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West Michigan Aviation Academy students fly model airplane.

The Division of K–12 Education Innovation and Scholar Success (DEISS) advances Grand Valley State University’s commitment to transforming education across the K–12 to college continuum. Through oversight of GVSU-authorized K–12 charter public schools, support for Thompson and Charter Scholars enrolled at GVSU, and exploring groundbreaking ideas in the GV NextEd CoLab, DEISS is shaping new possibilities for learners and educators.

We strategically connect learners, education practitioners, and community members with the University to create equitable educational pathways, strengthen educational outcomes, inspire innovation, and foster lifelong achievement.

Proudly celebrating over 30 years as a charter public school authorizer.

Who We Impact

79 Charter Public Schools

Authorized by GVSU

300 Board Members

Governing GVSU Charter Schools

35,078 K-12 Learners

Enrolled in GVSU Charter Schools

1,256 Thompson Scholars

Enrolled at GVSU

390 Charter Scholars

Enrolled at GVSU

DEISS News

July 2026 Board of Trustees Update

On July 10, 2026, the GVSU Board of Trustees acted on several items that impact GVSU-authorized charter public schools.

Published July 13, 2026

Student success coaching model draws national attention at NASPA Conference

DEISS members shared strategies for improving student persistence, retention, and belonging through relationship-centered coaching.

Published June 25, 2026

Hands-on learning sparks healthcare career exploration in Traverse City

High school students from Northern Michigan gathered at Grand Valley’s Traverse City Regional Center this week to explore healthcare careers through hands-on learning.

Published May 29, 2026

Curiosity and creativity drive Detroit TRIO STEAM Summit at Michigan Central

Students from University Prep High Schools in Detroit explored virtual reality, sustainability research and collaborative problem-solving this month during the TRIO Upward Bound Detroit STEAM Summit at Michigan Central.

Published May 26, 2026

View more DEISS News

Cook Carillon Tower seen through glass of Kirkhof Center entryway on Monday,  2025-11-17.  Photography by Steve Jessmore
Page last modified August 12, 2026