Click on the above link(s) for additional information. 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. 17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. This diverse environment uniquely prepares our students to be globally competitive in their chosen lifes pursuits after graduation. KENTWOOD, Mich. Kentwood Public Schools (KPS) will be tightening security at Thursday's East Kentwood High School graduation. (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. The. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. 13: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 5 pm, Apr. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. He is a systems thinker and a systems designer. 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.. Kentwood    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. 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. Six candidates will interview for the open role of Kentwood Public Schools superintendent. Date. Kentwood Public School Dist . Your Email: Byron Center   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. 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.. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23, a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation. When I began my career in 1988, I was proud to be a Kentwood Public Schools teacher, he said. I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. 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. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. Completed online applications must be submitted no later than 4:00 pm on April 6, 2021. Get the latest updates for emergency drills at your child's building. 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. This follows last week's . Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced in November that he would retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year. The Kent ISD School Board recently announced the appointment of Sylvia James to fill the opening on the board created when Bill Joseph retired. Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Job Type: Superintendent: Member Organization: Kentwood Public Schools - Kent: Consultant: Jay Bennett: Status: Complete: . KENTWOOD, MI The Kentwood Board of Education will interview six candidates this month in the search for the districts next superintendent. Polston said he is eager to start building relationships within the Kentwood community. 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. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Kentwood Public Schools has a very bright future.. 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. We know our children will make the world a better place! Polston, who is currently the superintendent for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools in Wyoming, has been an educator for almost two decades. 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. Sparta    Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. Our goal is for each student to master and apply the essential skills to be a successful, productive citizen. The Board of Education is working to establish a superintendent search process, said Board President Mimi Madden in a press release. Show Like Word Matches. This community values both quality facilities and the hard work of our teachers and staff members.. Search Form Quick Search: Search. East Grand Rapids    She is fascinated by the nuances of language, loves to travel and has strong feelings about the Oxford comma. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is retiring June 30 after eight years in the role. 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. 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. Lowell    Mr. Cedar Springs    School leaders noted that Polstons commitment to West Michigans public schools reflects his passion for education and the importance of community partnerships. You can apply for school of choice to have your student attend with us in the fall. 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 board will begin contract. Polston has served as superintendent of Godfrey-Lee schools since 2017.. Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always been important, Madden said. The safety of our employees and community members remains the primary concern for Kentwood Public Schools. Thornapple Kellogg    We know a strong connection between teachers and students is the first step in creating a safe and positive school environment. City of Wyoming meetings are live on Comcast Channel 26 or click here. 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. It is my honor to write to you as the new Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools! 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. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. 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. Search Timeline. Gretchen Whitmers Return to Learn Advisory Council, and in February was appointed chairperson of the governors statewide Student Recovery Advisory Council. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. He will receive a longevity stipend of $12,860 for each year of the contract. 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. All rights reserved (About Us). 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. 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. Polston was hired in 2017 to lead neighboring Godfrey-Lee schools. Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. The "Confirm new password" field is the same password that was entered into the New password field While there have been some leadership changes at Kentwood Public Schools, some things will not change. Our promise to our parents is to keep them excited about their students' academic accomplishments and awards. 113 were here. 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. Polston has led Godfrey-Lee as its superintendent since 2017, and previously worked as a teacher, principal and curriculum specialist. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. 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. The Board of Education, and the Michigan Association of School Boards, which is assisting the search, announced today, April 20, that the Kentwood Public Schools superintendent posting closed on April 6, with considerable interest and 31 applicants, and Board of Education has selected the six candidates for first-round interviews. Grand Rapids    Mar. The "New password" field is the new password that you would like to set We are proud to have you as part of the Kentwood Public Schools family! Last Name: Mar. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is preparing to retire. Thornapple Kellogg    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. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Average Kentwood Public Schools hourly pay ranges from approximately $11.41 per hour for Childcare Provider to $17.80 per hour for Site Coordinator. KENTWOOD, MI - Kentwood Public Schools has selected Kevin Polston, superintendent of the neighboring school district Godfrey-Lee, to take over as its next leader. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. Positive relationships provide the strength to meet high expectations and tackle what feels like the impossible. 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. 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. Byron Center   His salary will reopen to be determined by mutual agreement with the board in his third year. Welcome to Kentwood Public Schools Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. 5820 Eastern Ave. Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. Six candidates were interviewed April 28 and 29. Check out the calendar, talk with peers, give us a "like" or a follow on Facebook and more. Cedar Springs    Thank you to the many parents and community members who have already reached out with warm words of support and affirmation. 21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. On May 6, the Kentwood Board of Education selected Polston from a pool of six finalist candidates who interviewed to be the new superintendent. 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 link will go live at approximately 5:45 p.m. the day of the interviews. 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. Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Welcome Greetings from Farmington Public Schools! Zoerhoff was named superintendent in 2013 and has worked in the district for 33 years. Grand Rapids Community College    24: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Grandville    27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. All rights reserved (About Us). Comstock Park    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. The first-round interviews will take place April 28-29. Godfrey-Lee    The school board unanimous voted to offer Kevin Polston the job. He had previously been the districts assistant superintendent for human resources. 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. Erin Albanese is associate managing editor and reporter, covering Byron Center, Kentwood, Wyoming and Grand Rapids Community College. The Board will offer a comprehensive, multi-year contract. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. 7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Office of the Superintendent. Grand Valley State University. 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. Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. School News Network is community journalism at work, funded through the donations of our sponsors and member school districts and developed by Kent ISD. IF requested by the candidate, materials will be treated confidentially through the screening process. Kentwood Public Schools is the most diverse district in the state, which is part of what makes it so special, . I am so excited to join our diverse global Kentwood community. This will continue during the Superintendent search process. Calendar Nutrition Menus ParentVUE/StudentVUE Staff Employment kentwoodbond.com kentwoodbondfwc.com Facebook News & Announcements Chromebook Agreement Staff/Students-Trouble Logging In? Your Active Directory password may haveexpired and/or needs to be changed. Central to this effort is our commitment to help students develop a growth mindset that reflects high expectations. The average Kentwood Public Schools daily wage ranges from approximately $89.83 per day for Academic Interventionist to $92.20 per day for Teacher. 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. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. A graduate of Central Michigan University, she has written for The Grand Rapids Press, Advance Newspapers, On-the-Town Magazine and Group Tour Media. Action. 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. She is an award-winning journalist who got her start as the education reporter for the Grand Haven Tribune. In February, Polston was appointed by Gov. Compensation will be commensurate with experience of the successful candidate and requirements of the position. Polstons base salary will increase to $211,500 in the second year of his contract. Superintendent. summer break (F), 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. 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. 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. Kent City    Places nearby. Kenowa Hills    21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. "Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always . The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. Superintendent; Service Catalog; Pupil Membership Services; School Board. The athletic achievements, music, art, and theater experiences further develop our students into well-rounded individuals. 318 followers 314 connections. Sharing Stories of Student Success Your Dream is Our Dream is an initiative of Kent ISD and its member districts to showcase student success stories at every step of the education journey. Network passwords will be synced with Gmail, Synergy, and eFinance accounts. Interested candidates should complete and submit an online application found at https://masb.myrevelus.com/. 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). I don't live in Kentwood Public School's district but I want my student to attend. 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. (Photo provided by Kevin Polston). Mar. 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. First Name: 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. We are committed to excellence, equity, and diversity in education. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Even at the end of my career, that pride of teaching still remains. 2. GPS Latitude: 42.858551. I believe that education has the power to transform lives and I am pleased to join a district with an enduring commitment to excellence and equity, Polston said in a prepared statement. I 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. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Kentwood Public Schools; Lowell Area Schools; Northview Public Schools; Rockford Public Schools; . A preliminary salary range of $180,000 to $220,000 has been established. Please do not enter the building. Godwin Heights    You will now have one password for multiple accounts. Lowell    The Board of Education selected as finalists: Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. No hard copy, fax or emailed copies accepted. Go tohttps://www.kentwoodps.org/ourdistrict/boardofeducation/and click on the link at that time to watch the board meeting and interviews. 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. Norris ken@wktv.org I look forward to continuing the strong partnership between our community and Kentwood Public Schools.. This district's average testing ranking is 7/10, which is in the top 50% of public schools in Michigan. He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Superintendent at Kentwood Public Schools Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States 865 followers 500+ connections Join to view profile Kentwood Public Schools Michigan State University. The "Old password"field is the current password that has expired View All. Polston, who has been. We are focused on ensuring that every student has an opportunity to develop academically and socially in a positive educational environment. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. As a district, in partnership with our community, we will continue to provide an education of excellence to every Kentwood student. School board president Mimi Madden said the board is looking forward to the new superintendent joining Kentwood Public Schools. Beth Heinen Bell is a reporter (covering Cedar Springs, Grandville, Lowell and Rockford), editor, copy editor and social media manager. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. Northview    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.. Polston said he is humbled and honored to be chosen to serve as Kentwoods next leader. Kentwood    (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. The district announced Wednesday that Zoerhoff would leave June 30, 2021, at the end of . 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 district website (kentwoodps.org) will have viewing instructions and more information. Norris ken@wktv.org Kentwood Public Schools - Strong Schools Strong Communities - Community - Kent ISD skip to Contentskip to Navigation Search FormQuick Search:Search Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter/span> Follow us on Instagram/span> Educators Career & College Readiness Continuous Improvement Educational Technology English Learners Equity & Student Success Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. 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. A Calvin University graduate, she later returned to Calvin to help manage its national writing festival. 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. Global schools focused on excellence:We succeed on an international stage because Kentwood has a global perspective with a commitment to excellence in all that we do. From the Superintendent Superintendent's Message Dear Kentwood Community, It is my honor to write to you as the new Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools! Last year he served as a member of Gov. This is a school district where students were born in over 60 different countries and over 80 different languages are spoken! Retired Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Caledonia, Michigan, United States. Benefits Information Frontline Login Google Apps Synergy SIS COVID-19 Self Diagnosis This is true for students, staff, and especially for leaders. Comstock Park    Scheduled to be interviewed on Wednesday, April 28, are Tracy Reed, chief academic officer at Fort Wayne (Indiana) Community Schools (at 6 p.m.); Marcus Davenport, Ph.D., superintendent of Beecher Community Schools (7 p.m.), and Kevin Polston, Ed.S., superintendent, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools (8 p.m.). 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. In the coming weeks, our district and building leaders will share specific information about our upcoming back-to-school activities. Public School Kentwood Public Schools | Kentwood MI He also was a teacher, coach, principal, and assistant principal in the district. 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. The Capturing Kids Hearts program that guides staff members and teachers in their work with our students will continue in the year ahead. 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. Parents allow us to work with their most precious gift - and we are thankful for their confidence and support. Kentwood Public Schools is proud to announce the inaugural year of Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). 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. We will continue to consistently emphasize: 1. 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. Join to connect Kentwood Public Schools. Search string may not be null or blank. The board selected Polston after final interviews with him and the other finalist, Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Zoerhoff said when he announced his retirement that its been an honor and a privilege to serve Kentwood Public Schools for three decades. Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. There is also an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the Administration Building during the interviews. 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. Report . 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. It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this community over the past thirty three years, Superintendent Zoerhoff said in supplied material. For the 2023 school year, there are 16 public schools serving 9,085 students in Kentwood Public Schools School District. What do I do? Our community understands the link between quality schools and safe and stable neighborhoods, Zoerhoff said. 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.. The Jenison Board of Education unanimously selected Graham as the next.