He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. 21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. Comstock Park    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. Norris ken@wktv.org We are a "no-excuse" district. Zoerhoff was named superintendent in 2013 and has worked in the district for 33 years. 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. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. 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. Links to organizations and articles to aid in dealing with trauma. She is fascinated by the nuances of language, loves to travel and has strong feelings about the Oxford comma. 21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. He had previously been the districts assistant superintendent for human resources. Kentwood    . 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 jbennett@masb.org. Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). This is true for students, staff, and especially for leaders. Zoerhoff said when he announced his retirement that its been an honor and a privilege to serve Kentwood Public Schools for three decades. Interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave. We are proud to have you as part of the Kentwood Public Schools family! 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. 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.). You can apply for school of choice to have your student attend with us in the fall. Kentwood Two finalists will interview for superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Wednesday, May 5. 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.. Kent ISD's New Strategic Plan Learn more about LEAD, Kent ISD's new strategic plan, and our updated Vision, Mission and Values. Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. In the coming weeks, our district and building leaders will share specific information about our upcoming back-to-school activities. Grand Valley State University. School News Network is community journalism at work, funded through the donations of our sponsors and member school districts and developed by Kent ISD. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Gezon Fire Station, 7 p.m. Apr. The "Old password"field is the current password that has expired 0 miles away. Please do not enter the building. This follows last week's . 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. Your Active Directory password may haveexpired and/or needs to be changed. SE. 13: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 5 pm, Apr. First Name: Our environment and comprehensive standards develop self-motivated students who upon graduation are ready to assume the role of responsible individuals in a global society. Grand Rapids    Changes have been made to simplify password management and increase security. 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. Comstock Park    Positive relationships provide the strength to meet high expectations and tackle what feels like the impossible. According to the announcement, interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave., in Kentwood. Your Email: Get the latest updates for emergency drills at your child's building. Many students at Godfrey-Lee, and across Michigan, struggle with remote learning challenges due to unreliable internet connect. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Our promise to our parents is to keep them excited about their students' academic accomplishments and awards. Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Job Type: Superintendent: Member Organization: Kentwood Public Schools - Kent: Consultant: Jay Bennett: Status: Complete: . Six candidates were interviewed April 28 and 29. Polston brings experienced and proven leadership to Kentwood Public Schools. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools has selected its next superintendent. The "Confirm new password" field is the same password that was entered into the New password field Thank you to the many parents and community members who have already reached out with warm words of support and affirmation. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. Our community understands the link between quality schools and safe and stable neighborhoods, Zoerhoff said. Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. 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. 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. 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. 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. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! Beth has also written for The Grand Rapids Press, Fox 17 and several West Michigan businesses and nonprofits. Staff, students and members of the public are also encouraged to learn more about the candidates at two virtual open houses on Wednesday afternoon one for Polston at 2 p.m. and one for Bergan at 3 p.m. Zoom links are available on the district website. Grandville    Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. Mar. I look forward to continuing the strong partnership between our community and Kentwood Public Schools.. Zoerhoff is one of several school leaders in Kent and Ottawa counties that announced retirement amid the coronavirus pandemic. Administration Lowell    James is also serving as Trustee on the Board of Education for Kentwood Public Schools. The Jenison Board of Education unanimously selected Graham as the next. 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. I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. Budget and Salary/Compensation Transparency Reporting, Tips for Parents and Staff When Dealing with Trauma. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. 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. 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. 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. It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. There is also an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the Administration Building during the interviews. Grit:Our students have the inner strength and intellectual capability to meet and rise above lifes challenges. Cedar Springs    No hard copy, fax or emailed copies accepted. Date. 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. 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. Even at the end of my career, that pride of teaching still remains. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. This community values both quality facilities and the hard work of our teachers and staff members.. Forest Hills    Central to this effort is our commitment to help students develop a growth mindset that reflects high expectations. Kentwood Public Schools; Lowell Area Schools; Northview Public Schools; Rockford Public Schools; . Sparta    Social distancing guidelines will be followed and there will be limited options for in-person seating. Positive relationships and high expectations:Positive relationships provide the support needed to overcome difficult life circumstances. Superintendent at Kentwood Public Schools Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States 865 followers 500+ connections Join to view profile Kentwood Public Schools Michigan State University. A Calvin University graduate, she later returned to Calvin to help manage its national writing festival. It is with a sense of sadness but also deep gratitude that I retire from this wonderful profession.. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. 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. Kelloggsville    The unanimous vote to offer the position to Superintendent Polston will continue the tradition of leadership excellence that our community has come to expect.. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Completed online applications must be submitted no later than 4:00 pm on April 6, 2021. Six candidates will interview for the open role of Kentwood Public Schools superintendent. School leaders describe the district as a global community school with over 90 languages spoken, representing multiple cultures, races, ethnicities, and religions. This district's average testing ranking is 7/10, which is in the top 50% of public schools in Michigan. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. Gretchen Whitmers Return to Learn Advisory Council, and in February was appointed chairperson of the governors statewide Student Recovery Advisory Council. This will continue during the Superintendent search process. All rights reserved (About Us). 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. Forest Hills    (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. Polston was hired in 2017 to lead neighboring Godfrey-Lee schools. The. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. The Kent ISD School Board recently announced the appointment of Sylvia James to fill the opening on the board created when Bill Joseph retired. 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. From home, please follow these instructions: Go to https://sso.kentwoodps.org/adfs/portal/updatepassword. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. 7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. 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.. Welcome to Kentwood Public Schools Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. Lowell    Rewarding every student's achievement in a nurturing environment is important to us. 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. Kentwood Public Schools loves to have our team connected! The "New password" field is the new password that you would like to set (Cory Morse | MLive.com)Cory Morse | MLive.com. KENTWOOD, Mich. Kentwood Public Schools (KPS) will be tightening security at Thursday's East Kentwood High School graduation. Kent City    27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. 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. 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. Kentwood Public Schools has a very bright future.. The superintendent led Godfrey-Lee Public Schools through a tumultuous school year amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. 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. Superintendent. 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. Strong relationships: Our teachers and staff members build strong relationships with our students; these relationships are at the heart of a positive learning environment. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Godfrey-Lee    KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is preparing to retire. Your Email: Internal network link ONLY This server does not have access outside of the KPS Network for security reasons. Search Timeline. 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. Retired Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Caledonia, Michigan, United States. The Facts 94% I don't live in Kentwood Public School's district but I want my student to attend. Polston, who has been. Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. First Name: 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. This diverse environment uniquely prepares our students to be globally competitive in their chosen lifes pursuits after graduation. Grand Rapids    On May 6, the Kentwood Board of Education selected Polston from a pool of six finalist candidates who interviewed to be the new superintendent. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. He will earn a starting salary of $204,500 when he takes the reins on July 1. 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. Updated: 6:08 PM EDT May 25, 2022. Kentwood Public School Dist . Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. 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.. Erin Albanese is associate managing editor and reporter, covering Byron Center, Kentwood, Wyoming and Grand Rapids Community College. 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. Browse reviews, directions, phone numbers and more info on Kentwood Public Schools. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! Mr. 113 were here. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23, a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation. Kentwood Public Schools are the Heart of the Community. Community members, staff and students are encouraged to watch the interviews online as they take place. 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. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation, https://sso.kentwoodps.org/adfs/portal/updatepassword, At least 8 characters in length CANNOT repeat same character more than twice in a row, CANNOT use your previous password as your new password. 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, Woodland Mall to offer Holiday Your Way options for shoppers, families this season. In addition to accepting Zoerhoffs retirement announcement, the Board of Education will establish a superintendent search process. Action. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. Network passwords will be synced with Gmail, Synergy, and eFinance accounts. Kentwood Public Schools, together with parents and the community will educate all students in a safe, secure environment. Kentwood    Calendar Nutrition Menus ParentVUE/StudentVUE Staff Employment kentwoodbond.com kentwoodbondfwc.com Facebook News & Announcements Chromebook Agreement Staff/Students-Trouble Logging In? "Capturing Kids' Hearts" will assist staff in creating positive and meaningful relationships within the school community. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. Mar. Public Schools in Kentwood Public Schools School District have an average math proficiency score of 34% (versus the . Kelloggsville    Our candidate pool was exceptionally strong and our internal leadership team is outstanding, said board president Mimi Madden. Kenowa Hills    If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Godwin Heights    Mr. The Board will offer a comprehensive, multi-year contract. 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 school board also cited Polstons background as the son of a Palestinian immigrant and a first generation college student as a story that mirrors many Kentwood families. Kent City    In February, Polston was appointed by Gov. Last Name: Mar. Caledonia    In the coming month, we will establish a direction that maintains this tradition and identifies our next steps.. GPS Latitude: 42.858551. East Grand Rapids    Report . Office of the Superintendent. In addition to the salary, the school board will also contribute $20,450 annually to a tax-deferred annuity for Polston. My personal vision of changing the world through opportunities for students is one Kentwood has carried out through the vision of Excellence and Equity in Education, he said. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. He will also receive an educational stipend of $10,500 for each year until he finishes his doctorate degree, which is scheduled to be completed on or before Dec. 31, 2022. It is my honor to write to you as the new Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools! Join to connect Kentwood Public Schools. 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. Polstons base salary will increase to $211,500 in the second year of his contract. Last Name: Mar. I am so excited to join our diverse global Kentwood community. 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. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. KENTWOOD, MI - Kentwood Public Schools has selected Kevin Polston, superintendent of the neighboring school district Godfrey-Lee, to take over as its next leader. 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. 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. Beth Heinen Bell is a reporter (covering Cedar Springs, Grandville, Lowell and Rockford), editor, copy editor and social media manager. Godwin Heights    Interested candidates should complete and submit an online application found at https://masb.myrevelus.com/. Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always been important, Madden said. 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. She will interview at 7:15 p.m. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. 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. 24: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Polston said he is humbled and honored to be chosen to serve as Kentwoods next leader. Thornapple Kellogg    17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Kent ISD    For the 2023 school year, there are 16 public schools serving 9,085 students in Kentwood Public Schools School District. All rights reserved (About Us). We are a child-centered environment We expect our students to work hard and excel. Public School Kentwood Public Schools | Kentwood MI 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. Grandville    Follow us on Facebook; Follow us on Twitter/span> . "Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always . Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced in November that he would retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year. With a strong leadership team, we are expecting the transition to be seamless.. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this community over the past thirty three years, Superintendent Zoerhoff said in supplied material. Excellence and equity: Kentwood Public Schools is a global district with a commitment to excellence and equity in all that we do. The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. Check out the calendar, talk with peers, give us a "like" or a follow on Facebook and more. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. 5820 Eastern Ave. (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D.