School leaders describe the district as a global community school with over 90 languages spoken, representing multiple cultures, races, ethnicities, and religions. 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. We know our children will make the world a better place! Kenowa Hills    The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is preparing to retire. 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. Kentwood Public Schools loves to have our team connected! 17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Welcome Greetings from Farmington Public Schools! The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. Our goal is for each student to master and apply the essential skills to be a successful, productive citizen. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23, a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. 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. The "New password" field is the new password that you would like to set All rights reserved (About Us). Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Even at the end of my career, that pride of teaching still remains. Positive relationships and high expectations:Positive relationships provide the support needed to overcome difficult life circumstances. 318 followers 314 connections. This district's average testing ranking is 7/10, which is in the top 50% of public schools in Michigan. Staff - Kentwood Public Schools Staff Staff Quick Links We are proud to have you as part of the Kentwood Public Schools family! 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. Zoerhoff was named superintendent in 2013 and has worked in the district for 33 years. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Kentwood Two finalists will interview for superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Wednesday, May 5. In addition to accepting Zoerhoffs retirement announcement, the Board of Education will establish a superintendent search process. Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. 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). We are focused on ensuring that every student has an opportunity to develop academically and socially in a positive educational environment. First Name: He also served in 2019 as chair of the Kent Intermediate Superintendents Association Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. 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. She has worked as a journalist in the Grand Rapids area since 2000. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Links to organizations and articles to aid in dealing with trauma. Thank you to the many parents and community members who have already reached out with warm words of support and affirmation. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools has selected its next superintendent. KENTWOOD, MI -- After 33 years of service to Kentwood Public Schools, Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced Wednesday, Nov. 11 that he will retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year.. Kent ISD    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. Kentwood Public Schools; Lowell Area Schools; Northview Public Schools; Rockford Public Schools; . 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Gezon Fire Station, 7 p.m. Apr. Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always been important, Madden said. The interviews will be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person. The athletic achievements, music, art, and theater experiences further develop our students into well-rounded individuals. 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. Both will report directly to new Superintendent Kevin Polston, according to an announcement from the district. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Cedar Springs    Six candidates will interview for the open role of Kentwood Public Schools superintendent. Kelloggsville    Polston has led Godfrey-Lee as its superintendent since 2017, and previously worked as a teacher, principal and curriculum specialist. In addition, and most importantly, our students' positive self concepts and winning attitudes will make you glad to call Kentwood your home! Community members, staff and students are encouraged to watch the interviews online as they take place. This is a school district where students were born in over 60 different countries and over 80 different languages are spoken! More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. 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. 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. 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. KENTWOOD, MI - Kentwood Public Schools has selected Kevin Polston, superintendent of the neighboring school district Godfrey-Lee, to take over as its next leader. 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. (Photo provided by Kevin Polston). 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. Many students at Godfrey-Lee, and across Michigan, struggle with remote learning challenges due to unreliable internet connect. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Places nearby. Administration Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Zoerhoff said when he announced his retirement that its been an honor and a privilege to serve Kentwood Public Schools for three decades. Kent City    Polston was hired in 2017 to lead neighboring Godfrey-Lee schools. In the coming month, we will establish a direction that maintains this tradition and identifies our next steps.. Sparta    A preliminary salary range of $180,000 to $220,000 has been established. Byron Center   The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. She is fascinated by the nuances of language, loves to travel and has strong feelings about the Oxford comma. He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. 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. 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. Date. We are a "no-excuse" district. Thornapple Kellogg    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. Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. As a district, in partnership with our community, we will continue to provide an education of excellence to every Kentwood student. All rights reserved (About Us). Interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. 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. 13: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 5 pm, Apr. Budget and Salary/Compensation Transparency Reporting, Tips for Parents and Staff When 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. 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. Godwin Heights    Kentwood Public Schools, together with parents and the community will educate all students in a safe, secure environment. This is true for students, staff, and especially for leaders. Caledonia    I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. Get the latest updates for emergency drills at your child's building. Report . Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Changes have been made to simplify password management and increase security. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. Kenowa Hills    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. First Name: According to the announcement, interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave., in Kentwood. 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. The Facts 94% 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. There will also be an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the administration building during the interviews. 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. Polston brings experienced and proven leadership to Kentwood Public Schools. 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. Follow us on Facebook; Follow us on Twitter/span> . Kentwood Public Schools is proud to announce the inaugural year of Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). SE. summer break (F), Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. 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. Public School Kentwood Public Schools | Kentwood MI We are committed to excellence, equity, and diversity in education. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. Last year he served as a member of Gov. With a strong leadership team, we are expecting the transition to be seamless.. Updated: 6:08 PM EDT May 25, 2022. Mar. James is also serving as Trustee on the Board of Education for Kentwood Public Schools. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. 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. 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. City of Wyoming meetings are live on Comcast Channel 26 or click here. What do I do? It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. In this MLive file photo, Julie Brill talks to her 2nd grade class after visiting with Gov. 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. (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. 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. 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. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. 21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. He will earn a starting salary of $204,500 when he takes the reins on July 1. Forest Hills    Click on the above link(s) for additional information. 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. Superintendent; Service Catalog; Pupil Membership Services; School Board. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. There is also an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the Administration Building during the interviews. Kentwood Public School Dist . Rewarding every student's achievement in a nurturing environment is important to us. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. 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. GPS Longitude:-85.643473. The average Kentwood Public Schools daily wage ranges from approximately $89.83 per day for Academic Interventionist to $92.20 per day for Teacher. 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. 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 Board of Education is working to establish a superintendent search process, said Board President Mimi Madden in a press release. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Social distancing guidelines will be followed and there will be limited options for in-person seating. A Calvin University graduate, she later returned to Calvin to help manage its national writing festival. "Veronica . Show Like Word Matches. A graduate of Central Michigan University, she has written for The Grand Rapids Press, Advance Newspapers, On-the-Town Magazine and Group Tour Media. "Capturing Kids' Hearts" will assist staff in creating positive and meaningful relationships within the school community. Candidate names will become public at the time an interview is scheduled. City of Wyoming meetings are live on Comcast Channel 26 or click here. Your Active Directory password may haveexpired and/or needs to be changed. Please do not enter the building. Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with more than 9,000 students. 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. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Internal network link ONLY This server does not have access outside of the KPS Network for security reasons. School board president Mimi Madden said the board is looking forward to the new superintendent joining Kentwood Public Schools. Cedar Springs    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.