Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation

We exist to remove barriers and enrich the education of ALL Grand Rapids Public Schools students. grpsf.org

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation is about more than just raising money. We identify and strengthen partnerships and engage the community to use their resources to support Grand Rapids Public Schools students. Since 1993, we’ve raised money to provide tools and enrichment experiences for the students of Grand Rapids Public Schools. We currently invest our energy and funds in the following

08/30/2024

🗓️📚 Don't miss out! The application deadline is approaching fast. All applications must be submitted by September 2nd. Ready to learn more or apply? Visit our website at: https://grpsf.org/teacher-supply-award/

At the GRPS Foundation, we’re all about partnering with our amazing community to support the incredible work they do every year. The dedication to GRPS students is deeply appreciated!

We’re happy to announce that Shipt has generously donated $20,000 to help 200 Grand Rapids Public Schools teachers purchase much-needed school supplies for the year. Want to be eligible? Just fill out the Teacher Supply Award form through the GRPS Foundation using the link below. 200 teachers will be randomly selected to receive a $100 virtual Shipt e-gift card!

Don’t miss out! Submit your application by Monday, September 2. Awardees will be notified electronically. Apply today: https://bit.ly/470bvyr 🎒 ✏️ 📏

Shipt Donation to Grand Rapids Public Schools - West Michigan's Morning News | iHeart 08/29/2024

Check out the latest podcast featuring our President and CEO, Stephanie Andrews! 🎙️Get the inside scoop on our exciting partnership with Shipt and learn how you can support our amazing teachers. Tune in to West Michigan's Morning News Podcast now for all the details! 🎧

Shipt Donation to Grand Rapids Public Schools - West Michigan's Morning News | iHeart Stephanie Andrews, CEO of Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation joins WMMN to discuss a donation to Grand Rapids Public Schools that will give 200 $100 Shipt gift cards to teachers.

2024 Scholar Impact Report | Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation 08/28/2024

🌟 Very exciting news at the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation! With the new school year commencing, we're thrilled to announce our ambitious new goals. Check out our Impact Insights to dive into our journey and see what's in store for this academic year! 📚

2024 Scholar Impact Report | Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation We are dedicated to transforming education and enriching the lives of students and educators in the GRPS district.

08/23/2024

At the GRPS Foundation, we’re all about partnering with our amazing community to support the incredible work they do every year. The dedication to GRPS students is deeply appreciated!

We’re happy to announce that Shipt has generously donated $20,000 to help 200 Grand Rapids Public Schools teachers purchase much-needed school supplies for the year. Want to be eligible? Just fill out the Teacher Supply Award form through the GRPS Foundation using the link below. 200 teachers will be randomly selected to receive a $100 virtual Shipt e-gift card!

Don’t miss out! Submit your application by Monday, September 2. Awardees will be notified electronically. Apply today: https://bit.ly/470bvyr 🎒 ✏️ 📏

Photos from Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation's post 08/20/2024

Yesterday was an absolute “blast” at the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame Golf Classic. Golfers had the opportunity to launch their golf ball out of the golf cannon, while also supporting GRPSF! Thank you to all who participated!

08/08/2024

🌟 Incredible news! Our brand new Scholar Impact Blog has officially launched on our website! Get ready to be inspired by incredible stories from GRPS teachers who are revolutionizing classroom education with the Teacher Innovation Fund! 🚀
https://grpsf.org/blog/?e-filter-0766479-category=teacher-innovation-fund

Reimagine GRPS with Us! 07/25/2024

Have you heard of Reimagine GRPS with Us? It is not just a catchy saying, it is an impactful practice Grand Rapids Public Schools is implementing. By investing $305 million in intentional updates, expanded opportunities for educational development, and intentional programming GRPS is improving schools and enhancing programming.

Learn more below!

Reimagine GRPS with Us! Website for Grand Rapids Public Schools

07/24/2024

Exciting craft project alert! Do you have any 32-ounce mason jars that you want to donate? We are accepting donations for our fun craft project. Email [email protected] to learn more! 🎨✨🌟

Photos from Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation's post 07/23/2024

Thanks to your support over the last two to three years, we've raised over $4M, with 85% of those funds going directly to program services.

Together, let's keep creating enriching experiences for our scholars and educators for years to come.

07/18/2024

And this is why we do it! This panel of GRPS alumni shared words of wisdom at our , discussing their experiences, offering advice, and highlighting their community involvement.

If this panel showed us anything, it's that our young scholars are truly the leaders of tomorrow. Invest in them now, and they might be on one of our panels in the coming years!

GRPS Foundation Press Release | Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation 07/17/2024

🎉 Exciting news! We're delighted to announce the appointments of Misti Smith Stanton and Monica Steimle App to our top leadership positions at the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation. Misti, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Mercantile Bank, will be our new board president, while Monica, Senior Vice President at Rockford Construction, will take on the role of vice president. Join us in congratulating them on their new roles!

GRPS Foundation Press Release | Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation The Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation is honored to announce two new appointments to its top leadership positions.

Planned Giving | Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation 07/11/2024

Have you made plans to contribute to the educational future of our scholars? By making a planned gift to the GRPS Foundation, you are investing in school trips, equal access to extracurricular involvement, and opportunities for educators to receive crucial classroom funding.

Learn more about expanding opportunities for the below!

Planned Giving | Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation GRPS FOUNDATION — General Planned Giving – Leave a Legacy THE SCHOLARS SOCIETY MAKE AN IMPACT, LEAVE A LEGACY HERE IN GRAND RAPIDS Founded in 1871, the Grand Rapids Public Schools has been shaping education for the youth of our community for over 125 years. As the City of Grand Rapids continues ...

07/10/2024

🌟 Exciting Opportunity Alert! 🌟 Join us on July 18th at our office as we gear up for our annual pop-up homecoming shops at GRPS high schools! It's going to be a blast! Click the link to learn more and sign up.

volunteersignup.org/A7RPT

Photos from Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation's post 07/09/2024

A few shots of our incredible band scholars from ! Raising funds to provide opportunities for the arts, sports, and experiential learning programs in the is a pivotal component of creating lifelong memories.

We are big fans of the arts programs here at GRPSF! What's your favorite extracurricular? Drop a comment below! 🎭 🎷 👇

District News 07/05/2024

Are you aware of the work that Grand Rapids Public Schools has committed to for the summer? In a 'Reimagine' Vlog early last month, GRPS Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby shared the busy summer of construction the GRPS community will be experiencing.

From new playgrounds and new parking lots to heating and cooling upgrades throughout the district we are excited for these improvements within our community.

Check out what is in store for GRPS educators and scholars!

District News Website for Grand Rapids Public Schools

JA Programs | Junior Achievement of Michigan Great Lakes 07/02/2024

Do you know a scholar looking to further their education? Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes offers a variety of opportunities for advancing real-world and academic skills. Discover the next learning adventure for a GRPS scholar you know today by visiting JA's programs below.

Do you know of supplemental learning experiences we should mention? Leave us a comment so we can share more pre-career growth opportunities with the !

JA Programs | Junior Achievement of Michigan Great Lakes Junior Achievement of Michigan Great Lakes provides training, materials, and support to bolster the chances for student success with JA programs. Explore local JA programming now!

06/24/2024

Did you know that this year alone we have served 15,600 students, 4500 individual schools, and raised $1,800,000? Working with the Grand Rapids area and securing our funding goals allows us to support music programs and experience the work of our incredible scholars much like this performance from our more recent !

Learn more on how to get involved with assisting us in school programs like music, sports, and teacher funding opportunities by visiting our website today: https://grpsf.org/

Photos from Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation's post 06/21/2024

Reflecting on our amazing time last month with scholars, educators, and community leaders! Sharing experiences across the school district and learning about GRPS's impact has truly inspired us to continue our mission of connecting intentional funding with the GRPS community for a robust experiential learning process.

Missed the action? Join us in creating lifelong memories for our scholars by donating today:https://grpsf.org/donate/

06/20/2024

We are truly grateful for your invaluable contributions during your years of service since 2017 as a board member. Your dedication has been instrumental in driving GRPSF's success forward. Although we bid farewell to Ruth Posthumus as a board member, we eagerly anticipate continuing our connection through different avenues. Her passion and advocacy for youth in Grand Rapids is inspiring.

06/13/2024

From an increase in graduates and a large turnout to GR Ottawa Hills High School new recording studio and a push for an official state insect, Grand Rapids Public Schools has been hard at work this past year.

We are honored to work within this amazing group of changemakers to raise, grow and steward funds and other community resources to support Grand Rapids Public Schools for the benefit of its students.

Check out a few of this years highlights from our year full of growth!

06/11/2024

With Grand Rapids Public Schools creatives using art as a form of expression, growth, and communication the district is home to talented individuals making an incredible impact within the community. With the support of and staff, we experience our scholars' work through art shows, school projects, and more.

Thank you and educators for bringing vibrancy and creative innovation to our classrooms!

06/07/2024

We are honored to recognize this year's Jean Hamilton Cope Teacher of the Year awardees Dominic Biolchini, from Kent Hills School, and Nicole Shilton from C.A. Frost Environmental Science Middle/High School!

Each work endlessly to connect wit their students by providing an open environment for growth in their scholars' educational journeys. These two have taken this past year by storm. We are so proud of you both!

06/05/2024

We are so grateful to our 2024 sponsors and happy to share we have raised a collective $192,000 for GRPS scholars! Our generous sponsors and Mindshare guests have brought us close to our $200,000 goal but we still need the support of our !

Join us in bridging our $8,000 gap in reaching our goal! Help us ensure every GRPS scholar has the resources and opportunities needed for their academic success.

Your support will provide impactful experiences for the future of our scholars and community when you donate today: https://grpsf.org/donate/

Photos from Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation's post 06/03/2024
Photos from Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation's post 05/29/2024

Getting ready for our 2024 Mindshare Gala tomorrow. Can’t wait! 💙🧡

05/28/2024

Are you joining us at 2024 Mindshare Gala this Thursday?

Your support makes a real difference in the lives of our students and helps to build a brighter future for our community. Grab your letterman jacket or sweater and lace up your snazziest sneakers for a night on the field with the GRPS Foundation. It’s a blast from the past you won’t want to miss!

05/23/2024

Mark your calendars because 2024 Mindshare Gala is just ONE week away! 🗓️✨

Get ready to immerse yourself in an evening of inspiration and collaboration as we open our doors at 6pm for the electrifying Houseman Happy Hour! 🍷🍻

Indulge in the finest wines from Fenn Valley and savor the brews from none other than City Built Brewing Company & Brewery Vivant at our open bar! 🥂🍺

Join us on May 30th and be part of the vibrant energy of Mindshare 2024! Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to connect and engage with fellow visionaries. See you there! 🎉

2024 Mindshare Volunteer Opportunities 05/21/2024

Volunteer Opportunity!

Are you looking to get involved with an unforgettable night dedicated to Grand Rapids Public Schools? Our annual 2024 Mindshare Gala takes place next Thursday, May 30th at 6:00 PM and we are on the lookout for additional volunteers to make this a night to remember! Curate event tables with centerpieces, welcome guests at our registration table, and celebrate the funds we raise to create more extracurricular opportunities for our .

Enjoy happy hour, a plated dinner, and our program filled with GRPS pride with a free ticket to Mindshare when you sign up to volunteer today.

Visit the link below for more information on volunteering for Mindshare!

2024 Mindshare Volunteer Opportunities Volunteer signup sheet

Mindshare | Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation 05/20/2024

🚨 Last Call Alert! 🚨

Don't miss out on the hottest ticket in town! 🔥 Join us for 2024 Mindshare Gala an unforgettable evening happening on May 30th at the historic Houseman Field! 🌟

Prepare to be inspired as we welcome Grand Rapids Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Leadriane Roby, along with the incredible Teachers of the Year! 🏆 Plus, dive into engaging discussions with current and former GRPS coaches during our insightful panel session.

This is your chance to be part of something truly special, where ideas collide and innovation thrives. ✨ But hurry, tickets are selling out fast! Secure your spot today and let's make memories together at Mindshare 2024! 🎟️

Grab your tickets now: https://grpsf.org/mindshare/

🎉

Mindshare | Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation Please join us for an evening of glamour and giving at this year's 2023 Mindshare Gala on May 10 at 6pm at GRPS University!

Photos from Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation's post 05/20/2024

Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy has been able to include flexible seating within their classroom/learning environment strategy! This was done with the help of our Teresa Weatherall Neal Principal's Fund grant.

These seating options allow a diverse scholar body to be more engaged and focused while giving voice and choice in how they experience the learning environment!

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Our Story

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation is about more than just raising money. We identify and strengthen partnerships and engage the community to use their resources to support Grand Rapids Public Schools students. Since 1993, the Foundation has made more than $20 million in grants to support programs and initiatives of GRPS to provide tools and enrichment experiences for the students of Grand Rapids Public Schools. We currently invest our energy and funds in the following priorities: Literacy, The Arts, Math Science & Technology, Environmental Education, and Physical Wellness.
OUR MISSION
To ensure that all Grand Rapids Public Schools students have the tools they need to learn, grow and thrive. The Grand Rapids Student Advancement Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization which exclusively raises funds for Grand Rapids Public Schools. Our purpose is to raise, grow and steward funds and other community resources to support the Grand Rapids Public Schools for the benefit of its students.

OUR VISION
The Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation exists solely to raise funds to provide the essential resources the students of GRPS need to learn, develop and thrive. We are determined to create an environment where no barriers to Grand Rapids Public Schools students exist, and reaching their full potential is realized.
OUR CORE VALUES
POSSIBILITY: We believe that every student has the potential to be an educated, self-directed and productive member of society.

PEOPLE: We believe in the Grand Rapids Public Schools- its students, teachers, support staff and leadership.

POTENTIAL: We believe that every child deserves meaningful educational experiences and opportunities to reach his/her highest potential.

PARTNERSHIP: We believe that the students and GRPS cannot do it alone and that through community support and partnerships, we can work together to ensure these opportunities for all students of Grand Rapids Public Schools.

Videos (show all)

2024 Mindshare Gala: GRPS Year Highlights
2024 Mindshare Gala | Art Class
We are honored to recognize this year's Jean Hamilton Cope Teacher of the Year awardees Dominic Biolchini, from Kent Hil...
Shoutout to LMCU, one of our amazing community partners for #Mindshare2023! We're so happy to be making a difference in ...
We're thrilled to have worked with Rockford Construction as one of our incredible community partners for #Mindshare2023....
Let's give a big shoutout to Kenyatta Brame, a City High School alumni from the class of '88! We take immense pride in K...
Join us in honoring Dave Custer, Ottawa Hills Alumni class of 65’! Dave Custer is the Founder and Owner of Custer and Fo...
Celebrating Our Distinguished Alumni! 🌟Join us in honoring Lisa Lowery, Ottawa Hills Alumni class of 89’. Dr. Lowery is ...
GRPS Foundation Mindshare 2023
Many Grand Rapids Public Schools Alumni, like Marshall Purnell, have done amazing things since their time in Grand Rapid...
Marshall Purnel - Foundations of the Future
Thank you for all who joined us today for our Foundation for the Future event. Your committment to our Grand Rapids Publ...

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125 Ottawa Avenue Northwest
Grand Rapids, MI
49503

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