Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. Average Kentwood Public Schools hourly pay ranges from approximately $11.41 per hour for Childcare Provider to $17.80 per hour for Site Coordinator. Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always been important, Madden said. The first-round interviews will take place April 28-29. Must include 3 out of 4 of the following. Kentwood Public Schools is the most diverse district in the state, which is part of what makes it so special, . I don't live in Kentwood Public School's district but I want my student to attend. Kentwood Public Schools taps nearby district leader Kevin Polston, of Godfrey-Lee, to be next superintendent, Michigan State University teams up with elementary school to help teachers with virtual classrooms, Thousands of Michigan students will get free WiFi hotspots and internet for remote learning. School leaders describe the district as a global community school with over 90 languages spoken, representing multiple cultures, races, ethnicities, and religions. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. The Capturing Kids Hearts program that guides staff members and teachers in their work with our students will continue in the year ahead. When I began my career in 1988, I was proud to be a Kentwood Public Schools teacher, he said. With a strong leadership team, we are expecting the transition to be seamless.. Polston was hired in 2017 to lead neighboring Godfrey-Lee schools. This district's average testing ranking is 7/10, which is in the top 50% of public schools in Michigan. Updated: 6:08 PM EDT May 25, 2022. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. K . 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. We know our children will make the world a better place! Sparta    The Kent ISD School Board recently announced the appointment of Sylvia James to fill the opening on the board created when Bill Joseph retired. Budget and Salary/Compensation Transparency Reporting, Tips for Parents and Staff When Dealing with Trauma. IF requested by the candidate, materials will be treated confidentially through the screening process. 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. Private Junior High School. Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). Superintendent. Our community understands the link between quality schools and safe and stable neighborhoods, Zoerhoff said. Excellence and equity: Kentwood Public Schools is a global district with a commitment to excellence and equity in all that we do. Many students at Godfrey-Lee, and across Michigan, struggle with remote learning challenges due to unreliable internet connect. 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. Get the latest updates for emergency drills at your child's building. The Facts 94% Kentwood Two finalists will interview for superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Wednesday, May 5. Administration We are a thriving global community, a vibrant example of different perspectives and traditions growing and excelling together. Interested candidates should complete and submit an online application found at https://masb.myrevelus.com/. Links to organizations and articles to aid in dealing with trauma. 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. 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. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools has selected its next superintendent. 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. 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. 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. 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. Please do not enter the building. 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. Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with 9,242 students enrolled this school year. Staff - Kentwood Public Schools Staff Staff Quick Links We are proud to have you as part of the Kentwood Public Schools family! "Capturing Kids' Hearts" will assist staff in creating positive and meaningful relationships within the school community. Finally, after the COVID challenges of the past year and a half, I am excited that we can continue in-person learning in the fall of 2021. She will interview at 7:15 p.m. (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. He also was a teacher, coach, principal, and assistant principal in the district. Polston also successfully applied Godfrey-Lee for a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation to provide at-risk students with free mobile hotspots and internet connectivity to help with remote learning. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Conduct prejudicial to the Kentwood Public School District In the event the Board determines to bring charges against the Superintendent, prior written notice of the charges shall be given to the Superintendent and the Superintendent, at his option, may request an open or closed hearing before the Board for the purpose of defending said charges. 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. In the coming weeks, our district and building leaders will share specific information about our upcoming back-to-school activities. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. Mr. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. Gretchen Whitmer at Meadowlawn Elementary in Kentwood Public Schools on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2019. 7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. 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. Byron Center   If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. We are a child-centered environment We expect our students to work hard and excel. 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. Go tohttps://www.kentwoodps.org/ourdistrict/boardofeducation/and click on the link at that time to watch the board meeting and interviews. 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.. Places nearby. The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. Sparta    This is a school district where students were born in over 60 different countries and over 80 different languages are spoken! From home, please follow these instructions: Go to https://sso.kentwoodps.org/adfs/portal/updatepassword. (Photo provided by Kevin Polston). Even at the end of my career, that pride of teaching still remains. Instead of 11111, use your employee ID#. 17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Our goal is for each student to master and apply the essential skills to be a successful, productive citizen. Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with more than 9,000 students. Parents allow us to work with their most precious gift - and we are thankful for their confidence and support. KENTWOOD, Mich. Kentwood Public Schools (KPS) will be tightening security at Thursday's East Kentwood High School graduation. Polston has served as superintendent of Godfrey-Lee schools since 2017.. 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. Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. The Board of Education selected as finalists: Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. The average Kentwood Public Schools daily wage ranges from approximately $89.83 per day for Academic Interventionist to $92.20 per day for Teacher. As a district, in partnership with our community, we will continue to provide an education of excellence to every Kentwood student. Kent City    (Cory Morse | MLive.com)Cory Morse | MLive.com. Kent ISD's New Strategic Plan Learn more about LEAD, Kent ISD's new strategic plan, and our updated Vision, Mission and Values. The district website (kentwoodps.org) will have viewing instructions and more information. Kentwood Public Schools; Lowell Area Schools; Northview Public Schools; Rockford Public Schools; . 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. Check out the calendar, talk with peers, give us a "like" or a follow on Facebook and more. He is a systems thinker and a systems designer. 3. Kent ISD    GPS Longitude:-85.643473. Grand Rapids    The. To accommodate proper social distancing, the Board of Education asks that interested persons RSVP to attend the interviews in person by emailing: interviews@kentwoodps.org. Lowell    3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. 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. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. 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. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. 113 were here. Thank you to the many parents and community members who have already reached out with warm words of support and affirmation. Thornapple Kellogg    There will also be an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the administration building during the interviews. Your Email: In addition, and most importantly, our students' positive self concepts and winning attitudes will make you glad to call Kentwood your home! I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. Kentwood Public School Dist . Polston has led Godfrey-Lee as its superintendent since 2017, and previously worked as a teacher, principal and curriculum specialist. She is an award-winning journalist who got her start as the education reporter for the Grand Haven Tribune. He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Click on the above link(s) for additional information. 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. Kentwood    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.. Last Name: Mar. This diverse environment uniquely prepares our students to be globally competitive in their chosen lifes pursuits after graduation. Polston brings experienced and proven leadership to Kentwood Public Schools. East Grand Rapids    2023 Advance Local Media LLC. All rights reserved (About Us). 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. KENTWOOD, MI The Kentwood Board of Education will interview six candidates this month in the search for the districts next superintendent. Zoerhoff was named superintendent in 2013 and has worked in the district for 33 years. 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. 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. Polston, who has been. 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. 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. 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. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced in November that he would retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year. Mar. Date. Last year he served as a member of Gov. 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. 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. Positive relationships provide the strength to meet high expectations and tackle what feels like the impossible. For the 2023 school year, there are 16 public schools serving 9,085 students in Kentwood Public Schools School District. 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. 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. The safety of our employees and community members remains the primary concern for Kentwood Public Schools. We know a strong connection between teachers and students is the first step in creating a safe and positive school environment. 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. Compensation will be commensurate with experience of the successful candidate and requirements of the position. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. 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. 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. 13: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 5 pm, Apr. Thornapple Kellogg    Six candidates were interviewed April 28 and 29. If you are coming into school you can change it at your PC. 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. 24: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Benefits Information Frontline Login Google Apps Synergy SIS COVID-19 Self Diagnosis 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. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. This link will go live at approximately 5:45 p.m. the day of the interviews. Our candidate pool was exceptionally strong and our internal leadership team is outstanding, said board president Mimi Madden. We are committed to excellence, equity, and diversity in education. IMPORTANT: If you answer yes to any of the questions below, please contact your immediate supervisor for further direction. She is fascinated by the nuances of language, loves to travel and has strong feelings about the Oxford comma. School board president Mimi Madden said the board is looking forward to the new superintendent joining Kentwood Public Schools. Cedar Springs    Grit:Our students have the inner strength and intellectual capability to meet and rise above lifes challenges. Last Name: Mar. Office of the Superintendent. 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.). This community values both quality facilities and the hard work of our teachers and staff members.. Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. On behalf of our entire staff and the Board of Education, I would like to welcome you to our school community. Kent ISD    The window for school of choice applications opens April 10th and you can apply by going to school of choice under the student enrollment at the top of this page. Graham, who has worked at Jenison for 22 years, will replace retiring superintendent Tom TenBrink on July 1, 2021. A graduate of Central Michigan University, she has written for The Grand Rapids Press, Advance Newspapers, On-the-Town Magazine and Group Tour Media. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. GPS Latitude: 42.858551. Follow us on Facebook; Follow us on Twitter/span> . Positive relationships and high expectations:Positive relationships provide the support needed to overcome difficult life circumstances. Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. 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. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. Godfrey-Lee    He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Norris ken@wktv.org Retired Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Caledonia, Michigan, United States. 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. You will now have one password for multiple accounts. Cedar Springs    We are a "no-excuse" district. Browse reviews, directions, phone numbers and more info on Kentwood Public Schools. Norris ken@wktv.org Godfrey-Lee    Mar. Report . 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). You can apply for school of choice to have your student attend with us in the fall. 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. Mar. I am so excited to join our diverse global Kentwood community. While there have been some leadership changes at Kentwood Public Schools, some things will not change. Caledonia    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. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. 5820 Eastern Ave. 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. She has worked as a journalist in the Grand Rapids area since 2000. Internal network link ONLY This server does not have access outside of the KPS Network for security reasons. 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 field with [emailprotected] can be in the following formats. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff. In addition to accepting Zoerhoffs retirement announcement, the Board of Education will establish a superintendent search process. Join to connect Kentwood Public Schools. Grand Rapids Community College    Rockford    21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. Mr. Northview    Zoerhoff, who announced in November he was retiring June 30, was named Kentwoods superintendent in 2013. 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. The superintendent led Godfrey-Lee Public Schools through a tumultuous school year amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Although Zoerhoff will be retiring as superintendent, his two children will continue to attend Kentwood Public Schools and his family plans to remain within the Kentwood community. Godwin Heights    Both will report directly to new Superintendent Kevin Polston, according to an announcement from the district. 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. According to the announcement, interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave., in Kentwood. Gretchen Whitmers Return to Learn Advisory Council, and in February was appointed chairperson of the governors statewide Student Recovery Advisory Council. A preliminary salary range of $180,000 to $220,000 has been established.