West Elementary

Bus Behavior Expectations

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 01:41:00 GMT

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.

Outdoor Movie Night

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

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

MOVIE: TBD
FREE!
Bring Lawn Chairs and Blankets

Hosted by HHS Student senate.

Back to School | West Elementary

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to another exciting school year at Holland West! I hope you and your family had a wonderful summer and had plenty of opportunities to relax, spend time together, and create lasting memories.

As we prepare to welcome our students back, I am filled with excitement for all that the new school year will bring. You may notice that Holland West looks a little different when you return. We have been busy making improvements to our school, and we are excited about the changes taking place! While the construction work continues, we ask that you please pardon the dust and have patience as we put the finishing touches on our building. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to create an even better environment for our students and staff. Despite the construction, one thing has not changed—Holland West remains a place where every child is known, valued, and supported. Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to creating engaging learning experiences, building meaningful relationships with students, and helping every child grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Calendar for 2026-2027

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

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

West School Supply Suggested Shopping List - 2026-27

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The first day of School is Thursday, August 27.

Back-to-School Events

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

School Starts Thursday, August 27!

Freshman Family Night - August 18 6-8pm | Holland High School
6th Grade Orientation Night- August 20 5-6:30pm | Holland Middle School
Open House - Tuesday, August 25 4-6pm | Every HPS School

Check out the lists of suggested school supplies

2026-2027 Books & Games - West

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

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

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 15:34:00 GMT

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

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 03:59:00 GMT

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

Listen Now

Fighting the Summer Slide - Workbook

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Studies show that over the summer students lose a considerable amount of what they've learned during the previous school year. That's why HPS is sending home Summer Learning bags with every K-5 student in the district.

Set aside time each day to do an activity with your child. This investment will help them stay engaged and retain more of what they've learned.

2026 Summer Adventure Camps with ODC

Tue, 19 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

We are excited to announce that enrollment is now open for the 2026 Summer Adventure Camps with the Outdoor Discovery Center! This engaging summer program is designed for students going into 1st grade through 5th grade and will focus on literacy skills through hands-on, nature-rich experiences.

Adventure Camp will be held at Jefferson Elementary 282 W 30th Street
June 15-July 23
8:30am – 12:30pm each day (Breakfast and Lunch will be available at no cost.)

The Summer Adventure Camp with ODC is led by the Outdoor Discovery Center’s Education Network and will take the place of HPS Summer School. This is the ONLY Summer School option being offered at HPS in the summer of 2026 for K-5 students.

May West News #3

Tue, 19 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

West May News #2

Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

7-Day Meal Box -2026

Sun, 10 May 2026 07:22:00 GMT

HPS is proud to provide 7-Day Meal Boxes to families in the district during the summer months.

Each box will contain a menu with food prep instructions and food items for 7 breakfasts and 7 lunches per week.

Meal pick-up will be located at Central Wesleyan Church (446 West 40th St. Holland MI 49423 - Door A) from 12:00-1:00 PM
Thursday, June 11 through July 30
Meals will be distributed based on a first come first served basis and not based on pre-registration.

There is no need to register for these meals... just stop by during the pick-up time to receive the meals for your student(s).

Nurse Notes - May

Sun, 10 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

For the last 77 years, May has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. It was introduced by the organization Mental Health America, with the focus of increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting wellness.

In this month's newsletter, you'll learn more about practices that can help improve our children’s mental health as well as our own.

West May News #1

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

HPSPodcast 6.31

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

This week we talk with our Community Coordinators Alex Crisp (Holland Heights & HMS), Grace Stupka (West & Jefferson), and Kate Leighton-Colburn (HLA and HHS) about the Registration Block Party and Ice Cream Social on Wednesday, April 29, 5:30-7pm at Holland Middle School.

Listen Now!

2026 District Art Awards

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to our 2026 District Art Award Winners:

Cassidy Russell, Grade 12
Jordan Garcia, Grade 11
Von Bunnell II, Grade 9
Jose Mendez Pimentel Jr, Grade 8
Hendrick Hoekman, Grade 7
Charlotte Buck, Grade 6
Gennesis Ramirez-Ramirez, Holland Heights 5
Tamari Jeanne, West 3
Noah Fortuna, Jefferson 3
Cecelia Ferreira, HLA 4

The award-winning artwork will hang in the Board Training Room at the District Admin Building for next year.

West April News #2

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

2026 District Art Show

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 13:30:00 GMT

The HPS Art Department is proud to show the incredible works of art created by students from all HPS buildings.

April 30-May15 in the Art Gallery at Holland High School

An Opening Night reception will be held on April 30, 4:30-6pm in the Art Gallery at Holland High School.

Social Emotional Learning Survey - Spring 2026

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

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 April 27-May 8.

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 late May on the district website.

HPSPodcast 6.30

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

The Holland High School S.H.O.R.E Club will celebrate Earth Day next week... and you're invited to celebrate with them!

Listen to Learn More!

April News #1

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

SHORE Club Earth Day Craft Night

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Wednesday, April 22, 5-7pm in the HHS Commons

For all HPS Families: K-12!
A fun family craft with members of the HHS SHORE Club

West March/April News

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

HPSPodcast 6.28

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:20:00 GMT

Vocal Dimensions performance of Legends & Icons hits the stage of HHS PAC March 26-28. This week, we're talking with Vocals members Ka'Shay Louks and Luke Rund-Scott.

Listen Now!

West March News #4

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Holland Bands' Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza & Taco Drive

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Thousands of Eggs. Hundreds of Prizes!

There will be raffle prizes, baked goods, and authentically delicious tacos for sale plus, of course, an Easter Egg Hunt with fun prizes!

Saturday March 28, 1-3pm
First Reformed Church of Holland
$5 Admission | $10 Taco Plate

This is great for the young or just the young at heart! Hope to see you there!

Nurse Notes - March

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

This month, we are celebrating National Nutrition Month, an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This year’s theme focuses on how we can fuel our bodies for the future while enjoying the flavors of the present! In this month's Nurse Notes:

Fuel for the Future
Nutrition by the Numbers
"Monster" Energy Bites

Whether you are a student fueling up for a big test, a staff member looking for an afternoon energy boost, or a parent planning family dinners, nutrition is the foundation for success in and out of the classroom.

West March News #3

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

West March News #2

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

West March News #1

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

West Student Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Whats' Cooking - March

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

HPS Nutritional Services Monthly Newsletter:

Celebrating Breakfast in Schools
National School Breakfast Week menu
No cost breakfast and lunch each school day for ALL students

National School Breakfast Week - The Quest for Breakfast

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

National School Breakfast Week is March 3-6

National School Breakfast Week celebrates the important role a nutritious school breakfast plays in helping students start their day ready to learn, grow, and succeed. Observed each year during the first full week of March, NSBW shines a spotlight on the School Breakfast Program and the dedicated school nutrition professionals who fuel students every morning!

Dutch Theatre Presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion! (At least the losers get a juice box.)

March 5-8
Thurs-Sat at 7pm
Sat-Sun at 1pm
HHS PAC

A riotous ride, complete with audience participation, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a delightful den of comedic genius. The small cast and unit set make this a perfect option for high schools or community theatres. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a fast-paced crowd pleaser and an instant favorite.

West February News #4

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

West February News #3

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Parent Teacher Conferences - Winter 2026

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

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

West February Newsletter #2

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

HPSPodcast 6.21

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:00:00 GMT

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

Listen Now!

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.

West News-- February #1

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Whats' Cooking - February

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

HPS Nutritional Services Monthly Newsletter:

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

Inclusion Week

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

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.

HPSPodcast 6.20

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

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

Listen Now!

West January News #3

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Social Emotional Learning Survey

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

HPS Podcast 6.18

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:59:00 GMT

Enrollment is open for families for the 2026-2027 school year. This week, we talk with Jefferson Kindergarten teacher Mary Wilcox about the Small Schools and Big Opportunities at Holland Public Schools!

Listen now!

January News #2

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

January Newsletter #1

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Whats' Cooking - January

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

HPS Nutritional Services Monthly Newsletter:

The Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program at West, Heights, and Jefferson Elementary is going amazingly well!
Meet the HOLLAND MIDDLE SCHOOL Food Service Staff
No Cost Breakfast

2026 Power H IMPACT Award - Nominations

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

At Holland Public Schools we love to share the stories of how our staff members are having a positive impact on the lives of students and families in the community.

Nominate a HPS Staff member for the 2026 Power H Impact Award by sharing a story about how they have had an impact on your life!

West December News #3

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

West December News #2

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Whats' Cooking - December

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

HPS Nutritional Services Monthly Newsletter:

The Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program at West, Heights, and Jefferson Elementary is going amazingly well!
No Cost Breakfast Program Message
Meet the WEST ELEMENTARY Food Service Staff

Nurse Notes - December

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 06:09:00 GMT

As we approach the holiday season, it’s important to keep in mind that we need to take care of ourselves physically and emotionally. To balance holidays and health, we should think about prioritizing self-care.

Our monthly newsletter from the Holland Hospital School Nurses.

West December News #1

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Reminder about REMIND

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:02:00 GMT

REMIND is the best way to get “Snow Day” announcements from HPS.

West November News #4

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

West November News #3

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

HPSPodcast 6.13

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT

Holland Dutch Theatre is ready for opening night of The SpongeBob Musical! This week we talk with Abby Hart and Olivia Zoet from the cast of the show.

Listen Now!

Nurse Notes - November

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

It's Flu Season and the Holland Hospital School Nurses have some important notes on the Flu.

November News #2

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 01:37:00 GMT

Downtown Holland To Host Winter Gear Donation Drive to Benefit HPS

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Downtown Holland is partnering with HPS to host a winter gear donation drive to help keep elementary school students warm and dry this winter. A total of 14 Downtown Holland businesses will be collecting donations as part of the drive, being held from November 3 – 16.

Holland Public School families in need will be able to collect the items at their Power H shopping event on November 19, with details provided to students by HPS.

Food Insecurity During the Government Shutdown

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

The health and well-being of HPS students & families is our highest priority.

During this government shutdown we know that many HPS families could experience food insecurity; especially those that rely on SNAP benefits. If your family is experiencing food insecurity during this government shutdown, HPS is here to help.

HPSPodcast 6.12

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Holland Public Schools and the BeNice organization will host Thrive Together on Thursday evening at Holland Middle School. This is a night focused on mental health for students and their families. On the HPSPodcast his week, we talk with Holland Hospital School Nurse Program Mental Health Care Manager Lisa Gort about the district's focus on helping students Thrive and on this important event.

Listen Now!

Thrive Together will be held Thursday, October 6, 5:30-7pm at Holland Middle School.

November News

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Whats' Cooking - November

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

HPS Nutritional Services Monthly Newsletter:

Exciting News for Middle School Students Can Now Enjoy Ala Carte Options at Lunch!
Staff Spotlights, Meet some of our HPS Nutrition Lead Food Service Servers: Lori Lutke, Heather Bowes, Linda Wilson

October News #2

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

October News

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Meet our Student Resource Officers!

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Take a look at the Holland Dept of Public Safety School Resource Officers (SRO) and Community Policing Officers who are assigned to our schools.

Ofc. Nicole Hamberg - Holland High
Ofc. Nic Wedeven – Holland Middle
Ofc. Spencer DeGraaf – Heights
Ofc. Padron-Hernandez – West and HLA
Ofc. Rod Mendoza - Jefferson

Firearm Safety and Harm Prevention

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Legal ownership of firearms comes with important safety responsibilities to prevent accidental firearm injuries and deaths, thefts, and suicide, including among children.

Under House Bill 5451, beginning October 1, 2025, Michigan law will require school districts to distribute a safe storage informational notice—developed by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)—to the parent or legal guardian of each student each October.

HPSPodcast 6.9

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

HPS is celebrating National School Lunch Week. This week, we talk with the Director of HPS Nutritional Services, Aretha Banks.

Listen Now!

Nurse Notes - October

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Halloween Safety - Kids love the magic of Halloween, but costume and traffic safety are essential for trick-or-treaters. Here are some tips to keep everyone safe.

Taste the World | National School Lunch Week

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Holland Public Schools Nutrition Department will be taking our students on a trip around the Globe to celebrate National School Lunch Week. Please join us a we celebrate these different cuisine styles from around the world.

Whats' Cooking - October

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

HPS Nutritional Services Monthly Newsletter

Holland Public Schools has been awarded both the 10 Cents a Meal Grant and the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Grant for the 2025–2026 school year. While these two programs are separate, we’ll be combining our efforts to ensure our students enjoy locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the school year.

Homecoming 2025 - WEST

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Homecoming week is full of fun events for all HPS Students, Families, and Alumni!

Powder Puff & Alumni Football Game | Sunday, October 5, 5pm
Homecoming Parade | Friday, October 10, 6pm
Homecoming Game | Friday, October 10, 7pm
HOCO Fun Run | Saturday, October 11, 9am
HOCO Dance | Saturday, October 11, 8-11pm

HPSPodcast 6.6

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

This week we talk with HLA Principal Iliana Vasquez about 2nd Annual Gentex STEM Night and first ever Paper Airplane Contest! It happens Thursday, 5-7pm at the HHS Commons.

Listen Now!

Districtwide Outdoor Movie Night

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

HHS Student Senate is hosting a movie night featuring Cars 2.

Friday, September 19, 8pm at HHS Soccer Field
All grades/ages are welcome
Bring a lawn chair or blanket
Snacks for purchase

Districtwide STEM Night & Paper Airplane Flying Contest

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 15:27:00 GMT

Gentex is sponsoring the 2nd Annual Districtwide STEM Night on Thursday, September 25, 5-7pm in the HHS Commons

Chemistry Experiments
Robotics Demonstration
LEGOs
Virtual Reality Games
Community Partners
and more!

Whose paper plane can fly the furthest? Fold and fly your plane in the Paper Airplane contest to see if it's you!

Talk to your STEM teacher to learn more!

West Elementary News

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

2025 School Nurse Fun Run

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 15:55:00 GMT

Holland Hospital invites all students, families, friends and faculty to join us for the annual School Nurse Fun Run on Thursday, September 11 at Holland High School.

Nurse Notes - May

Tue, 27 May 2025 05:50:00 GMT

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and your school nurses want to promote positive mental health for our HPS family.

Nurse Notes -March is National Nutrition Month

Sat, 22 Mar 2025 04:50:00 GMT

March is National Nutrition Month, and it’s the perfect time to focus on healthy eating habits that support growing minds and active bodies! Balanced nutrition is essential for your child’s energy, focus, and overall well-being.

Here are some tips and ideas to help your family make healthy choices this month and beyond.