River City Scholars is a tuition-free public charter school in Grand Rapids serving students in grades K-8. We shape instruction to build on the strengths and abilities of each student and integrate Moral Focus™ lessons into every school day. As a result, our students are well-prepared from kindergarten through eighth grade. A Stanford University study found National Heritage Academies partner-school students gained the equivalent of 3.5 months of additional learning each year compared to peers.
I'm Ready to Apply I Want to Learn MoreSchedule a school tour and learn more about our personalized teaching, Moral Focus™ program, after-school activities, clubs, sports, and more.
Looking to tour River City? Come on in on Monday, February 9th between 9:30am and 10:30am! We would love to show you around.
We know great families like yours make our community strong! That's why we're excited to introduce NHA Family Refer & Earn.
River City has partnered with the Y to provide our families with their Great Start Readiness Preschool Program.
Looking to tour River City? Come on in on Monday, March 16th between 9:30am and 10:30am! We would love to show you around.
Spring is in the air, and we’re egg-cited to invite you to the NHA Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt! Join us for a fun-filled celebration for children and families from our school community and beyond. This FREE community event at Grand River Preparatory High School will include a festive Egg Hunt with age-designated areas for children ages 0 - 5th grade, family-friendly activities and games, photo opportunities with our Bunny, prizes and treats, and a chance to connect with NHA staff, families, and neighbors. Join us for the festivities with an outdoor egg hunt, weather permitting (or indoors if needed), packed with fun for children ages 0–5th grade—so bring your baskets, invite your friends, and enjoy a joyful morning of springtime fun. We can’t wait to celebrate with our current families and welcome new faces from the community. 'Hop' to see you there!
Parent Portal gives parents quick and easy access to their child's information. Click below to learn more!
We offer advanced learning opportunities for top-performing students who are ready to progress beyond grade level.
New families can expect to find out if their child has been accepted by Friday, March 6.
Thank you for choosing a school that values academic growth, strong character, and partnership with parents.
Interested in applying for the 2026-27 school year? Apply here today!
River City Scholars is ranked one of the top two schools in the area based on academic performance.
River City Scholars is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network. Founded in 1995, NHA has spent 30 years partnering with families to help children succeed.
NHA Operates 103 tuition-free public charter schools across nine states.
"I have always loved working with students and families to grow students and help them realize and meet their potential, and support them along the way. I am thankful that I am able to fulfill that passion working with amazing students, staff, and parents. It is an amazing place to be!"
- Kaylen Hook, Principal at River City
Learn How to Apply at Wellspring PrepGive your child the advantage of a full K-12 experience with River City Scholars and Wellspring Preparatory High School.
Begin at River City, a top-performing K-8 school focused on academic growth and character. Then continue at Wellspring Prep—a college-prep high school committed to student success.
River City Parent
My daughter has switched schools twice, and is now at River City. She will stay here until she graduates from middle school. I will continue to choose River City Scholars, it’s an awesome place to be!
There are a lot of factors in deciding where your child will go to school and we want to help. Use our live chat or leave your information and we will be in touch.
Contact MeSchedule a school tour and learn more about our personalized teaching, Moral Focus program, after-school activities, clubs, sports, and more.
Tour the SchoolApply online, in person, or over the phone and don’t hesitate to ask us questions along the way! We are here for you.
Apply Today!
