The ISD 318 School Board meeting held on June 16, 2025, focused on several key agreements aimed at enhancing special education and mental health services within the Grand Rapids Area Schools.

One of the primary discussions revolved around three contracts with the IASC (Interagency Special Education Cooperative) that pertain to special education services for students with hearing impairments, autism, and physical impairments. Board members highlighted the importance of these collaborations, noting that they allow the district to employ full-time specialists rather than struggling to find part-time staff. The board unanimously approved these contracts, emphasizing the successful partnership and the equivalence in child counts for special education between the district and IASC.

Additionally, the board reviewed a contract with North Holmes for school-based mental health services. This partnership enables the provision of mental health support at minimal cost to the district, as North Holmes handles billing and seeks grants to cover any service gaps. The board acknowledged the effectiveness of this arrangement, which has been in place for several years, and discussed the importance of continuing to provide these essential services to students.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to enhancing educational support for students with special needs and mental health challenges, ensuring that resources are available to foster a supportive learning environment.