Six candidates to interview for Kentwood Public Schools superintendent Updated: 6:08 PM EDT May 25, 2022. KENTWOOD, MI The Kentwood Board of Education recently approved a three-year contract for Kevin Polston, who will replace retiring Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff at the end of the school year. 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). Please do not enter the building. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. Must include 3 out of 4 of the following. 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. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Norris ken@wktv.org KENTWOOD, MI The Kentwood Board of Education will interview six candidates this month in the search for the districts next superintendent. Caledonia    Graham, who has worked at Jenison for 22 years, will replace retiring superintendent Tom TenBrink on July 1, 2021. Search string may not be null or blank. Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always been important, Madden said. Kentwood Public Schools trustee Sylvia James appointed to Kent ISD If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Mar. The six candidates were selected out of 31 people who applied for the position, the Michigan Association of School Boards announced in a news release Tuesday, April 20. Our goal is for each student to master and apply the essential skills to be a successful, productive citizen. 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. Superintendent at Kentwood Public Schools Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States 865 followers 500+ connections Join to view profile Kentwood Public Schools Michigan State University. 7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. With a strong leadership team, we are expecting the transition to be seamless.. Report . 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. Browse reviews, directions, phone numbers and more info on Kentwood Public Schools. I don't live in Kentwood Public School's district but I want my student to attend. Kentwood Public Schools has a very bright future.. Erin Albanese is associate managing editor and reporter, covering Byron Center, Kentwood, Wyoming and Grand Rapids Community College. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. Your Email: 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. Internal network link ONLY This server does not have access outside of the KPS Network for security reasons. Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. To accommodate proper social distancing, the Board of Education asks that you RSVP if you intend to attend the interviews in person by emailing interviews@kentwoodps.org. SE. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. The Kent ISD School Board recently announced the appointment of Sylvia James to fill the opening on the board created when Bill Joseph retired. Changes have been made to simplify password management and increase security. All rights reserved (About Us). Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. School board president Mimi Madden said the board is looking forward to the new superintendent joining Kentwood Public Schools. GPS Longitude:-85.643473. "Veronica . You can apply for school of choice to have your student attend with us in the fall. Kentwood Public Schools Search Form Quick Search: Search. Kentwood Public Schools selects Kevin Polston as next superintendent Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with more than 9,000 students. Benefits Information Frontline Login Google Apps Synergy SIS COVID-19 Self Diagnosis Cedar Springs    GPS Latitude: 42.858551. The interviews will be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person. 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. From the Superintendent - Our District - Kentwood Public Schools The Board of Education selected as finalists: Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. She is fascinated by the nuances of language, loves to travel and has strong feelings about the Oxford comma. Six candidates were interviewed April 28 and 29. View All. Beth Heinen Bell is a reporter (covering Cedar Springs, Grandville, Lowell and Rockford), editor, copy editor and social media manager. 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. The athletic achievements, music, art, and theater experiences further develop our students into well-rounded individuals. Our District - Kentwood Public Schools School leaders noted that Polstons commitment to West Michigans public schools reflects his passion for education and the importance of community partnerships. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! 21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. Average Kentwood Public Schools hourly pay ranges from approximately $11.41 per hour for Childcare Provider to $17.80 per hour for Site Coordinator. Superintendent's Office / Welcome Message - Farmington Public Schools search - Kentwood Public Schools Zoerhoff was named superintendent in 2013 and has worked in the district for 33 years. Mr. 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). 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. K . It has been an honor and privilege to serve this community over the past thirty three years, Superintendent Zoerhoff said in supplied material. The "Old password"field is the current password that has expired It is my honor to write to you as the new Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools! Superintendent; Service Catalog; Pupil Membership Services; School Board. Kentwood Public Schools is the most diverse district in the state, which is part of what makes it so special, . We are committed to excellence, equity, and diversity in education. The school board unanimous voted to offer Kevin Polston the job. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. 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. East Grand Rapids    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. The Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education will interview six finalists including two in-house candidates and the current superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools on April 28-29, to replace Michael Zoerhoff as superintendent, who will leave the position at the end of the school year. While thenumber of people who can watch the interviews in person is limiteddue to Health Department regulations, the district encourages all community members, staff and students to watch the interviews on the livestream YouTube link. This will continue during the Superintendent search process. 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. Our community understands the link between quality schools and safe and stable neighborhoods, Zoerhoff said. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. This is true for students, staff, and especially for leaders. 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. Date. 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. No hard copy, fax or emailed copies accepted. In an industry where leaders frequently change school districts, Zoerhoff spent his entire 33-year career in Kentwood Public Schools, serving as a teacher, coach, principal, assistant principal, assistant superintendent and finally as superintendent, according to the announcement. Superintendent Kevin Polston - WKTV Journal Gretchen Whitmers Return to Learn Advisory Council, and in February was appointed chairperson of the governors statewide Student Recovery Advisory Council. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. Kentwood Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI - 5820 Eastern Ave SE KENTWOOD, MI - A newcomer is seeking to unseat one of three incumbent candidates who are up for reelection to the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education in the November general. 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. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. He had previously been the districts assistant superintendent for human resources. It is a point of pride that our Kentwood alumni continually demonstrate success as they make an impact in our community and around the world. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Private Junior High School. Polston was hired in 2017 to lead neighboring Godfrey-Lee schools. 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. Zoerhoff, who announced in November he was retiring June 30, was named Kentwoods superintendent in 2013. His salary will reopen to be determined by mutual agreement with the board in his third year. KENTWOOD, Mich. Kentwood Public Schools (KPS) will be tightening security at Thursday's East Kentwood High School graduation. In addition to accepting Zoerhoffs retirement announcement, the Board of Education will establish a superintendent search process. 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. Thank you to the many parents and community members who have already reached out with warm words of support and affirmation. First Name: Community members, staff and students are encouraged to watch the interviews online as they take place. The Board of Education is working to establish a superintendent search process, said Board President Mimi Madden in a press release. The Board of Education selected as finalists: The posting for the position received 31 applicants, according to information from the Michigan Association of School Boards. Superintendent. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. There is also an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the Administration Building during the interviews. Strong relationships: Our teachers and staff members build strong relationships with our students; these relationships are at the heart of a positive learning environment. The district announced Wednesday that Zoerhoff would leave June 30, 2021, at the end of . Kentwood Public Schools is proud to announce the inaugural year of Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). In the coming weeks, our district and building leaders will share specific information about our upcoming back-to-school activities. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. She will interview at 7:15 p.m. Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). We know a strong connection between teachers and students is the first step in creating a safe and positive school environment. I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. 17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. There will also be an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the administration building during the interviews. Godfrey-Lee's Kevin Polston selected to lead Kentwood Public Schools Second-round interviews set for Kentwood superintendent - School News 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. Comstock Park    Camera offers new perspective, career goal, Loves math, wants to work in medicine with children, Students present artistic twist on being nice, New initiative aims to connect students with careers & schools with employers, District buildings promote mental health awareness, An MSU grads painful reflection: violence has turned my former green-and-white home red, https://www.kentwoodps.org/ourdistrict/boardofeducation/, Patient parapro + purposeful play = preschool progress, Civic-minded scholars delve into study of the Constitution, Student-organized college Q&A panel earns high marks. 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. May 7, 2021 Kentwood In a unanimous vote, the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education has selected Kevin Polston to serve as its next superintendent. Kent ISD    Network passwords will be synced with Gmail, Synergy, and eFinance accounts. Links to organizations and articles to aid in dealing with trauma. Jenison High School principal selected as district's next - mlive His consistent drive over the years to help all students receive an education of excellence has been a guiding light for students, parents, teachers and staff members,' she said. Grand Rapids    2023 Advance Local Media LLC. 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. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Gezon Fire Station, 7 p.m. Apr. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23, a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation. Public School Kentwood Public Schools | Kentwood MI Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. Camera offers new perspective, career goal, Loves math, wants to work in medicine with children, Students present artistic twist on being nice, New initiative aims to connect students with careers & schools with employers, District buildings promote mental health awareness, An MSU grads painful reflection: violence has turned my former green-and-white home red, Patient parapro + purposeful play = preschool progress, Civic-minded scholars delve into study of the Constitution, Student-organized college Q&A panel earns high marks. 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. Staff - Kentwood Public Schools Staff Staff Quick Links We are proud to have you as part of the Kentwood Public Schools family! Join to connect Kentwood Public Schools. She has worked as a journalist in the Grand Rapids area since 2000. 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. Kent ISD's New Strategic Plan Learn more about LEAD, Kent ISD's new strategic plan, and our updated Vision, Mission and Values. The Jenison Board of Education unanimously selected Graham as the next. 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. Public Schools in Kentwood Public Schools School District have an average math proficiency score of 34% (versus the . Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff. Even at the end of my career, that pride of teaching still remains. Kentwood In a unanimous vote, the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education has selected Kevin Polston to serve as its next superintendent. Kentwood Public Schools look to be leader, model for diversity 7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. . Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. The "Confirm new password" field is the same password that was entered into the New password field Our promise to our parents is to keep them excited about their students' academic accomplishments and awards. The first-round interviews will take place April 28-29. KENTWOOD, MI - Kentwood Public Schools has selected Kevin Polston, superintendent of the neighboring school district Godfrey-Lee, to take over as its next leader. Mar. Your Active Directory password may haveexpired and/or needs to be changed. Kent ISD Joe Cull - kentisd.org City of Wyoming meetings are live on Comcast Channel 26 or click here. In addition, and most importantly, our students' positive self concepts and winning attitudes will make you glad to call Kentwood your home! Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. The contract stipulates Polston will get 25 vacation days as well as four personal days, three floating holidays, nine calendar holidays and 15 sick days. On behalf of our entire staff and the Board of Education, I would like to welcome you to our school community. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. East Grand Rapids    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. Grand Rapids area hit by wave of school superintendent retirements amid COVID-19, Bay City school bus driver shortage has stayed stagnant through pandemic, superintendent says, 173 infected in new coronavirus outbreaks at 41 schools, says Michigans April 19 school outbreak report. Kentwood Public Schools superintendent Zoerhoff to retire at end of This district's average testing ranking is 7/10, which is in the top 50% of public schools in Michigan. First Name: James is also serving as Trustee on the Board of Education for Kentwood Public Schools. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Godwin Heights    Get the latest updates for emergency drills at your child's building. Northview    Polston said he is eager to start building relationships within the Kentwood community. Sparta    More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. Beth has also written for The Grand Rapids Press, Fox 17 and several West Michigan businesses and nonprofits. This three-year contract demonstrates the commitment of the Board of Education and Mr. Polston to the long-standing tradition of excellence at Kentwood Public Schools, Madden said in a prepared statement. Thornapple Kellogg    Kentwood Public Schools taps nearby district leader Kevin - mlive Grand Valley State University. Superintendent announces retirement after 33 years serving Kentwood You will now have one password for multiple accounts. 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. He is a systems thinker and a systems designer. Byron Center   KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is preparing to retire. Kentwood Public Schools announces two executive level hires in central To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the potential risk of exposure to our employees and visitors, all staff are required to complete a daily screening questionnaire at or before the beginning of your work day. Interview schedule announced for finalists for Kentwood Public Schools Sparta    27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Gezon Fire Station, 7 p.m. Apr. The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. This community values both quality facilities and the hard work of our teachers and staff members.. Godwin Heights    She is an award-winning journalist who got her start as the education reporter for the Grand Haven Tribune. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. He will receive a longevity stipend of $12,860 for each year of the contract. Lowell    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. In the coming months, I look forward to listening and learning in our Kentwood community as I engage with parents, students, teachers, and staff in a range of forums. I look forward to building positive relationships with staff, students, families and the community of Kentwood as we collaboratively continue the longstanding tradition of excellence.. KIVA is an online schooling option designed to meet the needs of students looking for flexible schedules and access to professional educators while performing the majority of their work at home. 2. Your Email: Kentwood Public Schools; Lowell Area Schools; Northview Public Schools; Rockford Public Schools; . 318 followers 314 connections. Polston has served as superintendent of Godfrey-Lee schools since 2017.. Byron Center   "Capturing Kids' Hearts" will assist staff in creating positive and meaningful relationships within the school community. In the coming month, we will establish a direction that maintains this tradition and identifies our next steps.. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools has selected its next superintendent. What do I do? Grandville    Superintendent Kevin Polston said in a statement to News 8, "the district has high expectations for student behavior and based upon the outcomes of the investigation, will take action in. Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Welcome Greetings from Farmington Public Schools! Northview    It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. Positive relationships provide the strength to meet high expectations and tackle what feels like the impossible. Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with 9,242 students enrolled this school year.