District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to celebrate four employees who have reached the remarkable milestone of 40 years of service to our scholars, families, and community.

Teachers Christine Black, Barbara Dodge, and Renee Lance, along with Public Safety Lt. Christina Johnson, were honored during the June Board of Education meeting for their extraordinary dedication and lasting contributions to GRPS.

Christine Black is a kindergarten teacher at Kent Hills Elementary School, where she has served since 2008. She began her career with GRPS as a special education teacher and has worked in several schools across the district. During the board meeting, she thanked her colleagues and family for their support throughout her career.

"Thank you to my family, without them I wouldn't be here," Black said. "I love what I do and I do what I love."

Barbara Dodge is a kindergarten teacher at Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Academy. Over the course of her four decades with GRPS, she has served scholars at multiple schools throughout the district.

"I want to thank God because he is the reason I am here. He blessed me with the ability to take part in what his plan was," Dodge said.

Renee Lance is a special education teacher at Aberdeen Academy. During her 40 years with GRPS, she has served in several schools and helped mentor fellow educators.

"It has been a privilege," Lance told attendees.

Christina Johnson is a lieutenant with GRPS Public Safety and School Security. She began her career with the district as a security officer and has also served in training and compliance roles. During the celebration, she shared her commitment to continuing her service to the GRPS community.

"If the Lord is willing, I plan to be here another 40 years because what I do I love - and that's putting our kids, our families, and our staff first," Lt. Johnson said.

Together, these four dedicated employees represent 160 years of service at GRPS. Their commitment has touched countless lives and helped make GRPS a stronger community for generations of scholars and families.