Frequently Asked Questions
What is the schedule/calendar?
ZQuest sessions align with ZPS, however, we operate on a balanced calendar (in session for approximately 6 weeks and off for 1 week. ~7 weeks off in the summer).
When all traditional ZPS schools are in session, we operate during the regular elementary and middle school times (8:40-3:35 for elementary and 7:35-2:30 for middle school). During the summer months of June and August when only ZQuest is in session, students attend school M-Th (no Friday's), from 8:30 am-2:00 pm. Usually this breaks down to 8 days before and 8 days after the traditional calendar.
Is kindergarten all day, every day?
Yes, kindergarten is all day, every day, following the balanced calendar as well.
What grades does ZQuest offer?
ZQuest offers kindergarten through 8th grade.
How is the multi-aged program structured?
- Kindergarten learns in a single-grade classroom, with collaborative opportunities with other grade levels built in throughout the week.
- Grades 1-3 learn in a multiage setting among their teachers.
- Grades 4-5 learn in single-grade classrooms, with collaborative opportunities with other grade levels built in throughout the week.
- Grades 6-8 learn in a multiage setting among their teachers.
Students will participate in learning activities throughout the day within their groups, with the ability to move to higher-leveled math and/or reading groups as needed.
What curriculum is used?
ZQuest is committed to following the State of Michigan Common Core Standards and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). We use curriculum that has been approved by ZPS, and we also allow teachers the flexibility to incorporate supplemental resources. The primary mode of instruction is through project-based learning, which re-frames the required content with the following characteristics:
- inquiry-based
- collaborative
- incorporates an authentic audience
- problem solving in a real-world context
- student voice and choice
Project-based learning also focuses on building 21st century skills, such as creative thinking, communication, and collaboration, in addition to state and national standards.
Are there traditional school amenities available?
Yes. ZQuest has full access to lunch services and elective classes including music, library, and physical education during the traditional ZPS calendar. Lunch is also offered during th June and August months.
ZQuest students have access to a new Outdoor Education Elective/Special that meets two day per week! This is in partnership with the Outdoor Discovery Center (ODC). This is in addition to music, art, and PE. Our goal is also to connect these outdoor learning experiences with our Project-Based Learning (PBL) units.
Middle school students take elective and music courses at Creekside Middle School, with the option of receiving high school credit for Spanish, Geometry, and PE in their 8th grade year.
Special education services are provided throughout the ZQuest calendar year.
Transportation is offered to all in-district (ZPS) families during the traditional ZPS calendar. If you live outside of the Zeeland boundaries, you will be responsible for transporting your child/ren. You must also provide transportation to and from school for the months of June and August.
Are there special education services offered?
Yes. Special Education services will be offered to all students who are eligible.
Are extra curricular activities/sports available to ZQuest students?
Yes. All 6-8th grade students will be eligible to participate in extra curricular activities, including sports, plays, and clubs, at Creekside Middle School.
Various clubs and enrichment opportunities are also offered to ZQuest students in gradse K-8 throughout the year, including chess club, Lego club, and yearbook club.
Where do students go after graduating from ZQuest?
Students who stay at ZQuest through middle school go on to Zeeland East or West High Schools.
ZQuest graduates credit their middle school experience with not only preparing them for advanced courses in high school, but for inspiring career goals and providing the confidence to apply to and attend their dream colleges and/or career.
Want to enroll or tour?
Families interested in enrolling at ZQuest are encouraged to contact the school to set up a tour in order to learn more about us and see our learning style in action! You can call 616-748-3050 to set up your tour.
Want to enroll? Visit the enrollment information below:
What assessments are done? How often?
Assessment is an important part of each unit of inquiry as it both enhances learning and provides opportunities for students to reflect on what they know, understand, and can do. ZQuest follows Zeeland Public School’s assessment schedule, and assesses students using many of the same tools (i.e. DIBELS, M-Step, STAR Reading and Math, etc).
What type of technology will be offered in the school (computers, etc)?
The same technology roll outs (iPads, Chromebooks, Smart Boards, etc) that happen throughout ZPS also happen at ZQuest. Currently, all students in K-2 have 1:1 district-provided iPads, while all students in 3-8 have 1:1 district-provided Chromebooks. The K-2 classrooms also have Smartboards. An additional set of classroom Chromebooks is also available to students.
Where is ZQuest located?
ZQuest is considered a School-within-a-School. ZQuest is located within a wing of Roosevelt Elementary School at:
175 W. Roosevelt Ave,
Zeeland, MI 49464.