Meijer backs educator development initiative in West Michigan

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijer is supporting a new cohort of West Michigan educators through its partnership with Huntington National Bank’s Ignite the Classroom initiative, a yearlong professional development program focused on improving instruction and student outcomes.

More than 150 educators from Kentwood, Holland, Grand Rapids, and Grandville Public Schools, along with Grand Valley State University Charter Schools, have been selected to participate, marking the program's first West Michigan cohort. Participants will engage in workshops, coaching sessions, and classroom-focused training throughout the upcoming school year.

A centerpiece of the initiative is a summer immersion at the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, where educators are introduced to high-engagement teaching strategies and leadership practices that translate directly into classroom impact.

Since launching in 2024, Ignite the Classroom has reached nearly 2,300 educators across 40 school districts within Huntington’s footprint. Program data show measurable gains, with 44% of participating teachers reporting improved outcomes for students previously in the lowest performance quartile and 45% citing progress in addressing chronic absenteeism. More than 90% of educators said their expectations for student achievement increased after completing the program.

The initiative is offered at no cost to participating educators, with funding from Huntington and support from regional partners, including Meijer, to help remove financial barriers to access.

“At Meijer, supporting the communities and families we serve has always been at the heart of who we are, and investing in our local schools is one of the most meaningful ways we can make a lasting impact,” said Rick Keyes, President and CEO, Meijer. “We’re proud to partner with Huntington Bank on Ignite the Classroom to help ensure West Michigan educators have the support and resources they need to inspire the next generation.”