kentwood public schools superintendent search
kentwood public schools superintendent search
kentwood public schools superintendent search
Gildas LaughFest hosting pop-up shop on Saturday, GVSU to celebrate Womens History Month with campus events, Leaders, visionaries, entrepreneurs explore Grand Rapids effort to become a region tech hub, Rotary Club of Grand Rapids present annual service award to Kate Pew Wolters, Grand Rapids Ballet Schools Junior Company present Wizard of Oz, Broadway Grand Rapids announces 2023-2024 season, Joanne Bailey-Boorsma, WKTV Managing Editor, Kent County Treasurers office launches new online payment service for delinquent property taxes. 9 Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, KDL Wyoming Branch, 7 p.m. Mar.13: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Mar.20: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. He also was a teacher, coach, principal, and assistant principal in the district. Date. Zoerhoff said when he announced his retirement that its been an honor and a privilege to serve Kentwood Public Schools for three decades. We know our children will make the world a better place! Education in Kentwood is about capturing the excitement of children to learn and to inspire them to believe in the value of ALL human beings. Thirty-three percent of Kentwood students are Black, 28% are white, 15% Hispanic/Latino, 15% Asian and 7% identify as being of two or more races, according to state data. KENTWOOD, MI - Kentwood Public Schools has selected Kevin Polston, superintendent of the neighboring school district Godfrey-Lee, to take over as its next leader. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). 318 followers 314 connections. Benefits Information Frontline Login Google Apps Synergy SIS COVID-19 Self Diagnosis "Capturing Kids' Hearts" will assist staff in creating positive and meaningful relationships within the school community. Polston earned his bachelors degree in secondary education and teaching from Michigan State University and his masters in educational leadership and administration from Grand Valley State University, according to his LinkedIn profile. This follows last week's . Our goal is for each student to master and apply the essential skills to be a successful, productive citizen. Superintendent. The following interviews are scheduled for Wednesday, April 28: The following interviews are scheduled for Thursday, April 29: First-round interviews will be held in person at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave., according to the release. Mimi Madden, president of the school board, said during a November school board meeting that Zoerhoff brought stable leadership to their community and school system during the uncertain times of the coronavirus pandemic. Kentwood Public Schools has a very bright future.. She is fascinated by the nuances of language, loves to travel and has strong feelings about the Oxford comma. I am proud to be a Kentwood educator and I am proud to work with such a talented and dedicated staff., In an uncertain time, Mr. Zoerhoff has brought stable leadership to our community and our school system, Mimi Madden, president of the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education, said in supplied material. Polston has led Godfrey-Lee as its superintendent since 2017, and previously worked as a teacher, principal and curriculum specialist. He also served in 2019 as chair of the Kent Intermediate Superintendents Association Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. The athletic achievements, music, art, and theater experiences further develop our students into well-rounded individuals. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Polstons work in West Michigan reflects his passion for the power of education and the importance of strong partnerships between school systems and the communities they serve.. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Polston, who has been. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Kent ISD Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff. Kentwood Public Schools are the Heart of the Community. The board selected Polston after final interviews with him and the other finalist, Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. The Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education Aug. 9 approved two new hires to the central office team Executive Director of Elementary Education Jason Lawson and Executive Director of Student Services Veronica Lake. The interviews will be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person. Last year he served as a member of Gov. Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with 9,242 students enrolled this school year. Kentwood Public Schools 5820 Eastern Ave Se, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 | (616) 455-4400 | Website QUICK STATS Student-Teacher Ratio 18:1 Number of Schools 16 Number of Students 9,228 Overview. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. In the coming weeks, our district and building leaders will share specific information about our upcoming back-to-school activities. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Gezon Fire Station, 7 p.m. Apr. Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is retiring June 30 after eight years in the role. Mr. Zoerhoff, who announced in November he was retiring June 30, was named Kentwoods superintendent in 2013. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Browse reviews, directions, phone numbers and more info on Kentwood Public Schools. KENTWOOD, MI - The Kentwood Board of Education will interview six candidates this month in the search for the district's next superintendent. Kentwood Public Schools; Lowell Area Schools; Northview Public Schools; Rockford Public Schools; . There is also an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the Administration Building during the interviews. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. I have confidence in his approach, which makes me confident in (his) decisions and the outcomes., Noting Polstons experience and background, the board said in a statement that the new superintendent will be no stranger to the global community that KPS serves., His experience as the son of a Palestinian immigrant and first-generation college student is a story that mirrors many Kentwood families, the statement continued. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. We are a "no-excuse" district. Sharing Stories of Student Success Your Dream is Our Dream is an initiative of Kent ISD and its member districts to showcase student success stories at every step of the education journey. Network passwords will be synced with Gmail, Synergy, and eFinance accounts. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. With around 1,800 students, the district has one of the largest populations of Hispanic students in the state, with 50% of students identified as English language learners. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this community over the past thirty three years, Superintendent Zoerhoff said in supplied material. Thornapple Kellogg Lowell Kenowa Hills While there have been some leadership changes at Kentwood Public Schools, some things will not change. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. To help students succeed with online learning, Polston championed a partnership between Godfrey-Lee Public Schools and Michigan States College of Education to provide elementary teachers with resources and strategies on how to effectively lead a virtual classroom amid the coronavirus pandemic. Grand Rapids Northview All rights reserved (About Us). 24: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Grand Valley State University. Kentwood Public School Dist . 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Gezon Fire Station, 7 p.m. Apr. Private Junior High School. Godwin Heights Please do not enter the building. I look forward to continuing the strong partnership between our community and Kentwood Public Schools.. Parents allow us to work with their most precious gift - and we are thankful for their confidence and support. Compensation will be commensurate with experience of the successful candidate and requirements of the position. This link will go live at approximately 5:45 p.m. the day of the interviews. Last Name: Mar. Scheduled to be interviewed on Wednesday, April 28, are Tracy Reed, chief academic officer at Fort Wayne (Indiana) Community Schools (at 6 p.m.); Marcus Davenport, Ph.D., superintendent of Beecher Community Schools (7 p.m.), and Kevin Polston, Ed.S., superintendent, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools (8 p.m.). The Board of Education, and the Michigan Association of School Boards, which is assisting the search, announced today, April 20, that the Kentwood Public Schools superintendent posting closed on April 6, with considerable interest and 31 applicants, and Board of Education has selected the six candidates for first-round interviews. Gretchen Whitmer at Meadowlawn Elementary in Kentwood Public Schools on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2019. From home, please follow these instructions: Go to https://sso.kentwoodps.org/adfs/portal/updatepassword. Erin Albanese is associate managing editor and reporter, covering Byron Center, Kentwood, Wyoming and Grand Rapids Community College. In February, Polston was appointed by Gov. The "Old password"field is the current password that has expired Grandville Polston brings experienced and proven leadership to Kentwood Public Schools. Cedar Springs Your Email: Instead of 11111, use your employee ID#. In the Nov. 12 announcement, Zoerhoff offered appreciation to the KPS Board of Education, the Kentwood community, district staff, and, of course, all the students he has worked with and for over the years. She will interview at 7:15 p.m. Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff has announced that at the end of this school year he will retire after 33 years as a teacher, coach, principal and district administrator working with students all along. Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation Booster Programs Volunteers Aquatics Center KPS Community Resources McKinney-Vento search District Home search Search Search Website Search Options Show Exact Word Matches Only. Changes have been made to simplify password management and increase security. Sparta Mar. The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. Positive relationships and high expectations:Positive relationships provide the support needed to overcome difficult life circumstances. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. The. Zoerhoff, however, credited district success to students, staff and parents working together for excellence, especially in community support to pass bonds and millages, which improved the facilities and increased safety. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! Kentwood Two finalists will interview for superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Wednesday, May 5. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. "Veronica . Forest Hills Report . YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. Our promise to our parents is to keep them excited about their students' academic accomplishments and awards. The candidates selected by the board for interviews include two Kentwood administrators and four school leaders from districts in Kalamazoo, Wyoming, Flint and Indiana, including two current superintendents. Polston, who is currently the superintendent for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools in Wyoming, has been an educator for almost two decades. KENTWOOD, MI The Kentwood Board of Education will interview six candidates this month in the search for the districts next superintendent. Polston said he is humbled and honored to be chosen to serve as Kentwoods next leader. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. I believe that education has the power to transform lives and I am pleased to join a district with an enduring commitment to excellence and equity, Polston said in a prepared statement. I believe (Polston) has a clear vision, and his goal to change the trajectory of kids lives resonates with me, said Pete Battey, board treasurer, during final discussion after second-round interviews Wednesday evening. "Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always . Beth Heinen Bell is a reporter (covering Cedar Springs, Grandville, Lowell and Rockford), editor, copy editor and social media manager. There will also be an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the administration building during the interviews. Links to organizations and articles to aid in dealing with trauma. Kentwood Public Schools announced this week that after 33 years of service in the district Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff plans to retire on June 30, 2021, at the conclusion of the 2020-21 school year. High expectations and a growth mindset: Kentwood Grit means that we have a growth mindset coupled with high expectations and this encourages every student to succeed and develop socially, emotionally, and academically. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. Office of the Superintendent. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. As a district, in partnership with our community, we will continue to provide an education of excellence to every Kentwood student. GPS Longitude:-85.643473. Kentwood 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Kentwood Since the pandemic hit in March 2020, seven area districts had superintendents announce they are retiring, including Holland, Kentwood, Jenison, West Ottawa, Lowell, and the Kent and Ottawa ISDs. Scheduled to be interviewed on Thursday, April 29, are Evan Hordyk, executive director of secondary education, Kentwood Public Schools (6 p.m.); Nkenge Bergan, director of student services, Kalamazoo Public Schools (7 p.m.); and Jamie Gordon, executive director of human resources, Kentwood Public Schools (8 p.m.). Godfrey-Lee Budget and Salary/Compensation Transparency Reporting, Tips for Parents and Staff When Dealing with Trauma. Kentwood Public Schools loves to have our team connected! The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. KPS Superintendent Search Input: Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, Staff and Kentwood Community Members: The Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education has begun the process of soliciting. According to the announcement, interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave., in Kentwood. Caledonia (Cory Morse | MLive.com)Cory Morse | MLive.com. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. The Board will offer a comprehensive, multi-year contract. Grandville School board president Mimi Madden said the board is looking forward to the new superintendent joining Kentwood Public Schools. The school board unanimous voted to offer Kevin Polston the job. Second round interviews/First Opportunity for Board Selection of Superintendent, Second Opportunity for Board Selection of Superintendent, Interested candidates should complete and submit an online application found at, All questions regarding the search should be directed to Jay D. Bennett, Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or. Polston has served as superintendent of Godfrey-Lee schools since 2017. Central to this effort is our commitment to help students develop a growth mindset that reflects high expectations. Kentwood Public School teachers and administrators today will be discussing the districts long range diversity strategic plan to meet the needs of its increasingly diverse student body. Grand Rapids Community College Polston, currently superintendent for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, will take the reins from Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff, who retires June 30 after eight years in the role. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced in November that he would retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year. Lowell Our community understands the link between quality schools and safe and stable neighborhoods, Zoerhoff said. School News Network is community journalism at work, funded through the donations of our sponsors and member school districts and developed by Kent ISD. The Board of Education, and the Michigan Association of School Boards, which is assisting the search, announced today, April 20, that the Kentwood Public Schools superintendent posting closed on April 6, "with considerable interest and 31 applicants," and Board of Education has selected the six candidates for first-round interviews. Grand Rapids Community College Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. Thornapple Kellogg I look forward to listening and learning from each of you in the weeks and months ahead to continue the education of excellence that is expected in Kentwood Public Schools. The Facts 94% Even at the end of my career, that pride of teaching still remains. This is a school district where students were born in over 60 different countries and over 80 different languages are spoken! 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. The "New password" field is the new password that you would like to set Godfrey-Lee In this MLive file photo, Julie Brill talks to her 2nd grade class after visiting with Gov. Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Job Type: Superintendent: Member Organization: Kentwood Public Schools - Kent: Consultant: Jay Bennett: Status: Complete: . Kentwood Public Schools is the most diverse district in the state, which is part of what makes it so special, . In addition, and most importantly, our students' positive self concepts and winning attitudes will make you glad to call Kentwood your home! With a strong leadership team, we are expecting the transition to be seamless.. Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. Mar. The first-round interviews will take place April 28-29. Thank you to the many parents and community members who have already reached out with warm words of support and affirmation.