As we gear up for the start of the 2025–2026 school year, there’s a buzz of excitement across Jenison! August brings the return of our incredible staff, the welcome of new Wildcat families, and final touches on buildings and classrooms. Mark your calendars for the first day of school on Tuesday, August 20, and stay tuned for upcoming events like open houses, fall athletics, and community celebrations. We can’t wait to kick off another year of learning, growth, and Wildcat pride—together!
Jenison Public Schools
Important Dates
August 20 – First Day of School (Half Day for students)
August 28 - Wildcat Festival
August 29 – September 1 – Labor Day Recess – No School
District Updates
Food Service
Important news regarding our food service program: Breakfast will be served every school day starting August 20. Thanks to current funding, all meals are free through September 30, 2025, but this funding isn’t guaranteed beyond that date. We are urging legislators to finalize the state budget and continue support so every student can keep receiving meals. We encourage all families to complete the Free & Reduced Meal Application, as approved applications help secure essential funding for our schools and unlock discounts on athletics, technology, testing, and more. To receive any discounts, please be sure to return this form to Food Service. For menus and more information, visit jenhudfood.org or contact foodservice@hpseagles.net or (616) 457-2400.
Emergency Response Protocol Implementation
Jeff Steigenga serves as the Director of Security for Jenison Public Schools, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the role. Prior to joining JPS, Jeff served with the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department for over two decades, including as a Sergeant. His deep knowledge of law enforcement, school safety protocols, and community engagement ensures that JPS maintains a proactive and compassionate approach to keeping students, staff, and families safe.
This year, we’re aligning with Ottawa County and state standards by using the “I Love U Guys” emergency response language. This will improve cross-agency collaboration and communication.
Jenison Athletics Is Going Cashless
Jenison Athletics will be cashless for all spectator admissions to athletic sporting events.
What does this mean?
Jenison Athletics will not accept cash for entry into any athletic contest or event. This includes Junior High (7th and 8th Grade) and High School (Freshman, JV, and Varsity) contests.
How do you purchase a single ticket to an event?
Single tickets to Jenison athletic events can be purchased online at https://gofan.co/app/school/MI10156 or at the admission gate or table with a credit card/debt card, or Apple pay.
Upcoming Events
Parking on Main Campus
Parking may be limited during large events at Jenison Public Schools during bond construction. We strongly encourage families and guests to carpool whenever possible to help ease congestion. Please be mindful of parking rules and exercise extra caution when walking or driving in areas with large crowds. Thank you for your cooperation and patience while construction is underway.
Student Opportunities
Jenison Wild Basketball
Evaluation Sign-Up is OPEN!
We’re gearing up for another great season of Jenison Wild basketball for boys and girls entering 3rd–6th grade this fall!
While the season officially begins in late October, evaluations are coming up in August:
Evaluation Dates @ Jenison Junior High Gym
BOYS: Sunday, August 17
GIRLS: Sunday, August 24
3rd/4th Grade: 5:15–6:15 PM
5th/6th Grade: 6:45–7:45 PM
Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in!
Register here to reserve your spot
Note: Completing the form does not commit your child to the team—it simply saves their spot at evaluations.
Please let us know if you have any questions! jenisonwild@gmail.com
Elementary Dance Team
Jenison is thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new Elementary Dance Team! This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn new skills, make friends, and show their school spirit through fun and energetic performances.
The team will be split into two age groups so every dancer can learn at their own pace:
Kinder – 3rd Grade
4th – 6th Grade
The season will start on September 15 and run on Mondays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The cost will be $150. No prior dance experience is required — just a positive attitude and a love for movement! Our practices will focus on teamwork, confidence-building, and creativity, all while preparing for exciting performance opportunities throughout the year.
If your child loves to move, perform, and be part of something special, we’d love to have them join us!
Elementary Robotics Season
The Elementary Robotics season is coming up, and a signup meeting is scheduled for September 22nd. Read the attached PDF for more information.
Experience More
Sharing Your Event or Program with JPS Families
Jenison Public Schools now uses the Experience More page on our website as the central location for all approved community events and programs.
View current opportunities: Experience More
Ready to Compete. Ready to Perform. Ready to Succeed.
Ready, Set, Jenison!
