Education

One of the smartest reasons for locating your home or business in the Holland area is the community's commitment to education. Ever since the Holland area was settled, residents have placed a high priority on education. Today, educational opportunities abound, from preschool through graduate level university courses.

Most area K-12 students attend schools administered by the Hamilton School District, Holland Christian Schools, Holland Public Schools, Saugatuck Public Schools, West Ottawa Public Schools and the Zeeland School District.

Other students choose to attend one of the area's parochial or charter schools.  Black River Public School is a college preparatory school serving students in grades 4-12 in a small school environment.  Chartered by Grand Valley State University in 1996, the school's mission focuses on high academic standards and small class sizes.

Careerline Tech Center, north of Holland, also links education with the work place. The center offers career-oriented education and training to high school students from several area public, private and charter schools.

A joint project of the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District and Grand Rapids Community College, the Patrick A. Thompson Michigan Technical Education Center (M-TEC) offers vocational training in technical skilled trades, either through courses geared for individuals, or through customized training for specific employers.

Hope College is one of Holland's four post-secondary institutions. Affiliated with the Reformed Church of America, the college is a vital part of the city's heritage. Located just two blocks from downtown, it is the only private, four-year liberal arts college in the United States with national accreditation in art, dance, music and theater.

Western Theological Seminary is next to Hope College and is also affiliated with the Reformed Church of America. Open to students of any denomination, the seminary attracts students from throughout the world.

Davenport University is another Holland area post-secondary institution. Tracing its roots to 1866, the Grand Rapids-based institution has grown from a college into the largest independent university in Michigan and northern Indiana.

College courses are also offered in Holland at Grand Valley State University's Meijer Campus. Set on 19 acres donated by Meijer Inc., the university offers bachelor's and master's degrees as well as a variety of general education courses.