It is located in the Heritage Hill area and is run by the Grand Rapids Public Schools. Enrollment is limited to approximately 550 students in grades 7-12. Consequently, interested students who apply for the 7th grade, and are accepted, should plan on remaining through graduation.
City prides itself on being an alternative school which recognizes the special rights of students.
But with those rights comes a great deal of responsibility as well. Students are expected to take an active part in their own learning, as well as decision-making for themselves and for the school. Students play a decisive role in determining the direction their education takes. Students are encouraged to explore new ideas, and discussions and forums are some of the ways used to address controversial issues. City's curriculum is multicultural, further exposing students to backgrounds different from their own.