Board approves 15.5% increase to staff health insurance premiums for 2026–27

The Grand Rapids Public Schools board approved a 15.5% increase in health insurance premiums for the district’s self-insured plans for the 2026–27 plan year, effective July 1, 2026.

Casey presented the fringe benefits committee recommendation following analysis with consultant OneDigital. "The committee is recommending a 15.5% increase in premiums across both of the health plans for the 26–27 plan year," Casey said, noting the increase is intended to cover projected claims and administrative costs and help rebuild the plan’s reserve.

Board members asked whether the 15.5% figure matched consultant expectations; staff said OneDigital indicated a similar renewal level would be needed to cover claims, and that lower increases would draw on reserves. The board discussed whether this rate fell in line with public-sector renewals; staff said renewals professionals were reporting a wide range this year, from single-digit increases up into the 20s, and that the district has generally trended below market in recent years.

The board clarified that fully insured rates for retirees 65 and older (outside the district’s self-insured plan) are set separately and not part of this action; the district’s stop-loss protection for high-cost claims was described as $300,000.

After discussion and a motion and second, the board approved the premium increase by voice vote. Staff said the increase will be implemented July 1, 2026.