Office of Communications & External Affairs

Our Staff:

John Helmholdt
Director of Communications & External affairs 
E-Mail:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Phone: (616) 819-3740
Fax: (616) 819-2146
Cell Phone: (616) 481-2152

Welcome to the GRPS Communications & External Affairs Office website!   Here you can find up-to-date news and information about the events and great things happening throughout the district.  If you have any questions, would like to receive additional information, or would like to share your thoughts or give feedback, please contact us at (616) 819-2149 or e-mail us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Highlights Newsletter
Highlights is the district’s newsletter, complete with information and highlights about the schools, programs, services, events, and grand happenings at GRPS. It is printed and mailed every residential household and business located within the City of Grand Rapids (approximately 85,000). It is also available at local restaurants, coffee shops, libraries, health clinics, and other points of interest.
Thanks to a new “sponsorship/advertising” program and the generous support of our supporters, Highlights is printed and mailed at no expense to the taxpayers. If you are interested in “sponsorship/advertising opportunities” click here.

Weeky Highlights E-News
GRPS issues a weekly* electronic newsletter known as “Weekly Highlights” (formerly known as Telestaff). Our E-News provides frequent updates and highlights on the news, events, and happenings throughout the district. If you want to SIGN UP to receive “Weekly Highlights” e-news, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 616-819-2149.  (* Some exceptions may apply.)

Press Releases
GRPS issues frequent media advisories, press releases, and prepared statements regarding events, issues, people, and special projects related to the district and our schools.  Click on the link for a list of our most recent press releases. If you have an idea or issue you believe is newsworthy, please contact us and we will make every effort to generate media coverage.

GRPS In the News
GRPS in the News is the compilation of  “news clips” about the Grand Rapids Public Schools as reported by local, state and national media outlets. It is sent out via e-mail on a regular basis and includes headlines, full articles and/or links to stories. If you want to SIGN UP to receive “GRPS In the News,” please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 616-819-2149.