Administrative Team

Steve States - Principal

I’m Steve States, and it is my honor to serve as the principal at Grand River Academy. I started in Education in 1999 and have been in the school district for 25 years. I have been a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and central office leader. I have a BS in Environmental Restoration and Waste Management, a BS in Biology, Teaching Certification, and an MA in Educational Leadership.  I like to fish, hike, camp, read, scale model, garden, and spend time with my family in my spare time. I love the work I do because I am able to support students and staff so that they can be successful.  I take this responsibility seriously, and I feel that providing our students with a nurturing, safe, and rigorous learning environment is the most important thing we can do for them. 

Grand River Academy focuses on the needs of the whole child.  We know that learning won’t take place if students don’t feel safe and like they belong in the school environment (even online).  Relationships with students are key to making sure students feel this way.  Our teachers work hard to build and nurture relationships with their students. That may be through our advisory classes, where students work on social and emotional learning (SEL) as well as get academic advising in grades 6-12.  It could be the work our elementary teachers do around SEL and integrating that into their everyday work with students. It could be one-on-one meetings with students.  We have many ways to connect with our students.  When we have those relationships, we can get to the business of the rigorous learning that we know you want for your child.

Grand River Academy stands out for its unique learning opportunities. We offer the flexibility of 100% online learning or blended learning, allowing families to choose the mode that best suits their child’s educational needs. We take pride in delivering a positive online learning experience for both students and their families.  We encourage you to explore our website and other resources to determine if Grand River Academy is right for your family
 

Linnea Watson - Assistant Principal

My name is Linnea Watson. I have been an educator in District 51 for 25 years, where I have served as a teacher, coach, and assistant principal. I have my BS in Biology, MA in Special Education, and Doctorate in Educational Leadership. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 36 years. We have two adult children, their spouses and a beautiful granddaughter. I love reading, painting, going on walks and all things Harry Potter. My favorite part about being an educator is building relationships with students and their families, and watching them grow and fall in love with learning! I also enjoy helping previously unengaged students and their families find their niche and begin to engage and enjoy school again.

Grand River Academy is a great place for students and families to receive a high quality K - 12 online education from state certified teachers. While most of the students’ learning takes place at home utilizing our online curriculum; we are proud to offer both blended and virtual options that consist of a well-rounded experience including highly qualified teacher taught classes, access to a wide array of services and supports, opportunities to participate in hands-on activities, field trips, and events. At Grand River Academy, we believe that relationships are critical to student success. One of our staff goals is to improve engagement in our students by building those important relationships with our learners and their families. Grand River Academy is a great choice for families seeking an alternative option for educating their children - we hope you’ll consider joining our amazing school!