Rockford — Rockford is among 19 Michigan districts set to receive Future Proud Michigan Educator EXPLORE grant funding to help students on the path to a career in education.
The Michigan Department of Education recently announced the 2025 recipients of the EXPLORE grants. Rockford, with a $240,000 award, earned more than any other district in the state. Grand Rapids, the only other district in Kent County to receive a grant, was awarded $60,000.
Funds will be used to help students “explore the field of education, or to build awareness with our students around the field of education,” said Lisa Jacobs, Rockford’s executive director of community services. This could include the cost of clubs, classes, speakers and other initiatives that increase awareness about careers in education for students in grades 6-12.
Some funding will support high school students taking part in educational programming offered through a partnership between the district and Grand Valley State University, said Rockford High School Principal Tom Hosford.
“By investing in our students and leveraging partnerships with local universities, we’re investing in the future of our entire community,” Hosford said. “Supporting aspiring teachers not only changes their lives but strengthens the quality of education in our schools.”
Jacobs noted that grant funds will also cover up to $10,000 per Rockford student during their first year of college at GVSU.
“When we have the ability to expand what we can do for our students, not only within our system, but in the year after as well, it’s pretty exciting. And it’s so helpful to families from a financial standpoint,” Jacobs said.
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