Superintendent

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September 5, 2025

GLPS Families,

As we wrap up our second week of school, it is clear that we are back into the routine of learning. As I made my way around the district over these first few days, I was struck by how quickly we moved from summer break into school mode. I know the students, and the staff, are tired today as they rebuild their school stamina, but everywhere I have been, I have been met with smiling faces and a general excitement about being back in school.

I want to start by thanking you for helping with that transition. I am glad you and your family have chosen to give Grand Ledge Public Schools the opportunity to work with your children to learn and grow in our school system. A strong partnership between schools, families, and communities starts at home, and the support that you provide for your kids allows us to create a learning environment where they can thrive, and we very much value the relationship that we have with you and your family.

It is also important to highlight the amazing staff that we have here at GLPS. Regardless of their role, the GLPS grown ups that work with our GLPS kids make this district the best in the region. A couple of weeks ago on the opening day for staff, we discussed the fact that everyone who works here plays a role in our students’ education. After all, if kids don’t get to school safely, or have food to eat, or have clean and working school buildings in which to learn, they can’t focus on their education. Our instructional and support staffs are second to none, and our leadership teams work hard to create the environment in which all of this can happen. To those ends, I often share this graphic with staff, reminding them that they all play a role in student success:

I want to take this opportunity to publicly thank our staff for all they do, and also to encourage you to do the same. A simple thank you or a note of affirmation means a lot to our folks, so if you get the chance, please take a moment to thank the many adults here in the district that create such wonderful learning experiences for our kids. 

In addition, I also encourage you to take a look at our careers page. We have most of our positions filled, but a district our size always has a few openings, so if you are interested in joining our team, or know someone else who might be, please take a look at the jobs that are always available. This is a wonderful place to work, because we have such wonderful kids, families, and colleagues!

As I close today, I am looking forward to our first full week next week, capped off with homecoming on Friday (yes, it is early this year!). Again, thank you for your support and for giving us the opportunity to work with you and your children every day. As always, I am #proudtobeacomet!

Dr. Bill Barnes
Superintendent of Schools