Our School - Ferry Elementary
About Ferry Elementary
At Ferry, we’re more than just a school—we’re a community that’s deeply committed to developing confident learners who grow into kind, compassionate, and responsible members of our community. Each of our students and staff members brings unique backgrounds and experiences to our school community, and we love celebrating what makes each of us special here. It creates a rich environment where our students and our staff learn from one another, not just in class, but in how to care for, respect, and support each other.
We’re proud of our long history—Ferry is the oldest school building in Grand Haven, originally built in 1913, and multiple generations of families have walked these halls over the years. After many years of serving children in our community, Ferry remains a place where strong relationships and meaningful learning go hand in hand.
We’re also fortunate to partner with many local businesses and organizations that help bring learning to life. Whether it’s through special classroom projects, hands-on experiences, or school events, our community plays a big role in helping our students grow. At the heart of it all is our incredible staff, who are what we like to call “warm demanders”—they teach with compassion while holding high expectations, helping students stretch, grow, and believe in themselves.
At Ferry, we focus on creating a place where every child feels known, supported, and inspired—where learning is meaningful and relationships are everything.
Our History
Our History
Ferry School is located in the heart of Grand Haven. It is known for the size of its heart, the skill of its educators, and the dedication of its parents. Ferry, named after early explorer, William Ferry, has a proud heritage dating back to 1913 when it was first built. Since that time there have been many changes, several additions and several refurbishments. In 2002 Ferry School was recognized with the Golden Apple Award by the State of Michigan as one of the most improved schools in the state. Today Ferry is wired with the latest technology and in 2006 was remodeled inside and out. Ferry School is home to a K-4 single-graded program, a district K-5 Reggio Inspired multi-age school within Ferry School called the Voyager School, the district Great Start Readiness Program for 4 year old children, a district autistic and extended resource special education program, A Head Start classroom, and a full complement of support services. Ferry School has received a grade of "A" from the state of Michigan for its exemplary support of all students and their families and high scores on the Michigan Educational Assessment Program.
A Community School
We provide our students with community involvement through many programs and activities such as visiting seniors in our neighborhood, delivering food to the needy with Love, Inc., a local community assistance organization, various fund raisers for community organizations, and other events that help our students understand the importance of community participation. In addition, community volunteers participate with us in countless ways. Our Student Council and PTA sponsor several activities throughout the year.
Ferry School is proud to be a community school known for high achievement, a vibrant mix of many programs and families, and a host of community outreach activities that reflect our commitment to a powerful vision.
Academics
Student Success
The success of every student is our number one priority. In addition to the traditional subject areas such as math, reading, writing, science, and social studies, Grand Haven students become quality producers who understand the importance of excellence. Our students learn to work as team members - applying creative and critical thinking skills – in addition to becoming self-directed learners who understand responsibility to their community and world.
Our students consistently score above county and state averages with authentic opportunities for lifelong learning.
Technology
In addition, thanks to the support of our community, our elementary students have extensive access to technology that supports the learning environment. Classrooms are equipped with cutting-edge technology that is interwoven into classroom learning, providing students the tools to compete in a global society. There are comprehensive media centers and computer labs to support the learning process in all schools.
Performance and Visual Arts
Performance and visual arts are also an integral part of the elementary school experience. The elementary art show is an impressive showcase of artistic talent. Students can study orchestra as early as the fourth grade, and band and choir in the fifth grade.
