August 17, 2020 Regular School Board Meeting

The Power H shop is a store that opens one night each month.  It allows HPS families to come and shop for clothing, school supplies, and household items - FREE of charge! All the items are donated by area agencies and organization - and families just like yours! But, our inventory is running low!

In February, instead of allowing families to come and shop, we're asking you to come and give!

• THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 4:30-6pm

We're looking for BRAND NEW items:

• Shoes
• Clothing
• Coats and boots
• Backpacks
• School supplies
• Household items

#HPSProud of Teeyana Rumpsa (5th Grade at West Elementary) who was chosen from students across the country to participate in a virtual meeting with Joanna Ho, author of Eyes that Kiss at the Corners.  Teeyana was able to ask the author a question during the meeting and received a collection of books from Scholastic Book Club.

Congratulations to the following students whose artwork will be featured in the Region 9 Art Show (February 1-22) 

• Clara Ward | 5th Grade Holland Heights - Mr McKay
• Amy Peng | 5th Grade Holland Heights - Mr McKay
• Kooper Schipper | 5th Grade West Elementary - Mrs Hilderbrand
• Will Rund | 5th Grade West Elementary - Mrs Hilderbrand
• Asia Kaseumsouk | 2nd Grade West Elementary - Mrs Deenik

This week, Superintendent Nick Cassidy announced the details of the new Teachers Live Here program that is aimed at retaining and attracting the very best teachers to Holland Public Schools. Here is a part of that announcement.

TRAILS invites you to attend a free presentation: Suicide Awareness and Prevention for Caregivers and Communities on Tuesday, February 7, from 4:30-5:45pm (Eastern) via Zoom.

• January 28, 3 & 7pm at HHS Performing Arts Center

Teachers Live Here will provide $25,000 in down payment assistance to Holland Public Schools teachers. An anonymous donor in the City of Holland will help HPS retain and recruit the best educators to the district.

GSRP is FREE for families who qualify. We have immediate Openings at

• Jefferson Pre-K
• West Pre-K
• Natured-based Holland Heights Pre-K

Full-day classes are offered Monday through Thursday at each of HPS' K-5 buildings with a variety of family needs in mind.  GSRP is a state-funded preschool program serving children who turned 4 by December 1, 2022.

Two Holland High School Athletes are among 120 finalists for the Michigan High School Athletic Association's Scholar-Athlete Awards for the 2022-23 school year.

• James Baer (Tennis and Swimming)
• Eva Whiteman (Swimming and Track & Field)

The essays of several Holland High Students were included in today MLK Day Community Celebration, along with the artwork of students from around the district.

• Emmett Book
• Lauren Hofland
• Hannah Maginnis
• Yanyssa Ochoa

January 16, 2023, 6:00 pm, Board Training Room at the HPS Administration Building.

Public Comments can only be made in person.

The Holland OCSN and Pathways to Potential Team will open the Power H Shop for all Holland Public Families

• Thursday, January 11, 4:30-6pm

The Power H Shop is located at Longfellow School (32 E 24th St, Holland, MI 49423).

Meet the newest Trustees on the Holland Public Schools Board of Education: Chris Arendshorst and Lois Mulder.

Monday, January 16 at the Holland Civic Center

"Why We Can't Wait!"

• Doors open at 11am
• Community Celebration 11:45am-12:45pm
• Essays and Artwork of HPS students will be featured

Thank you: City of Holland, Community Foundation Holland/Zeeland Area, Gentext Corporation, and I Am Academy

Hey Seniors! Scholarship season is here at the Community Foundation of Holland/Zeeland. Applications deadlines are approaching for several scholarships!

Congratulations and Welcome to Chris Arendshorst and Lois Mulder. They took the oath of office on Monday, January 9 before the Annual Organization Meeting for the Board.

We're excited to be back in school tomorrow (Thursday, January 5) for the first time in 2023.

The students and staff of Holland Public Schools have THIS week off for the Holidays. LAST week, Gary Stevens talked with HPS Superintendent on WHTC’s Talk of the Town.  Here are some highlights from that conversation.

This week we talk with outgoing-trustee Phil Meyer about his time on the HPS Board of Education.

COVID isn't over quite yet! This week, we hear about a program with the Holland Hospital School Nurses that is helping keep families healthy as we deal with COVID along with RSV and Flu all at the same time.

Anya Wolters and Gretchen Timmer earn Superior Ratings at Michigan Thespian Festival.  

Julie Wade and Mallory Grant were award over $500,000 in scholarship offers.

Saturday, December 17 at 7pm at the Jack Miller Center for the Performing Arts at Hope College.

Featuring HHS Bands, Choirs and Orchestras.

The PERIOD PROJECT continues at Holland Public Schools.  The program that provides menstrual health products to students - FREE of charge.

 #HPSProud of our HHS Regional Honors Choir team this year!  

• Jacob Torres
• Sam Lunn
• Julie Wade
• Nora Frens**
• Felix Cruz-Gonzalez
• Ben Snyder

Nora will perform with the State Honors Choir in January.

27 members of the Class of 2023 were admitted to Hope College this week!

The Power H Shop will open this afternoon from 5-7p. This month, the shop will look a little more festive than in previous months.

Every student at Holland Heights will get a free copy of When Grandma Gives You a Lemon Tree thanks to a generous donation from Two Men and a Truck!

Everyone at Holland Public Schools is so thankful to be a part of the Holland Community…. this week, we talk to students at Holland Middle School and Jefferson Elementary about the other things they are thankful for!

Gigi Garza is a 3-time World Powerlifting Champion at the WPC World Championship in Orlando. She also broke and set 4 World Records:

• Squat 303.5lbs
• Bench 159.5
• Deadlift 292.5
• Total weight combined 755.5lbs

Gigi competed in 16-17 age group.

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

OCSN (Ottawa Community Schools Network), in partnership with Feeding America West Michigan, will host a mobile food pantry event ON NOVEMBER 14 at Holland High School to provide food for those in need.

During a staff luncheon this week, Superintendent Nick Cassidy recognized some Unsung Heroes of the HPS Staff.

• Nominate a HPS Unsung Hero

The HHS National Honor Society will host their Fall Blood Drive in the District Admin Building on Wednesday, November 16 | 8a-2p.

• High School blood drives account for 30% of the donor blood supply.
• The impact students can make on the community blood supply is INVALUABLE!
• 16-year-old donors: please be sure to bring your signed consent form and all donors bring an ID! 
• This event is also open to our adult neighbors in the Holland community

This week, we talk with HHS Assistant Principal Josh Rumpsa about the 85th Annual Veteran's Day Assembly at Holland High School.

Local veterans and neighbors in the community are invited to celebrate with the students and staff of Holland High School.

• Thursday, November 10, 1pm in the Dutch Dome at Holland High School.

Selection to the Regional Honors Choir puts these students in the top 120 high school singers in over 20 counties.

• Felix Cruz
• Ben Snyder
• Jacob Torres
• James Baer
• Julie Wade
• Nora Frens
• Sam Lunn

DNA (Dutch Nerd Army) hosted the 16th Holland Fall Quiz Bowl Invitational... and did very well.

This week, we learn more about what's on the ballot for School Election Day - Tuesday, November 8.

Land Acknowledgment: Acknowledging place and honoring people.

Congratulations to Josephine Suarez, recipient of the 2022 CultureWorks Creativity in Leadership Award!

On the ballot in the City of Holland: 19.5-Mill Non-Homestead Millage Proposal

• Supports Daily Operating Budget
• Does Not Apply to Primary Residences

This uplifting Broadway Junior show will have you raising your voice to the rafters!

• November 10-13 at the HHS Performing Arts Center

It’s been a busy fall for Performing Arts students at Holland High School. This week we talk with folks from the Holland Choirs, Bands, Orchestras, and Theatre!

This team made us so #HPSPROUD this season - both on the courts and in the classroom

• HHS Tennis named Academic All State
• #1 Dubs (Sam Payne and Elliot Wehrmeyer) named All-State Honorable Mention
• James Baer earned individual senior Academic All-State award
• Coach Kreps named Michigan High School Coaches Association Tennis Coach of the Year

HPS to Provide Free COVID Home Test Kits to Families and Staff.

LAUP will host Dia De Los Muertos celebration at the Holland Armory on Saturday, October 29

• 12-3pm | Art Show feature artwork from HPS students
• 12:15 | Performance by Marigal Rain Theatreworks
• 1:00 | Traditional Dance with Ballet Folklorico
• 3:00 | Art Show Awards Announced

Quiz Bowl action on Saturday night: The Dutch Nerd Army (DNA) opened their season successfully at the Jan Rademacher invitational in White Cloud.

Fun for the whole family

• Thursday, October 27, 7pm at HHS PAC

Practices and tryouts for middle school early winter sports  begin on Monday, October 17.

• Girls swim is open to 6th through 8th graders.
• Boys basketball is open to 7th and 8th graders. 

HPS is hosting a Job Fair at the District Admin Building - 320 W 24th

• Wednesday: 12n-3p
• Thursday: 9a-12n

Today, we talk with Linda Schaap about why HPS is a great place to work!

Tom DeGraaf from the Nolan Kramer Agency of Farm Bureau Insurance presents a $2500 check to Holland Middle School Principal Rene Bair and Shyah Harris (8th-Grade STEM Student) to help provide more options for students/families dealing with food scarcity.

The League of Women Voters hosted a Candidate Forum on Thursday, October 6, 7-8:30pm at Holland Middle School. Voters had the opportunity to meet candidates running for School Board.  Candidates answered questions during the forum.  Watch the video.

It's National School Lunch Week 2022! See all the fun ways you can join us in celebrating!

Conferences start this week!

• K-5 Conferences: October 11, 19, and 20
• 6-12 Conferences: October 13, 18, and 20

Half Day of School on October 20!  Learn more about conferences at your school:

We're hiring on-the-spot! Wednesday, October 12 |12n-3p and Thursday, October 13 | 9a-12n at the District Admin Building - 320 W 24th St.

This week, we talk with OCSN Reps Lauren Gray and Mallory Timmer about the Power H Shop, a new resource available to all HPS Families.

A grand Opening Open House for the Power H Shop will be held on Wedenesday, October 5, 4-6pm at Longfellow School (24th and State).

3rd-grade students at West enjoy non-fiction reading and a treat.

Baer is among just 34,000 commended students in the nation who are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. 

The Holland OCSN and Pathways to Potential Team is hosting an Open House for the Power H Shop on Wednesday, October 5th, from 4-6 pm. All Holland Public Families are welcome!

The Power H Shop is an initiative to support families experiencing crisis or financial hardship, by providing free household items through a dignified retail setting, and thus alleviating a family's financial hardship. 

Holland Hospital is excited to invite all students, families, friends and faculty to participate in the 2022 School Nurse Fun Run on Thu, Sep 29 at Holland West Elementary School. 

Students and families from around the City of Holland will participate in the 10th Annual School Nurse Fun Run on Thursday at West Elementary… This week we're talking about this great event and program with Holland Public Schools!

Blanca Astua has children at HLA, HMS and HHS.  She's been appointed to Governor Whitmer's first-ever Michigan Parents' Council.

• Thank you for serving HPS families and families of students around the state of Michigan!

Celebrate Homecoming 2022 | September 26 - October 1

If your family has not yet applied, please do so today.  Applications need to be completed by Friday, Sept 30. For more information, call 616.494.2245

What's Up!? The kids in the DHH program are wrapping up Deaf Awareness Week with some more ASL words you can use in a conversation today!

Congratulations to Yani Marin!! She finished her last classes at HVRT today and becomes the first member of the Class of 2023 to graduate. #HPSProud

It's Deaf Awarenss Week.  The students from our DHH program want to teach you a few ASL signs you can use in a conversation today!

Upcoming parenting skills education classes with Arbor Circle.

• Just for Dads
• Engaging Kids in Discipline
• Nuturing Parent Programs

To register, email Nikki Reenders-Arens or call 616-745-9511.

Albert, Ati, and Jacob have today’s ASL words to help celebrate #DeafAwarenessWeek #HPSProud

This week, we talk with Student Senate Communications Director Eva Whiteman about all the fun plans for Homecoming 2022!

Walters in the top 1% of all Seniors nationwide in the National Merit Scholarship program.

It's Deaf Awareness Week and kids and staff from our DHH Program are celebrating with a daily vocabulary lesson!

Wednesday, September 21, 12n-3:30pm

At our last Job Fair, FOUR new HPS employees were hired on the spot! If you missed out on that last Job Fair - here's another chance to start working with the great kids at Holland Public Schools!

We are hiring:

• Instructional Assistants
• Bus Drivers
• Substitute Teachers
• Substitute Secretaries
• Food Servers

Video from the Board of Education Meeting on 9/19/22.

It's Deaf Awareness Week/Month. Every day this week, the kids from the DHH program will share an ASL Vocabulary lesson. Today, Chase, Caydence, and Aria talk about places around school!

Chase, Michael, Tennie and the rest of the kids in the DHH program at HPS invite you to celebrate #DeafAwarenessMonth by learning some new words in sign language.

This week we talk with HLA Principal Iliana about how HPS will kickoff a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month on Friday night!

Liebbe, Caydence, Aria, and the rest of the kids in the DHH program at West invite you to celebrate #DeafAwarenessMonth by learning some new words in sign language.

HPS will host a Job Fair today to hire support staff.  It will be held at the District Administration Building on 24th St. from 9-11:30am and 1-4pm.

Dutch Football will play two more regular season games before ending their regular season on September 16.

Friday, September 16, 6:30pm at the HHS Varsity Football celebrate the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. During the football game on September 16, we will celebrate with special music, dance, food trucks, and a march of the flags from Latin countries. Come celebrate with us!

Sunday, September 18 | The Ravines in Saugatuck 

988 is the three-digit, nationwide phone number to connect directly to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Cruz is one of only 62,000 students from across the country to earn academic honors from the College Board’s National Recognition Programs! 

This week we talk with Student Senate President Libby Lefebre about all the great things happening at Holland High School.

On the spot hiring! Wednesday, September 7

• 9-11:30am
• 1-4pm

At District Administrationn Building | 320 W. 24th St

This week, we talk with students, teachers, principals, and parents about what has them excited as we start a new school year!

Bus route information is available for all students on your Parent Portal account. 

For students with a delayed start time on Wednesday (Grades 7, 8, 10, 11, and 12), please be at your bus stop 45-minutes prior to the start of the school day:

• HMS students be at Bus Stop at 11:30am
• HHS students be at Bus Stop at 11:45am

On Wednesday, August 24, students will have the following schedule:

• K-5th Grade: 8:30am-3:36pm
• 6th Grade: 7:30-10:35am
• 7th and 8th Grade: 12:15-2:42pm
• 9th Grade: 7:45-10:50am
• 10th-12th Grade: 12:30-2:55pm

Good news and bad news in the school lunchrooms for 2022-23.

• Good: Breakfast and Lunch will be served int he Cafeteria!
• Bad: Beginning this year, students will once again be charged for school lunch.

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

• For K-12 families who have NOT completed online registration OR who need assistance with Parent Portal updates, academic counseling, or paying fees.
• Assistance with Parent Portal registration is also available at each school (excluding HMS) and district Admin building from 8-3:30pm.

As everyone gets ready for the first day of school (Wednesday August 24), we talk with Superintendent Nick Cassidy in the first episode of season 4 for the HPSPodcast!

HPS Families who need transportation to and/or from school need to request bussing from the Transportation Department.

The first day of school is Wednesday, August 24!

JEFFERSON | HLA | HOLLAND HEIGHTS | WEST

• Full Day | 8:30am - 3:36pm
• Half Day | 8:30am - 11:35am

HOLLAND MIDDLE SCHOOL

• Full Day | 7:30am-2:42pm
• Half Day | 7:30-10:35am

HOLLAND HIGH SCHOOL

• Full Day | 7:45am-2:55pm
• Half Day | 7:45-10:50am

Did you get the Summer Mailing in your mailbox this week?

School starts in just over three weeks (Wednesday, August 24), and we are still missing important information for your student.

Demetrius Lake, Class of 2017, talks about the Return to the Dome Alumni game on August 7.

This week we talk with Mallory Timmer, OCSN Coordinator at West Elementary.

Sunday August 7 in the Dome.

• Holland v. HC at 4:30
• Holland v. WO at 6:30

All proceeds from this game will help eliminate barriers for student athletes to play.

There are several leadership positions open on the HPS PTO for the upcoming school year.

We love when HPS alumni come back as volunteers! 

HPS is teaming up with the ODC Network to provide experiences and lessons beyond the classroom to help students learn and grow. The program will focus on academic subjects in a way that helps kids make sense of the world around them. Students will experience:

• Exploration that ties core curriculum to their surroundings
• Regular visits from ODC experts
• Learning experiences at local parks and nature preserves
• Developing confidence through a love for learning

This tuition-free program will start in the Fall of 2022. All students Kindergarten thru 2nd Grade can now enroll!

Need help with enrolling a student for 2022-23 school year during the summer? Please visit our District Administration offices at 320 W. 24th

• Monday-Thursday | 8:30-4p
• Friday | 8:30-3:30p
• Call 616.494.2000

This week we talk with GMB Engineer Ben Perdock about the progress of Build2021 Bond Projects.

  HHS Vocal Dimensions

This week, we talk about Nature-Based Education with Bob Wandel from the ODC Education Network, Holland Heights Principal Kevin Derr, and Superintendent Nick Cassidy.

We invited Holland Alum Diamante Balcazar (Class of 2021) to come visit Jefferson Elementary, where he attended school as a boy.

Holland Public Schools is proud to partner with Hope College to launch the region’s first Teacher Preparation Early College Program! 

This week we talk with Holland Early College Director, Andrea Mehall and HEC Counselor Dana Loveland about a new partnership that will benefit students who hope to become a teacher someday.

• Contact Andrea: 616-494-2200
• Contact Dana: 616.494.2270

EVERYONE is invited to help harvest the fruits, veggies and plants at the HMS Greenhouse

• Mondays, 6-7pm at Holland Middle School

Meet new administrators at Jefferson Elementary, Holland High, Holland Middle School, and District Administration offices.

This week we talk with Athletic Director Blake Muller about Summer Sports Camps and more!

Thank you to our OCSN Coordinators for this list of fun family activities and summer resources.

Holland Heights Elementary is partnering with the Outdoor Discovery Center Education Network to provide kids with a TUITION-FREE Nature-Based Learning Experience that will help them learn, read, and grow.

• Enrollment is now open for every students/families in the Holland-area.

Children are able to come to any of our Meet Up and Eat Up locations to enjoy a free meal. No registration is required.

Join the coaches and staff of Holland High Sports programs to learn fundamentals and improve on skills.

This week we talk with HPS Superintendent Nick Cassidy about his plans for Summer "Break".

EVERYONE is welcome to come to get a bag of produce grown in our Greenhouse and garden beds. Amount and type of produce available varies by week. 

• MONDAYS 6-7pm during the summer

Registering your student for the 2022-2023 school year is as easy as updating/reviewing your Parent Portal account.  Be sure that you update:

• Contact information
• Health information for student
• Transportation Needs for next year

This information will help us determine staffing needs for next year, make classroom assignments, build bus routes and more.  Thank you for helping prepare for next school year!

Discover all the ways Holland Public Schools is right for you and your family!

Holland Public Schools supports our LGBTQ community. #HPSPride

 Jodi Ozimek has been selected as the Michigan New Coach of the Year by the Michigan District of the National Speech and Debate Association. 

Please help us welcome in Mason Theile as the next Boys Varsity Basketball Coach!

HHS Students practice mindfulness through movement. 

This week, we share student Commencement speeches from  Co-Valedictorian Greta VanZetten.

Graduates Holle Lo and Student Senate President Riley Gainey.

Melania Rocha introduces Commencement Speaker Mitch deBoer

Important information for parents or guardians of student’s eligible for Free and Reduced Lunch at Holland Public Schools.

Every student enrolled in Kindergarten at Holland Public Schools earns a FREE summer scholarship to Ready For School!

• Ready For School Camp Dates: July 11 - August 5 (Monday through Friday)

Happy Memorial Day from the Holland Middle School Bands and all of us here at HPS!

Due to the early announcement of term expiration, the Holland Public Schools Board of Education is seeking a candidate to fill the board seat of Mike McKay. The newly appointed Trustee will serve from the date of appointment, anticipated to be July 1, 2022, through the certification of the general election on November 8, 2022.

HPS works with public safety officials to provide all students and staff with powerful learning opportunities in safe, secure, and predictable environments.

We just received this great Thank  You email from an audience member at High School Musical this weekend.

All incoming 9th grade students (and other prospective students) and their families are invited to explore Holland High School. 

• Tuesday, May 31, 6-7:30pm

For nearly four decades, The Detroit News has saluted a group of Michigan’s best and brightest high school students in the spring of their senior year. Holland Valedictorian Greta VanZetten was named among the Outstanding Graduates this year.

Follow A.D. Blake Muller as he visits practice to hand out year-end hardware for well-deserving athletes from the Class of 2022!

Did you know? Since 2020, 27 HPS students earned the seal of bi-literacy: 30 awards and 8 languages in addition to English. 13 of the awards were earned by the Class of 2022! 

We're all in this together!

• Thursday May 19, 7pm
• Friday May 20, 7pm
• Saturday May 21, 2pm
• Saturday May 21, 7pm
• Sunday May 22, 2pm

Holland Senior Isaac Jekel is fulfilling his dream of having an art show at a public gallery.

• Artist Meet & Greet Saturday, May 21 from 4-6p at J. Petter Gallery in Douglas, MI

Isaac has been diligently prepping over 50 works for display and for sale.

The Holland High School Theatre Department presents High School Musical May 19-22!  This week, we talk with a few of the stars of the show!

To celebrate African American History, fifth grade students at Jefferson participated in a writing contest sponsored by the I Am Academy. Students picked a famous African American and completed a research report including information about the impact the individual had on the world. We had four winners, each receiving a $50 gift card. Winners include Nilma Garcia Ramos, Louie Orme, Nola Wade, and Langdyn Grigg. 

A snapshot of COVID positive cases and quarantines at Holland Public Schools.

• While the district will continue to collect this weekly COVID data, this dashboard will NOT be published on a weekly basis UNLESS positive cases increase significantly in our facilities.

We are excited to present our spring concerts for you on May 18 & 19 at Holland West Elementary.

There will be two concerts each evening.

• 3rd grade classes at West and Heights Elementary - Wednesday, May 18, 6pm
• 5th grade classes at West and Heights Elementary - Wednesday, May 18, 7pm
• 3rd grade classes at HLA and Jefferson Elementary - Thursday, May 19, 6pm
• 5th grade classes at HLA and Jefferson Elementary - Thursday, May 19, 7pm

This week we talk with Bob Wandel from the ODC Education Network and Superintendent Nick Cassidy about the future of nature-based learning at Holland Heights.

ALL athletes entering 6th-12th grade competing in sports need a sports physical dated AFTER APRIL 15, 2022 for the 2022-2023 school year.

• May 25, 2022 Time: 6-8pm (you must be in-line by 7:30pm) 
• Holland Hospital Family Medicine Office 904 Washington Ave Ste 210
• $20 per athlete

Athletes who participate in this event will receive a FREE sports pass for athletic events - issued in the fall.

In this week's podcast, we take you back to the year-end celebration for the graduates of Holland Early College.

Forensics Team competes at the Michigan Interscholastic Forensics Association State Festival

Saturday May 7, 9am-1pm at First Reformed Church, Holland - 630 State Street

• $5 Seedling | Spend $20, Get a FREE seedling

HPS Students (grades 1-5) are invited to participate in the Tulip Time KinderParade on Thursday May 12.

• If your planning on your child walking in the parade, you must fill out the form below by Monday, May 2.

All 5th grade students and parents interested in finding out more about the instrumental music program are invited to attend a very important meeting on May 17, 7:00PM at Holland Middle School. Contact Mr. Reikow or Mr. Grapis for more information.

The Holland 8th Grade Orchestra came home with 19 1st division medals from the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Solo and Ensemble Festival held at Northpointe Christian Schools last Saturday April 18, 2022.

At Holland Public Schools, teachers like to say “Every Student, Every Day”. This week we talk with a group of students who are saying Thank You to those teachers.

There are a limited number of openings in our Two-Way Bilingual Immersion program at Holland Language Academy for the 2022-2023 school year.  

This week we talk with Donna Lowry from Ready For School about Kindergarten Readiness Camp.

Congratulations to our band and orchestra students who participated in the Michigan School Band and Orchestra State Solo and Ensemble Festival.

The first day of School for 2022-2023 is Wednesday, August 24!

Helpful resources for helping students cope with unsettling current events.

HHS Senior, Tori Lynch has received the Scholastic American Vision National Gold Medal Award for her mixed media submission titled, 'Remember'.  This is a HUGE honor, and a first in HHS history!  Lynch is invited to New York in June for the final awards at Carnegie Hall.  She's also eligible for scholarships up to $10,000.  

• Friday, May 6 | 4-7pm at Holland Language Academy, 461 VanRaalte
• Saturday, May 7 | 9-12pm at Holland Language Academy, 461 VanRaalte

For HPS students, Grades 1-5, marching in the Kinderparade on Thursday, May 12.

This week we introduce you to the newest member of the staff at Holland Middle School:  Meet Shimmy.

Because the Tulip Time Festival has reduced the number of parades during the week, we are adjusting our schedule to better match their new parade schedule.

• Wednesday, May 11 is now a FULL DAY of school for all HPS students and Staff.
• Thursday, May 12 is a HALF DAY of school  -  The KinderParade is scheduled for this day.
• Friday, May 13 is now a HALF DAY of school - This is the RAIN DAY for the KinderParade.  Even if it doesn't rain on Thursday, students will still have a HALF DAY of school on Friday.

All three days are FULL DAYS for HPS STAFF.

Students in Ms McFarland's K class learned this poem in ASL for Deaf History Month.

HPS will work with Outdoor Discovery Center to develop Nature-based Learning at Holland Heights Elementary. MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON!

During the month of March, we celebrate Women's History Month by honoring the women who lead Holland Public Schools. This week we talk with 3rd Grade Teacher Julie Mishoe from Jefferson Elementary.   Listen to the Podcast or watch the video!

Middle School STEM Teacher Bill Boerman in the running for 2022 Michigan Teacher of the Year Award.

#HPSProud of these students who have been chosen for the Promise Scholarship from the Community Foundation of Holland/Zeeland Area

• LayRay Paw (nominated by the Careerline Tech Center)
• Isaak Nguyen- HPS
• Flor Hannah Quinones Sanchez- HPS
• Diego Felix-Trejo (dually nominated by HPS and Latin Americans United for Progress)
• Amy Pedraza (nominated by Latin Americans United for Progress)

FINAL Results of the PTO Read-A-Thon:

• Total minutes Read across the District: 245,672 minutes
• Total amount raised across the District: $28,026.62

Jefferson wins the Polar Patrol Truck on May 3rd.

Thank you for encouraging kids to read and supporting your PTO!

#HPSProud of our ASL Interpreter, Kaleigh Smith for providing a way for our DHH students/families to enjoy the Vocal Dimensions show this weekend!

Robotics team wins Spirit Award.

During Women's History Month, HPS is honoring women who lead in the district. 

Lanada Avinger is the Principal of Jefferson Elementary. Ms. Avinger reflects leadership and the impact she's having on Holland Public Schools.

Vocal Dimensions is back with their Spring Show!

• March 25 - 7pm
• March 26 - 2pm
• March 26 - 7pm

Holland High School - PAC | $10/Students & $15/Adults ($12 and $17 at the door). 

Deaf History Month is March 15 - April 15.  

• Students studying ASL (American Sign Language) at Holland High School hosted a ASL Fashion Show 
• Students in our DHH Program (Deaf/Hard of Hearing) visited class rooms at HLA
• Dean Stevenson visited with students at JEF

During the month of March, we celebrate Women's History Month by honoring the women who lead Holland Public Schools. This week we talk with Principal Iliana Vasquéz from Holland Language Academy.  Listen to the Podcast or watch the video!

Impressive showing for 8th Graders Leila Sundararajan and Wilson Lin.

• Raven Manczak
• Amelia Clark
• Andy Gruber
• Corey Ross
• Simeon Carter
• Olivia Bernal
• Syndney McFarland
• Levi Harpe
• Kinsley McGraw
• Mic Morris

Vote for HMS students by liking the artwork on the Spectrum Health Zeeland community hospital Facebook Page.

• Thursday 7pm -$5 tickets for HPS Students and Staff
• Friday 7pm
• Saturday 2pm
• Saturday 7pm

During Women's History Month, HPS is honoring women who lead in the district. 

Riley Gainey is the Student Senate President, the Drum Major of the Marching Band, and the Captain of the Varsity Soccer team. With an introduction from Band Director Bethany VanOss, Riley reflects leadership and the impact she's having on Holland Public Schools.

Senior, Mariah Depoy has qualified to attend the National Speech and Debate tournament! She placed first in a recent regional event and has been invited to compete among the nation's best! The National tournament will be held in St. Louis in June.

Grand Rapids Gold mascot, Buckets visited students at Jefferson and West today to encourage and challenge them to read 20 minutes every day! Students who accept the challenge and log their hours can win prizes, including the chance to win a family “flex ticket” to a Grand Rapids Gold Game. The Grand Rapids Gold Elevate Reading Program is a partnership with Gentex!

Every student enrolled in Kindergarten at Holland Public Schools earns a FREE scholarship to Ready For School's Kindergarten Readiness Camp!

• Mondays-Thursdays | July 11- August 4 at West Elementary

Ready For School Kickoff Event on June 28, 5:30-7pm

Middle School Students to sell benches to benefit Ukrainian refugees.  Watch their story that aired on Fox-17 this week.

Holland Board of Education to enter contract negotiations with Interim Superintendent Nick Cassidy.

Member of the Holland Schools Board of Education are seeking your input following the Candidate Open House and Interview on March 16, 2022.

During the month of March, we celebrate Women's History Month by honoring the women who lead Holland Public Schools. This week we talk with Arletha Banks, Head Chef for HPS Nutrition Services.  Listen to the Podcast or watch the video!

VOCALS:LIVE is March 24 and 25 at 7pm | March 26 at 2pm and 7pm at Holland High School PAC.

• 1/2 off Tickets for Students for Thursday
• ASL Interpreter on Thursday

Wednesday, March 16

• Open House at 3:30pm | Meet Superintendent Candidate Nick Cassidy
• Interview at 5pm| Board members will interview Candidate Nick Cassidy

The interview will be conducted in-person. The meeting will be broadcast via Zoom at the link listed below.  Please attend in person to participate in the public comment portion of the meeting.

During Women's History Month, HPS is honoring women who lead in the district. 

Hendrina Cupery runs the School Nurse program at HPS through a partnership with Holland Hospital. With an introduction from School Mental Health Care Manager Lis Gort, Hendrina reflects on her leadership role at HPS and the impact she's having on the district.

Tuesday March 15, 6:30pm at HMS

• Learn about CURRICULUM and CLASS SCHEDULING 
• For parents of incoming 6th-grade students

The HHS Jazz Band Brings Home Division I Ratings

Congratulations to the Holland Middle School Band for achieving a Division 2, "Excellent" Rating for their performance at the MSBOA District X Band & Orchestra Festival at Grandville High School.

During the month of March, we celebrate Women's History Month by honoring the women who lead Holland Public Schools. This week we talk with Holland High School Principal Katie Pennington.  Listen to the Podcast or watch the video!

The Award Winning Holland High School Orchestras celebrate 1st Division marking this year the 27th year of 1st Division Ratings under Mr. John Reikow as the director of Orchestras of Holland Public Schools.

After a review of the stakeholder responses, followed by considerable discussion, trustees of the Board of Education have decided to move forward with an internal search for the next Superintendent of HPS. 

March 24 and 25 at 7pm | March 26 at 2pm and 7pm at Holland High School PAC.

• 1/2 off Tickets for Students for Thursday
• ASL Interpreter on Thursday

National School Breakfast Week celebrates the importance of a nutritious school breakfast in fueling students for success. This year’s theme, “Take Off with School Breakfast,” reminds parents and stakeholders that a healthy school breakfast helps ensure students’ academic success in school so they can “take off” and reach their goals.

Register for Holland Heights Summer School at ODC by April 22!

During Women's History Month, HPS is honoring women who lead in the district. 

Andrea Mehall is the Assistant Principal at Holland High School and the Director of Holland Early College. With an introduction from Holland Early College Teacher Rakendra Davis, Andrea reflects on her leadership role at HPS and the impact she's having on students.

Congratulations to Bella Voce and Cantus for representing Holland High School Choirs well at MSVMA District Choral Festival!

#1 Women Lead HPS.

During the month of March, we celebrate Women's History Month by honoring the women who lead Holland Public Schools. This week we talk with leaders: Ellie Zomer and Greta Van Zetten; MHSAA Scholar Athlete Award winners.  Listen to the Podcast or watch the video!

MSU Extension News - March 2022

This month we will honor the women who lead HPS by featuring many of them in online content. Students will also learn about women leaders who have had a lasting impact on our community and nation. 

After new guidance from the CDC, students and staff will no longer be required to wear a mask while riding an HPS bus.

HHS Bands Achieve Division I Superior Ratings

We'll see several Phase 1 projects begin soon. Meanwhile, planning and design is underway at Holland Middle School for projects that will begin in the Summer of 2023.

Each Advisory class at Holland Middle School was challenged to create a Black History Month flag. Each flag represents past, present and future heroes and black culture.. The flags are now hanging in the hallway for everyone to see!

As COVID restrictions change, hot lunches will be phased back in at West, HLA, Holland Heights, and Jefferson!