Overview
Zeeland Public Schools (ZPS) is a prominent public school district located in Zeeland, Michigan, and serves a vast area spanning approximately 94 square miles. This includes parts of Zeeland, a portion of Holland, and eight rural townships across Ottawa and Allegan counties. Renowned for its dedication to educational excellence, ZPS prioritizes both academic rigor and character development, ensuring a nurturing environment where students are deemed safe, valued, loved, and learning.
Mission and Vision
- Mission Statement: ZPS collaborates with families and the community to focus on the safety, value, love, and learning of all students.
- Vision Statement: The district is devoted to educating both the hearts and minds of students to unlock their fullest potential.
- Tag Line: Learning For Life!
- Motto: Safe, Valued, Loved, and Learning.
Education and Curriculum
ZPS serves a diverse student population of 6,010 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with an educational structure comprising six elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools. The curriculum prioritizes core academic subjects such as reading, writing, and mathematics, while also instilling valuable character traits like good citizenship and responsibility.
- Elementary Education: The district offers gifted programming and unique education paths such as Spanish Immersion and the multi-age, year-round ZQuest option.
- Middle School Education: A team-based teaching model supports sixth to eighth graders, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- High School Education: Students have access to a diverse curriculum that includes advanced placement, technical education, and joint programs with local colleges.
Strategic Facilities
ZPS operates two high schools, Zeeland East and Zeeland West, which share a campus. These institutions offer comprehensive education programs, including college preparatory courses, vocational training, fine arts, athletics, Spanish Immersion, and online learning opportunities.
Administration and Leadership
Key leadership at the ZPS administrative office, located at 183 W. Roosevelt Avenue, Zeeland, MI 49464, is as follows:
- Superintendent: Dr. Brandi-Lyn Mendham, Ph.D., who also serves on the Corewell Health Zeeland Community Board, illustrating active community engagement.
- Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services: Jon Voss
- Communications and Marketing Director: Brandy Navetta
- Chief Financial Officer: Lynn VanKampen
Board of Education
The governance of ZPS is overseen by a dedicated board of directors, with school board meetings occurring monthly on the third Monday at the Zeeland West High School cafeteria.
Contact Details
- General Phone: 616-748-3000
- Administration Office Phone: 616-748-3002
Recent Developments
Recent initiatives include the 2025 Community Bond Survey, which focuses on gathering community feedback to guide future developments.
Online Presence
Maintaining an active online presence, ZPS engages with the community through its comprehensive website and social media channels, including Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
Competitor Profiling for Zeeland Public Schools
Zeeland Public Schools stands as a significant educational district in Michigan, with annual revenue estimated at $110.3 million and employing 490 staff members. The district has shown a robust growth pattern, with a notable 20% increase in employee count over the past year.
Geographical and Structural Scope
ZPS covers approximately 94 square miles, including the city of Zeeland, part of the city of Holland, and eight townships within Ottawa and Allegan Counties.
Competitors
1. Shiawassee RESD: This district has annual revenue of $29.9 million with 151 employees and is experiencing 8% employee growth.
2. West Ottawa Public Schools: A leading district in Ottawa County, it serves a student population of 6,701 with a strong focus on diverse educational and co-curricular programs.
3. Holland Public Schools: With revenue of $187.5 million, this district is economically robust and holds a competitive advantage in the region.
4. Mason Consolidated Schools and Early Childhood Services: These smaller competitors have revenues of $10.9 million and $11.3 million, respectively.
Educational Performance and Recognition
ZPS is recognized for its excellence, particularly in student performance in math and reading. Its commitment to maintaining high educational standards is demonstrated through consistent annual reporting and accountability.
Strategic Insights
To remain competitive, ZPS leverages its expansive coverage and comprehensive programs. The district's sustainable growth model is evident through its expanding workforce. By capitalizing on existing resources and embracing innovative educational tools and community engagement strategies, ZPS can further enhance its market position. Drawing lessons from high-achieving districts, such as West Ottawa Public Schools, which emphasize college readiness and life skills, can offer valuable insights into future growth directions.
