Dear Staff, Families, and Community Members,

Last night, the GRCDC Board of Directors voted to move forward with a new authorizing partnership with Grand Valley State University, beginning July 1 2026. We were approved for a SEVEN YEAR authorization- this length of time is reserved for schools exceeding their goals. We are so excited about this new chapter and want to share the news about what this means now and for the future.

First, we want to honor our relationship to and history with Grand Rapids Public Schools. GRPS has been a meaningful partner since GRCDC's very beginning and we are deeply grateful for the support, collaboration and trust that helped grow us into the school community we are today. Our history matters and our relationships matter- we carry those forward with respect and a mutual commitment to the children of Grand Rapids.

The decision of the GRCDC Board of Directors reflects growth, alignment, and opportunity. The theme of our current strategic plan is "Building Capacity" and a partnership with GVSU will do just that! Our mission, values, staff, programs and day to day experiences with children will remain the same. What is changing is the water we’re swimming in—and the expanded resources and support available to us, now and into the future.

As Narwhals, we are diving into new waters alongside the Lakers of GVSU- a partnership that offers strong alignment with our educational vision and values, long-term stability, and opportunities for continued learning and collaboration. We believe that this is the best right next step to position GRCDC for a future of growth and possibility!

I know that one of the main questions on many people’s minds will be about our staff—our teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff—who make our “education based on relationships” what it is. Our teachers and staff are employees of GRCDC, and they will remain employees of GRCDC.

The Board and I believe this move will allow us to better meet the needs of our staff and teachers, and this decision is rooted in deep respect for the daily work that has made our success possible. I will share more information in the coming weeks and months as we move toward this momentous change. I am committed to transparency and partnership as we move forward together.

Thank you for being a part of this community—past, present, and future. As always, I welcome your questions, comments and engagement- reach out here or in way of the other ways offered below.

With gratitude and excitement,

Lisa and the GRCDC Team

e. nuyensl@childdiscoverycenter.org

o.616-459-0330

c. 517-206-3868 (vm or vn, text)