Opening day at HLA
Kids celebrate Day of the Child
riboncutting at new playground
Field Day at HLA

I believe every child deserves the chance to succeed, no matter their circumstances. As a proud graduate of Holland Public Schools and a parent whose children learn in our buildings, I believe deeply in the work we are doing together for my children and yours.

This is my nineteenth year in education and my eleventh as principal, yet my passion for teaching and supporting children has never been stronger. I am grateful for the privilege of serving the community that shaped me, and I look forward to all we will accomplish together for our students this year.

-Iliana Vasquéz
Principal



The Red Note - HLA Newsletter

Check here each Sunday afternoon for an updated newsletter.

What's Happening at HLA:

Complete the Education Benefits Form

EVERY student in the district will gain from ALL families completing the Education Benefits form.

  • Enhances Student programming (more counselors, tutors and supplies)
  • Academic Savings (reduced test, college and athletic fees)
  • Technology Access (Internet/computer support at home)
  • Nutritional Assistance (summer grocery funding)
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A Joyful Start to the School Year!

What an amazing start to the school year! Balloons, a DJ, breakfast tacos & coffee, confetti, cheers, and so much joy, nothing compares to our HLA first-day tradition! We are beyond honored to partner with you on your child’s educational journey.

This year, our staff is committed to ensuring that every student experiences four things each day: joy, belonging, consistency, and high expectations.

We know we will not be perfect, but we are committed to reflecting, learning, and improving every day. Our “1% Better” focus is not about lowering the bar, it is about recognizing that small, intentional improvements, made consistently over time, lead to remarkable growth. Together, we will continue raising the bar and becoming better for our students each day.

Be sure to visit this linkto enjoy photos from our incredible first-day celebration and relive the excitement, smiles, and special moments that made the start of this school year unforgettable!

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Home Football Games - Reminder of Rules and Expectations

As Holland High School prepares to host the last home football game of the season, here is a reminder about some of the rules and expectations for students and families who attend the game:

  • Middle school age and younger MUST be an accompanied by an adult.
  • No student backpacks.
  • No re-entry for any spectators.
  • All school rules apply to events held at Hope College. 
  • The stadium and parking lot is a drug free school zone which includes any vape products.
  • HHS Students with 5Star App will be admitted for FREE.
  • HMS Students with an athletics pass will be admitted for FREE.

Holland will host Godwin Heights at the Hope College Stadium, Thursday at 7pm. #GoDutch

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Bus Behavior Expectations

Holland Public Schools is implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Bus Expectations across our district's transportation services. This initiative aims to create a safe, respectful, and responsible environment for all students who utilize our school buses.

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Outdoor Movie Night

Districtwide Movie Night - Friday, August 28, 8pm | HHS Soccer Field

  • MOVIE: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
  • FREE!
  • Bring Lawn Chairs and Blankets

Hosted by HHS Student senate.

Hello, ‘26-’27 School Year!

We’re ready to kick off an amazing school year! Can’t wait to see our returning families and welcome our new ones, this is going to be a year full of learning, growth, and connection. Go Dutch!

Join us for Open House on Tuesday, August 25, 4–6 p.m.

Please plan to attend HLA Fifteen, a quick, 15-minute crash course covering everything you need to know! We will meet in the cafeteria.  Meeting Times:
4:00, 4:30, 5:15, or 5:45 p.m.

We’ll cover:

  • Attendance
  • Drop-off and pick-up procedures
  • Title I information
  • Volunteer forms

Choose the time that works best for you. We look forward to seeing you!

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Calendar for 2026-2027

2026-2027 Calendar Highlights

  • First Day of School:  August 27
  • Labor Day Weekend | No School: September 4-7
  • Fall Break | No school: October 23
  • Professional Development Day | No school: November 6
  • Thanksgiving Break: November 25-27
  • Holiday Break: December 20- January 3
  • MLK Day | No School: January 18
  • Midwinter Break: February 26-March 1
  • Professional Development Day | No school: March 19
  • Spring Break: April 2-April 11
  • Professional Development Day | No school: April 23
  • Memorial Day | No School: May 31
  • Last Day of School: June 9

HLA School Supply Suggested Shopping List - 2026-27

The first day of School is Thursday, August 27.

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Back-to-School Events

School Starts Thursday, August 27!

Check out the lists of suggested school supplies

2026-2027 Books & Games - HLA

Books & Games provides students with an hour of supervised reading, homework help, and games, plus a free breakfast an hour before school starts each morning.

  • It also gives parents/guardians an extra hour to start their day or  to get to work on time!

Students must be registered Books & Games 1 day before attending.

2026 TCOB Day - Takin' Care of Business Day

We're getting ready for the first day of school and handling all the administrative business before the first day of school on August 27.

  • Taking Care of Business Day is Tuesday, August 11
  • Drop-in 1-6pm at Holland High School Office

For K-12 families who have NOT completed online registration OR who need assistance with:

  • Registration or Enrollment
  • Parent Portal
  • Academic counseling
  • Paying fees
  • These services will NOT be available at Open House on Tuesday, August 25!

Students who need transportation during the first two weeks of school must register BEFORE Wednesday, August 12.

HPSPodcast 6.41

On the podcast this week, we talk with Patty Beatty, Director of Early Childhood about all the great things happening with HPS Preschool.

HLA Calendar

HLA Calendar
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Holland Language Academy
461 Van Raalte Ave

Holland, MI 49423
Phone: 616-494-2600
Fax: 616-393-7652

Teachers & Staff

School Times:

  • Full Day | 8:15am* - 3:21pm
  • Wednesday Early Dismissal | 2:21pm
  • Half Day | 8:15* - 11:20am

*Please do not arrive at school earlier than 8:10

HLA Office Hours:

  • 7:45am- 4pm | M-F (August-June)

HLA Media Center

We are Here For You and your student.

Click here for emotional & mental health resources.


Volunteer at HLA:

We love when parents or guardians get involved. Make sure to fill out the district volunteer form (once each school year) and return it to the office.