Superintendent

Hudsonville Public SchoolsDr. Doug VanderJagt
3886 Van Buren
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Phone: (616) 669-1740
Fax: (616) 669-4878

Superintendent
Dr. Douglas VanderJagt
 

Dear Hudsonville Families,

As another school year comes to a close, I simply want to say thank you. Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and the trust you place in Hudsonville Public Schools each day. It takes a strong partnership between home and school to create the kind of experiences our students deserve, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that cares so deeply about kids.

This time of year always brings a mix of excitement and reflection. We celebrate tremendous accomplishments, recognize growth in so many ways, and prepare to send another outstanding senior class out into the world. In the coming days, we will gather to celebrate the Class of 2026 in our fieldhouse. They have left a lasting mark on Hudsonville Public Schools, and we are incredibly proud of the young adults they have become.

Summer also provides something our students truly need: time to slow down, recharge, and reconnect. In a world that constantly competes for our attention through screens, notifications, and busy schedules, I encourage families to intentionally create space for simpler moments this summer. Spend time outside. Take a walk. Ride bikes. Visit a park. Stay out a little later on warm evenings. Encourage unstructured play, creativity, and independence. Some of the most meaningful childhood memories are built in those everyday moments that cannot be scheduled or downloaded.

While technology certainly has its place, summer is a great opportunity to rebalance and make more room for face-to-face conversations, outdoor adventures, reading, imagination, and genuine connection with family and friends. Across many communities, families and schools are beginning to rethink the role technology plays in childhood and are rediscovering the importance of free play, healthy relationships, and time outdoors. Those experiences matter deeply for the emotional, social, and physical well-being of our children.

Of course, I still encourage students to keep learning over the summer as well. Reading together, exploring new places, trying something creative, volunteering, or simply being curious about the world around them all help students continue to grow long after the final school bell rings.

Our district office will remain open throughout the summer if we can assist your family in any way. Key dates for the 2026-27 school year are already available on our district website, while the complete district calendar is still being finalized. We look forward to welcoming students back on Wednesday, August 26.

Thank you again for your continued support of Hudsonville Public Schools. It is truly an honor to serve this community and work alongside families who care so much about children and their future.

I hope your family enjoys a safe, relaxing, and memorable summer together.

Warm regards,

Dr. VanderJagt