Welcome to Holland Public Schools

This week we introduce to the first seven semi-finalists for the Power H IMPACT Award!

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From West: Lisa Dekker, Ivana Osziova, and Cherish Witters
From Holland High School: Sue Hemmeke, Jason Siersma, and Dan Telgenhof
Student Engagement Semi-finalist: Bethany VanOss

• Each SemiFinalist receives a $500 prize provided by HEF and an anonymous Holland family.
• 7 Finalist will be selected by building and district colleagues - each receiving a $1000 prize provided by HEF and an anonymous Holland family.
• 1 Winner will be chosen by the community in late April. The winner will receive a $5000 prize provided by HEF and an anonymous Holland family.

Congratulations to our February Students of the Month at Holland Middle School!

• Hadelyn Owens
• Ellen Cox
• Kamila Delgadilio

They demonstrate what it means to be DUTCH (Diverse, United, Thrive, Committed, Honorable).

Parent/Teacher Conferences are a great way to engage with your student's teacher!

• Preschool: February 17 & 25, 4:15-7:15p and February 26, 8:30a-3:15p. 
• PreK+/K thru Grade 5: February 17 & 25,  4:15-7:15p. 
• HMS & HHS: February 18 & 24, 3:30-6:30p

The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation recently awarded HPS a Sports Matters Foundation grant for $13,000!  The grant will launch a pilot program to provide transportation to students who may not otherwise be able to participate in afterschool athletic programs otherwise due to transportation issues. 

HPS Nutritional Services Monthly Newsletter:

• The Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program 
• Meet the HOLLAND HIGH SCHOOL Food Service Staff
• No Cost Breakfast

Inclusion Week (February 9-13) is a dedicated time to celebrate diversity, promote understanding, and foster a school culture where all students feel valued and included regardless of ability. 

• Throughout the week, we highlight the importance of inclusive practices in education by engaging students and staff in activities that promote empathy, collaboration, and accessibility.

By embracing inclusion, we strengthen our community and create a learning environment where everyone belongs.

This week, we're talking with parents about the Small Schools and Big Opportunities available at Holland Public Schools

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The College Board Organization recognizes Holland High School as an official College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) Test Site.  Test takers may include:

• High School Students
• Homeschool Students
• Current College Students
• Adults Returning to College
• Military Service Members & Veterans

Since January 2023, 24 HPS Teachers have been awarded more than $573k toward the costs of purchasing a home in or near the district.

“The Teachers Live Here program was an incredible support throughout my home-buying process, and I am truly grateful for Hollands' investment in teachers. Living closer to my school has helped me feel more connected to my students, their families, and the community I serve.”

-Lilian Bol, the very first recipient of a Teachers Live Here grant.

The City of Holland Human Relations Commission's annual Social Justice Awards recognize individuals and organizations who exemplify the virtues of social justice by promoting equal opportunity and equal access for all residents!

• Anotidaishe Grace Mangwiro (Class of 2026) | Youth Social Justice Award - For uplifting marginalized communities, amplifying youth voices, and promoting equity.
• Kayla Gearring (HHS Special Ed. Teacher)| Accessibility - For championing supportive structures that expand opportunities for students of all abilities and backgrounds.

As part of our district’s ongoing efforts to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive learning environment for all students, your child will be invited to take a Social Emotional Learning Survey  Wednesday, January 28 - Friday, February 6. 

• The results of the survey will help our staff strengthen programs and support that increase our learner’s awareness and competency with social emotional skills.
• Results of the survey will be published in March on the district website.

Finalists for the 2025-26 Michigan High School Athletic Association's Scholar-Athlete Awards have been announced.  2 Seniors from Holland High School are among the 120 finalists statewide:

• Maggie Telgenhof
• Andrew Legg

To be eligible for the award, students must have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.50 (on a 4.0 scale) and previously have won a varsity letter in at least one sport in which the MHSAA sponsors a postseason tournament. Students also were asked to respond to a series of short essay questions and submit two letters of recommendation and a 500-word essay on the importance of sportsmanship in educational athletics.

32 winners will be announced in February.