Holland City School District

As Holland Public Schools greeted the 21st Century, the district was pressed by financial and declining enrollment challenges. This was largely due to a stagnant statewide economy, which caused many area families to leave Michigan for improved opportunity.Despite the ongoing budgetary squeeze, Holland Public School persevered and continued to fulfill its instructional mission with excellence and innovation. In the fall of 2006, for example, Holland High was cited by The College Board as one of the top Advanced Placement Programs in Michigan for its success in mathematics, science, and technology.Committed to maintaining a premier school day and extra-curricular program, Holland Public Schools, from 2004-2006, added a number of new components into its curriculum, including K-12 Spanish language instruction, a technology integration program for 4th-8th graders designed to connect state-of-the-art computer skills with the teaching of core subjects like math and social studies, and a highly concentrated "Reading First" literacy emphasis in grades K-3.Holland Public Schools has a uniquely beneficial instructional and social environment. This has been possible by the commitment of caring parents, students, staff, and community members. In 2005-2006, Superintendent Frank Garcia, Board President Steve Grose, and School Board trustees initiated a new strategic planning process, anchored in large part by a broad Citizens Advisory Committee. This community-based endeavor strengthened a district already blessed by a rich history that has spanned generations.