A Back To School Message From Superintendent Cassidy

Key Back-to-School Dates

• Open House – Tuesday, August 19 | 4–6 PM
• First Day of School – Thursday, August 21

From Unite to Thrive

Each year, HPS focuses on one of the district's Core Values:

• Diverse- We embrace,  value, and celebrate the qualities that make us unique and believe it is our collective responsibility to foster respect, a sense of belonging, and success that honors each individual.  
• United- We believe Holland Public Schools is the center of a thriving city, and it is our responsibility to unite the community around the success of ALL students.  
• Thrive- We provide an environment where students thrive through diverse and enriching opportunities that ignite their passion for learning and personal growth.
• Committed-  We have an unwavering commitment to providing state and nationally-recognized Academic, Athletic, and Arts programs.
• Honorable - We uphold and promote values of integrity, respect, honesty, and fairness through our policies and practices, demonstrating a commitment to ethical conduct and a positive reputation within our community.

Last year, our focus was UNITED—bringing the community together around the success of all students. This year, our theme is THRIVE—challenging ourselves and others to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. We have the tools in place—now we’re pushing forward in achievement, attendance, and school connections.

2025 Bond – Thank You, Holland!

We are incredibly grateful to the Holland community for its continued trust and support of Holland Public Schools.  Your support means we can complete Phase 2 of our 5-Year Facility Master Plan—an investment in our students, staff, and the future of our city.

Remaining Phase 1 Projects

• Holland Heights moves into new building – Fall 2026
• Holland West remodeled – Fall 2025–Spring 2027
• Elementary attendance boundaries redrawn – Spring 2026
• Jefferson Elementary split between Heights and West – Fall 2027

• Phase 2 Projects

  • Update Jefferson building for HLA – Fall 2028
  • Add a competition-ready football stadium (also for marching band)
  • Upgrade baseball & softball fields
  • Improve HVAC systems
  • Invest in transportation & technology

• Phase 2 Feedback Sessions will begin this fall—stay tuned for dates!

School Meals

Every HPS student will receive one free breakfast and one free lunch each school day through the Community Eligibility Program. We’re also part of 10 Cents a Meal, bringing fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables to our schools while supporting Michigan farmers. At HPS, student nutrition and wellness will always be a top priority.

Education Benefits Form – Please Complete

• Filling out the Education Benefits Form helps HPS access critical state and federal funding for all students.
• Even if your child gets free meals, this form still matters.
• Click here to Apply for Benefits

Student & Family Programs Books & Games

An hour of supervised reading, homework help, and games plus a free breakfast—one hour before school starts. Great for students, and for parents needing an earlier drop-off. Register at your school’s “Back to School” tab.

Thank you to our Community Partners

We’re proud to partner with:

• Boys & Girls Club
• Holland Recreation
• LAUP
• CASA
• I Am Academy
• Trio Upward Bound

Visit their websites or your school’s office for details on how to get involved.

Here’s to a safe, successful, and inspiring school year where each student will THRIVE.  

Superintendent Nick Cassidy