Grand Rapids Public Schools honors MLK contest winners and showcases student achievements

The Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) Board of Education meeting on February 10, 2025, highlighted the achievements of local students and the importance of community support in education. A key moment was the recognition of students who participated in a poetry contest inspired by Maya Angelou's work, "The Mask." The contest aimed to encourage students to reflect on privilege and social justice, with winners receiving prizes including an Apple iPad and tickets to the musical "Hamilton."

The event showcased the creativity of 185 submissions, with 46 students receiving honorable mentions, each awarded a $25 gift card to a local multicultural bookshop. The board expressed gratitude to the teachers who guided these young poets, emphasizing the role of educators in fostering talent and critical thinking.

In addition to the poetry contest, the meeting featured reports from student representatives. They shared updates on upcoming events, including a blood drive and the completion of WIDA testing at Union High School, which provided students with a break and opportunities to catch up on their studies.

The meeting also included heartfelt testimonials from students involved in the Sankofa STEM Academy and STEM Scholars Program. These students expressed their gratitude for the support they received, highlighting how the programs have enriched their educational experiences and inspired them to pursue their goals in STEM fields.

As part of the ongoing celebration of Black History Month, the Grand Rapids Public Museum will exhibit artwork from MLK scholars throughout February, further emphasizing the district's commitment to honoring diversity and promoting cultural awareness.

The meeting concluded with a motion to enter a closed session to discuss strategy negotiations related to collective bargaining, underscoring the board's ongoing efforts to address the needs of its staff and students. Overall, the discussions and recognitions during the meeting reflect a strong commitment to educational excellence and community engagement within the Grand Rapids Public Schools.