The Grand Haven Area Public Schools Board of Education’s October 23 workshop focused on student learning, district finances, and progress on the district’s Strategic Plan. All motions presented during the meeting passed.
Student Learning and Learner Traits
Instructional Services presented the district’s 2026-27 learning goals and assessment information. Goals include growth in reading and math for all K-8 students and keeping high school students on track for graduation.
The presentation also highlighted GHAPS’ placement among the top three of 31 regional districts for four consecutive years in a comparison of academic performance rankings with economic disadvantage rankings. This measure provides context for student achievement beyond overall test scores.
Board members reviewed how schools are incorporating the district’s six Learner Traits: collaboration, critical thinking, curiosity, communication, empathy, and resilience. A new website resource helps families understand these traits and expectations at different grade levels.
Annual Financial Audit
Maner Costerisan, an independent accounting firm, presented the district’s 2025-26 audit. The district received a clean audit, confirming that its financial statements fairly and accurately present its finances. Auditors also reviewed the procedures in place to manage and safeguard district funds, finding no significant concerns.
The Board approved accepting the audit into district records.
School Safety and Mental Health
The Board approved a resolution authorizing GHAPS to receive Section 31aa state funding to support school safety and student mental health initiatives.
Strategic Plan and Bond Information
The superintendent’s update outlined progress on the district’s Strategic Plan, including work on student learning, facilities planning, resource allocation, and student behavior supports.
The update also highlighted bond information resources, including videos explaining the proposal, financial details, and long-term facilities plan. Community members can learn more at ghaps.org/bond.
Board Planning and Governance
Following a second reading, the Board adopted the updated Board Operating Procedures & Orientation Guide, designed to help new trustees understand board responsibilities and current practices.
Board members also discussed draft 2027 governance and meeting calendars, board organization, and superintendent goals. The calendars are scheduled for consideration at the January 11, 2027 organizational meeting.
Student Representatives
Student representatives celebrated a successful homecoming week, including some of the best hallway and door decorations in several years. They also highlighted the high school’s “Do You Have a Plan?” Week and juniors’ and seniors’ participation in Boomerang, an event connecting students with local career opportunities.
Representatives connected with Lakeshore Middle School’s student council and shared updates about new ping-pong and foosball tables and a switch to three lunch periods to give students more space during lunch. They are also discussing outreach to White Pines students.
The report also celebrated the soccer team’s district win. The team will face Traverse City West at Forest Hills Northern on Tuesday, October 27.
