche grade of A. Both districts emphasize the importance of maintaining smaller class sizes to enhance personalized education for students.
Complementing this elite group, West Ottawa Public Schools received an A grade with an enrollment of 2,211 students. The weight of its size is balanced by its student-to-teacher ratio of 20:1, ensuring quality education alongside a robust student body.
Several other institutions follow closely behind, with Niche Grades ranging from A- to B+. Jenison, Lowell, Northview, Zeeland, and Grand Haven Area Public Schools all achieved A- ratings. They reflect a commitment to educational excellence with consistent student-to-teacher ratios around the 18:1 to 20:1 mark, which facilitates individualized support and scrutiny over student performance and well-being.
The Holland City School District and Rockford Public Schools also maintained respectable B+ ratings, while their enrollments and student-to-teacher ratios show a need for continued growth in serving their respective populations effectively. Holland has 962 students with a 17:1 ratio, while Rockford consists of 1,819 students and a ratio of 19:1.
These rankings underscore the competitive landscape of high school education in the Grand Rapids area, emphasizing the multifaceted evaluation criteria utilized by Niche. The results hinge not only on academic performance but also on diversity and socio-emotional factors integral to student life.
Behind these rankings is the underlying commitment to education in Michigan, where various districts are continually adapting and improving their educational offerings. The focus on balancing class sizes with teacher availability, alongside varying district resources, paints a comprehensive picture of the local educational environment.
As the students and faculty move further into the 2025 academic year, Grand Rapids high schools showcase a commitment to nurturing through quality education—a key factor in preparing students for their future paths, whether in higher education or the workforce. With a range of rankings reflecting their strengths, local students have numerous options that align with their individual needs and aspirations.
As weather clouds gather over Grand Rapids, with isolated thunderstorms possible this afternoon and a high of 84°F, the focus remains steadfast on education, proving that the future of Grand Rapids high schools is bright and filled with potential.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Grand Rapids Educators Protest for Higher Salaries
Grand Rapids Private High School Rankings Released
Grand Rapids: A Design and Sustainability Leader
GVSU Women’s Golf Team Concludes Regular Season
Michigan Law School Rises to No. 8 Amid DEI Cuts Controversy
Graduation Rates Soar in Kent and Ottawa Counties
Kent County Faces Educational Challenges with Low-Performing Schools
Additional Resources
- USA Today: East Grand Rapids vs Forest Hills Central Girls Soccer
- Grand Rapids MN: National Guard Signing Day
- Kilgore News Herald: Best Public High Schools in Grand Rapids Metro Area
- Fox 17: Grand Rapids Public Schools State of the Schools
- MLive: Grand Rapids Schools Spending Less on Instruction
