Charter Schools Newsletter | December 2025

Three decades after opening its doors, the first charter school authorized by GVSU continues to lead the way by "doing the common things uncommonly well."

After 11 years supporting GVSU charter public schools, December marks the final month with our team member Cheryl Edwards-Cannon. We're excited for her new opportunity to pursue another passion of hers -- ensuring older adults receive high-quality care.

A huge thanks to Cheryl for all she helped our schools and team accomplish, and for always putting kids first!

Families have trusted this Romulus K–8 charter public school for a generation. Now, former students are returning to teach, and the school is still helping kids grow—in every way.

Pursue your graduate education degree or a variety of certifications with help from the Continuing Education Scholarship. Educators working in GVSU-authorized charter schools can earn a 50% or 80% tuition discount, depending on eligibility.

Apply by December 5 to use the scholarship toward courses in the Winter semester.

Students at The Greenspire School use photo archives and adventure to document changes across the Grand Traverse Commons as they learn about the significance of the buildings and grounds.

K-8 districts have until December 19 to apply for benchmark assessment funding from the state. Districts can apply for this funding if they administer Curriculum Associates i-Ready, NWEA Map, or Renaissance Star benchmark assessments to students in any grade K-8.

National School Choice Week is a perfect time for schools to put the spotlight on the school community! Join the celebration January 25-31 to show off all the incredible ways your students and families are thriving thanks to public school choice. 

GVSU submitted its annual report on charter school authorization to fulfill requirements contained within Michigan Public Act 15 of 2025, Section 275k. The report provides details on GVSU's charter authorizing practices as well as details on each GVSU charter public school, much of which is already publicly available.

A copy of the report is now available via GVSU's homepage.

Thanks to everyone that applied for an Impact 30 grant. In total, we received 74 applications! The applications are will now being reviewed and winners will be announced by December 19.

Black River Public School's sailing team finished 3rd overall at the Great Oaks National Championship.

Learners at Flint Cultural Center Academy exchange tokens for books when they use Inchy's Bookworm Vending Machine.

The Michigan Department of Education recently released memos on a number of topics, including: