Best Public Schools in Grand Rapids, MI

The city of Grand Rapids, Michigan is home to a diverse array of 130 schools, including 62 elementary schools, 19 middle schools, 36 high schools, and 13 alternative schools. These schools serve students across a range of socioeconomic backgrounds and academic abilities, showcasing both areas of excellence and persistent challenges in the local education system.

Some of the standout schools in Grand Rapids include East Grand Rapids High School, which is ranked 37th out of 735 Michigan high schools and has a 5-star rating. It boasts a high 4-year graduation rate of 98.3% and low dropout rate of 1.0%, with students performing exceptionally well on standardized tests. Another high-performing school is West Michigan Aviation Academy, ranked 34th in the state and also earning a 5-star rating. In contrast, schools serving disadvantaged populations, such as Ottawa Hills High School and Godwin Heights Senior High School, struggle with low test scores, high chronic absenteeism, and low graduation rates.

The data reveals stark disparities in academic performance between the highest-performing and lowest-performing schools, often correlated with socioeconomic status. Schools with the lowest free/reduced lunch rates, such as Breton Downs School and Knapp Forest Elementary School, tend to have the strongest test scores and graduation rates. This highlights the significant challenges faced by Grand Rapids Public Schools and other districts serving disadvantaged student populations, underscoring the need for continued efforts to address equity and ensure all students have access to a high-quality education.