From early elementary all the way through the high school, Ferris State is present in our schools with volunteers, nurses, tutors, dental hygiene students, and more. Ferris also provides opportunities for our students with the ability to earn college credits through dual enrollment. The partnership between Ferris State and Big Rapids Public Schools is a great example of how learning environments can grow when communities take time to foster relationships.

BRPS partners with Corewell Health to offer activities encouraging healthy lifestyles and to provide a school nurse for our district. This has proven to be a valuable resource for parents, staff, and students. Offering peace of mind when students are sick or dealing with allergies or medical conditions, our district nurse makes our learning environment a safer place. We are thankful for this partnership and will continue our commitment to student health and safety.

The community of Big Rapids continues to show support for our schools. Whether by volunteering in the classroom, playing host to student field trips for educational events, providing impactful experiences, or mentoring students on future career aspirations, the Big Rapids community is a big part of 'Educating our Future'.

Big Rapids is so fortunate to have the partnership of the Mecosta County Sheriff's Department and the Big Rapids Office of Public Safety to provide liaison officers in our schools and to provide guidance and support on safety procedures for our district. This relationship bridges the gap between the schools, parents, and students and the officers protecting and serving our community.

Over the past several years, various parent groups have come together to support and raise funds for student activities. Our students have reaped the benefit in various ways such as: field trips; health and fitness days including inflatables, foam machines, and outdoor activities; classroom supplies; educational website subscriptions; outdoor equipment such as playgrounds and benches; school t-shirts; school assemblies with engaging presenters; the construction of outdoor learning spaces; athletic equipment; band uniform contributions; and covering expenses for student trips for competition. We are incredibly lucky to have this parent support and we recognize and applaud the difference these organizations make in our students' school experience.

Big Rapids High School and Virtual School students benefit from a partnership with the Career Center for hand-on learning that translates to real world skills. Students choose programs that meet their interests and aptitudes. They create multiple projects, engage in leadership activities, and understand their environment and community through a more contextual approach to learning. MOCC prides themselves in a safe an nurturing environment that fosters a professional atmosphere and offers pathway-based programs that simulate a work-based learning environment. Students get a sense of responsibility and, upon course completion, an awareness of what one can accomplish today and what is possible for one's future.