Sunday, January 11, 2026
Welcome Back!
Welcome back, HLA families, and happy new year! This is our first school newsletter of the year. The newsletter will continue to be our primary way to share important updates, reminders, and upcoming events, so we encourage families to review the information that applies to them and refer back as needed.
We are currently in the middle of benchmark testing, and our students have been working hard to show what they know. In addition, our 3rd–5th grade students had a wonderful opportunity to go ice skating, generously sponsored by LG Chem. It was beautiful to see so many first-time skaters take risks, lean on one another for support, and get back up after falls and bumps. Through this experience, students learned so much about perseverance, courage, and themselves.
Thank you, LG Chem, for supporting our students and making this meaningful experience possible. Thank you, families, for your continued partnership as we begin this next chapter of the school year.
5th grade Parents - Holland Middle School
Mark Your Calendar for…
HMS Step-Up to Middle School Night: Explore classes and clubs, tour the building, and meet Holland Middle School staff. Families will attend an information presentation and rotate through fun, interactive activity stations that highlight life at HMS.
Step Up to Holland Middle School | Thursday, January 29 | 6:00–8:00 PM
Thank you so much for your support in helping our 5th grade families prepare for the transition to middle school. Jason Craner will also be bringing some posters to buildings to display and he has featured the information on the website. Please let me know if you have any questions.
HLA Nacho Average Staff - December
At HLA, we believe in honoring the people who make our school a place where students and staff thrive. Each month, we recognize a Nacho Average Staff Member who exemplifies our P.O.D.E.R values and contributes to our building goals.
All HLA staff members are eligible to be nominated, and the selected colleague receives our traveling trophy, school-wide recognition, and a $50 gift card.
Our December staff member is Zuri Lepper, a third-grade teacher. Although she is new to HLA this year, she brings a wealth of experience in Spanish Immersion education. We are truly grateful to have her as part of our team.
Kindergarten 2026
Can you believe it? Your little one is ready for Kindergarten, Class of 2026!
Kindergarten & Preschool Enrollment Night
Tour classrooms, meet teachers, and say hello to your principal!
Holland Language Academy
Wednesday, January 28 | 5:00–7:00 p.m.
HLA Specific Important Dates:
• Wednesday, January 28 – Sibling applications due
• Wednesday, February 11 – Kindergarten 2026 applications due to enter the lottery
• Wednesday, February 18 – Lottery held (if needed)
If you have any questions, please email principal Iliana ivasquez@hollandpublicschools.org or call Mrs. Huerta in the front office (616) 494-2600.
Power H Impact Awards
Help us share the stories of staff members who are having an incredible impact on students and families at Holland Language Academy. Nominate someone for the Power H IMPACT Award here.
Red Note Raffle
We appreciate you taking the time to stay connected with our school community. As a thank-you, we’re giving away a $50 gift card to one lucky family!
📅 Deadline to enter: Wednesday, January 14 at 12:00 p.m.
🏆 Winner announced: In the Red Note on Sunday, January 18, 2026
Please fill out the form below to enter the raffle. One entry per family.
Enter here.
Total Trek Quest & Girls on the Run
Total Trek Quest and Girls on the Run are enrichment programs for our 3rd–5th grade students that combine structured lessons with physical training to build confidence, character, teamwork, and healthy habits. Throughout the season, students participate in guided lessons and running practice, all leading up to the exciting culmination of completing a 5K run.
We are currently looking for volunteer coaches to help lead and support these programs for our 3rd–5th grade students. No prior coaching experience is required—training and materials are provided.
If you are interested or have questions, please reach out to Kim Stevenson kstevens@hollandpublicschools.org
Yoga Instructor Needed – Mindful Monday (Health Week)
We’re looking for a yoga instructor to support Mindful Monday as part of our Health Week. If you or someone you know is interested, please reach out.
Monday, January 26 | 8:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
20–25 minutes per class | 13 classes total
If you or someone you know is interested, please email us. ivasquez@hollandpublicschools.org
Class of 2026
The parents are raising funds to support the Class of 2026 and provide a fun, supervised, safe, and memorable graduation night. You can help in two ways:
1) Purchase a ticket to our biggest fundraiser, Bubbles & Bites, on Wednesday, March 4 at Port 393, featuring dessert bites and exciting raffle prizes.
2) Donate a raffle item.
All proceeds go directly toward our seniors’ graduation night. Thank you for supporting the Class of 2026 by attending, donating, or both!