2023 Best Places to Teach in the Grand Rapids Area

• Grand Rapids, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  34 reviews

Senior: Overall, my experience at East Grand Rapids High School has been great. It is a small, yet incredible place to learn! The teachers are great and the community is very tight knit and supportive. There is minimal diversity between students as well as staff. Overall, great school.... Read 34 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Average teacher salary $65,806

• Grand Rapids, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  237 reviews

Sophomore: I was student in the district for several years until moving out of state after 10th grade, and I thought the academics were very good. There is a variety of programs available in high school for ambitious students, such as STEM Academy and vocational training programs. In my experience the students and teachers are nice, and if you show interest in a class/subject, the teachers care and will encourage you. Eastern has a no phone policy during the day that is wonderful. Compared to my experience in a school with no such policy, it is much easier to make friends and focus on learning with Eastern's policy. I think the other schools have a less strict policy, but still much better than none. The diversity of the student body varies between the three high schools, Eastern and Central lack diversity while Northern has more. All three schools have strengths in different sports, often competing at the state level, occasionally even national depending on the sport (such as rowing).... Read 237 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Average teacher salary $71,325

• Holland, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  57 reviews

Senior: West Ottawa Public Schools is highly dedicated to giving a quality education to a wide range of students of variable backgrounds. My experience from a low-income family has been nothing less than stellar. From free or reduced lunch to SAT and AP exam fee waivers or discounts, all students are given opportunities to succeed if they have the time to attend school and the drive to secure their future through the education system.... Read 57 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Average teacher salary $67,175

• Grandville, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  46 reviews

Senior: Grandville is a solid district. As long as you're in challenging classes, teachers are good nine times out of ten. Grandville's sports teams are competitive, consistently placing high in the state. The music program is also top in the state -- some would argue it's what Grandville does best. The administration does a good job of keeping a school climate that is healthy enough and safe. Some argue that they are a little strict, but that's a matter of opinion. If you are persistent and driven, you will have no problem getting involved and preparing for higher education. The politics are balanced as well, the administration generally does a good job of meeting republican-leaning and democratic-leaning families. The food is nothing to write home about, but it gets the job done.... Read 46 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Average teacher salary $64,494

• Spring Lake, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  56 reviews

Alum: I loved the amount and quality of opportunities I received. Through connecting with teachers, I was able to lead clubs through school-wide activities or participate in a high school student swap for the day. Whenever an issue arose, there could always be a willing person to hear you out. The teachers were flexible with projects occurring or sporting event conflicts. Spring Lake has very little diversity, and because of that the lifestyle and way of teaching are very white-washed. Most of the community is openminded to other ideas, but these people tend to think alike. Sports teams gave the illusion of being inclusive, however, they were anything but. Teams are set before tryout start usually, because of the politics behind them. Parents feel entitled to having their children on the team since they have donated so much money to the cause. I would like to see encouragement for anyone with interest in the sport to try-out because many are too scared.... Read 56 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Average teacher salary $67,477

• Byron Center, MI•

• School District

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  Rating 4.08 out of 5  48 reviews

Alum: I love Byron Center schools. The teachers are top notch and the facilities are beautiful. I truly believe that the education I got at Byron has prepared me for college and life. I will say that the experience is what you make it. If you take easy classes, the teachers may be less involved and it will likely seem as though the school isn't doing as good of a job as if you were taking harder classes, especially AP classes. I will be honest, however, that the diversity in our school is lacking. It is a VERY white, upper middle class school.... Read 48 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Average teacher salary $67,007

• Sparta, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.51 out of 5  63 reviews

Parent: The teachers are amazing and build a relationship with the students! Instead of the teachers being above the students they develop a trusting relationship with them. The counselors meet with the students 1:1 regularly to make sure the students are taking appropriate classes for their goals. The school is partnered with local colleges to encourage students to earn college credits while in high school. Being in a small town, sports are an important aspect of extra curricular activities and many options are available. I also like being notified right away when my child was noted absent. PowerSchool is very helpful to be involved in my child’s grades. Overall great schools!... Read 63 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Average teacher salary $67,743

• Norton Shores, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.36 out of 5  44 reviews

Sophomore: I've been in Mona Shores for the last three years and I've been very pleased with the education compared with my old school. The staff is very helpful and supportive as well. They seem that they really want you to graduate and succeed as you go through school. If I ever recommended to someone looking for a new school to go to, I would heavily recommend Shores! Go Sailors!... Read 44 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Average teacher salary $63,437

• Zeeland, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  47 reviews

Senior: I have been a student at Zeeland West High School now for 4 years. I came from a small school and Zeeland seemed massive in comparison, but eventually I learned my way around and now it's no longer so scary. The opportunities at this school are endless. So many sports and clubs to join it was hard to limit myself. I also found that the teachers are amazing people! I took time to get to know them a bit better, but it is evident that they care for all of their students. Overall, my experience at Zeeland West High School was one that I am very thankful for.... Read 47 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Average teacher salary $65,592

• Rockford, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  128 reviews

Senior: This is my second year at Rockford. It was a big change coming from a small school to a much larger school. I’ve gotten to meet so many different people, which is honestly the best! Rockford helped me feel like I was in somewhat of a college setting and allowed me to excel in academics and sports.... Read 128 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Average teacher salary $61,708

• Hudsonville, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  78 reviews

Senior: Hudsonville is a growing town that does its best to accommodate for everyone. Hudsonville's population is growing rapidly and they're changing to help those who need help. There are your typical students that cause trouble and the school may sometimes not fully take care of it, but they are doing the best they can and that's all that the students can ask for!... Read 78 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Average teacher salary $60,707

• Grand Rapids, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  69 reviews

Freshman: I like how the school has a friendly social environment. I feel as if both the teachers and students make you feel welcome. Environment makes a big difference in the quality of the education and the freedom to learn, ask questions and have discussions. One thing that I would change is that some of the lessons feel monotonous due to a restrictive curriculum. Not all of the required credits are ideal from a love of learning perspective. It would be nice to be able to customize the classes more than is currently allowed and take classes that will help guide me to my next steps. I know they let you test out of some classes, but I've already taken the classes in my schedule so doesn't really feel like an advantage. There are a lot of great classes though and overall, just one area that could be improved.... Read 69 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Average teacher salary $66,184

• Muskegon, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  21 reviews

Junior: I love North Muskegon Public Schools. It is like my second home. I have attended this school since I was 5 years old and am currently 16. The staff, students, and cosy classrooms make you feel right at home. In addition, this school has some of the best school spirit I have ever seen. Go Norse!... Read 21 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Average teacher salary $65,258

• Jenison, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  47 reviews

Parent: Love that they offer Spanish immersion school, are exceptional at music- lead state in band, have an incredible orchestra, choir. They are rich in theater and offer our children so many options besides just sports Academically they challenge my 3 children to push to their limits. We moved to this community 5 years ago and our oldest has taken full advantage of all the opportunities the school had to offer. She will be going to Case Western and despite having a 4.25 GPA she was not even in the top ten which goes to show the academic rigorousness of the teaching The teachers are UNBELIEVABLY dedicated to their students. They invest in them and spend a great deal of time out of the classroom dedicated to the growth of their students... Read 47 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Average teacher salary $55,320

• Caledonia, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  49 reviews

Senior: I like how each morning you are greeted with a smile and a good morning from the administration. The teachers are great and they truly care about your education. Additionally, the community in Caledonia pushes students to be the best that they can be!... Read 49 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Average teacher salary $64,476

• Grand Haven, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  71 reviews

Senior: I think Grand Haven is a great high school that provides students with great education. All of the teachers care about your education and are there to help you. If you are struggling at all, there is academy which allows you to seek out extra help. That time has been and is extremely helpful. I utilize that time to get homework done as well as make up tests, make up quizzes, and ask for help. I love the school spirit that our school has as well. Sporting events are always extremely fun and a highlight of my high school experience. At grand haven there is a club for everyone and everything and if we don’t have it, you can start it! So many fun opportunities!... Read 71 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Average teacher salary $64,317

• Ravenna, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  22 reviews

Senior: I think there are several positives to Ravenna Public Schools that go unrecognized. There is a caring community surrounding the school, our administration has improved by sevenfold over the past two years, and they are changing our academics for the better. Classes have become more challenging, we have just introduced our first two AP classes, and the school is kept very safe. However, there are also a few cons to the pros. The lunches are not good at all, which is unfortunate because the lunch ladies are awesome. Some of the rules are also bad too, with disciplinary measures being minimized recently. Overall, this school has went through a drastic change over the past year and a half, and it is without a doubt for the better.... Read 22 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Average teacher salary $60,772

• Kent City, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  14 reviews

Senior: At a glance, Kent City is just a small school surrounded by cornfields, but it is truly special. I've been a student of Kent City since kindergarten, so I've had the full experience. Since we are so small, everyone does their part in contributing to the school's many sports, clubs, and groups. Many students double up and triple up on extracurriculars. The basketball player is in the school play, and the marching band, and the writing team and so on. Everyone gets a chance to experience all these things. The teachers here are unparalleled. Many of them are more than just teachers -- they are also friends and mentors. As a school, we hold many accolades for our sports and activities. Just this year, a large bond was approved that will provide many new things for the school, which I'm sure will improve future student's experiences. To sum up, I would rate my experience with Kent City very highly. I'm proud to say I am a Kent City Eagle!... Read 14 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Average teacher salary $60,467

• Muskegon, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  38 reviews

Senior: I really enjoy Reeths Puffer because the teachers are more than just teachers to the students you can go to any one of your teachers and they would be willing to talk to you about anything. They care about their students and realize they are human beings with human emotions. Not only that but they recognize that with being human, humans make mistakes and aren’t always perfect so we are not held to a unreachable height of expectations they just ask for respect and for us to try our best when it comes to learning the curriculum. Reeths Puffer is a good sized school. It’s not too small not too big, it makes social events at my school fun to attend because although there are several thousand that attend my school you generally know pretty much everyone due to the variety of classes offered to every grade. I love and have loved my High School experience at this school and I know I will forever cherish my High School experiences.... Read 38 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Average teacher salary $62,461

• Allendale, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  57 reviews

Parent: Need teachers with more experience in certain subjects. Most teachers are great and genuinely care about their students! Feeling of community is strong. Great that students have the opportunity to take classes through local colleges for credit. Sports facilities need upgrading as we lag behind other schools in our division.... Read 57 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Average teacher salary $57,320

• Cedar Springs, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  53 reviews

Senior: It is a great school with lots of resources like SAT practice, KCTC involvement, and others. It doesn't have a lot of diversity, but the students are welcoming and are very active in the school culture. So if you want a school that dedicated this is the school for you. any of the teachers are actively involved and invested in the learning of their students. Overall, the school environment is friendly and engaging for students in my experience. I have taken many AP courses that have been able to push my thinking and learning to new heights. I attribute this learning growth to the incredible teachers that teach these classes. I have greatly appreciated the sense of college readiness Cedar Springs High School has given me and an overall sense of safety while I have attended this school. Whether it's athletics, assemblies, fundraisers, or after school events if it feels like the whole community is there.... Read 53 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Average teacher salary $58,234

• Lowell, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  31 reviews

Senior: Lowell Area Schools is a great district for those who want as many opportunities as possible. They offer dual enrollment with colleges, many AP classes, and even a school to work program. As far as changes I'd like to see: better preparation for college. The admissions process was very stressful and hard to juggle deadlines. It would've been nice to have some more support from our counselors.... Read 31 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Average teacher salary $61,828

• Grand Rapids, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  23 reviews

Senior: Very big and diverse school with opportunities for all interests! Offers many AP classes, sports, and aid if a student is struggling.... Read 23 reviews

• grade B+

• grade C+

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Average teacher salary $62,111

• Coopersville, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  40 reviews

Parent: Coopersville Area Public Schools is one of the best schools out there! As being a parent of a student that attend the middle school, my children have been very sucessful in life and they have made my children a better version of themselves and everyday when they come home from school everyday with a smile on there faces and can't wait to go back the next day! The teachers are very sweet and kind and understand and will help my children with there trouble skills and help them grow and learn even more day by day. I love it in coopersville and the community is wonderful!... Read 40 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Average teacher salary $57,492

• Muskegon, MI•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  19 reviews

Senior: I am currently a high school senior at Orchard View. I have had the time of my life these last 4 years and I'm very disappointed my last year of high school had to end like this. From the teachers, to the administration, the coaches, my classmates, and the Ov parents, has by far made it the best thing I've came across in my life.... Read 19 reviews

• grade C

• grade B minus

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Average teacher salary $57,375