Polston has led Godfrey-Lee as its superintendent since 2017, and previously worked as a teacher, principal and curriculum specialist. It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. 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. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. 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. 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. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. There is also an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the Administration Building during the interviews. Last year he served as a member of Gov. The Kent ISD School Board recently announced the appointment of Sylvia James to fill the opening on the board created when Bill Joseph retired. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. IF requested by the candidate, materials will be treated confidentially through the screening process. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. 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. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. This follows last week's . Polston said he is eager to start building relationships within the Kentwood community. Your Email: 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. Get the latest updates for emergency drills at your child's building. 13: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 5 pm, Apr. Changes have been made to simplify password management and increase security. Click on the above link(s) for additional information. 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. A Calvin University graduate, she later returned to Calvin to help manage its national writing festival. Average Kentwood Public Schools hourly pay ranges from approximately $11.41 per hour for Childcare Provider to $17.80 per hour for Site Coordinator. The field with [emailprotected] can be in the following formats. 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. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. He also was a teacher, coach, principal, and assistant principal in the district. Compensation will be commensurate with experience of the successful candidate and requirements of the position. Grit:Our students have the inner strength and intellectual capability to meet and rise above lifes challenges. Last Name: Mar. Rockford    You can apply for school of choice to have your student attend with us in the fall. 7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. He had previously been the districts assistant superintendent for human resources. The first-round interviews will take place April 28-29. Go tohttps://www.kentwoodps.org/ourdistrict/boardofeducation/and click on the link at that time to watch the board meeting and interviews. From home, please follow these instructions: Go to https://sso.kentwoodps.org/adfs/portal/updatepassword. 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. All rights reserved (About Us). Sparta    We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. 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. Public School Kentwood Public Schools | Kentwood MI Comstock Park    Gretchen Whitmer to chair the Student Recovery Advisory Council for the state of Michigan, which has been tasked with examining how the state can help students recover. School News Network is community journalism at work, funded through the donations of our sponsors and member school districts and developed by Kent ISD. Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is retiring June 30 after eight years in the role. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Gezon Fire Station, 7 p.m. Apr. Kent City    As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. (Photo provided by Kevin Polston). Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! Budget and Salary/Compensation Transparency Reporting, Tips for Parents and Staff When Dealing with Trauma. Links to organizations and articles to aid in dealing with trauma. 5820 Eastern Ave. Polston, who is currently the superintendent for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools in Wyoming, has been an educator for almost two decades. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. For the 2023 school year, there are 16 public schools serving 9,085 students in Kentwood Public Schools School District. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Caledonia    The Facts 94% 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. 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. SE Kentwood, MI 49508P: 616.455.4400 | F: 616.455.4476, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. school year7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. summer break (M-Th)7:30 a.m. - 11:30a.m. Search Timeline. Benefits Information Frontline Login Google Apps Synergy SIS COVID-19 Self Diagnosis Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). What do I do? 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. The "New password" field is the new password that you would like to set He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. As a district, in partnership with our community, we will continue to provide an education of excellence to every Kentwood student. The. 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. Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. 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). Superintendent. 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.). The school board unanimous voted to offer Kevin Polston the job. KENTWOOD, MI The Kentwood Board of Education will interview six candidates this month in the search for the districts next superintendent. School News Network is community journalism at work, funded through the donations of our sponsors and member school districts and developed by Kent ISD. Mar. 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. 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. View All. 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. Please do not enter the building. Godwin Heights    Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. 113 were here. 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. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. The athletic achievements, music, art, and theater experiences further develop our students into well-rounded individuals. Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Calendar Nutrition Menus ParentVUE/StudentVUE Staff Employment kentwoodbond.com kentwoodbondfwc.com Facebook News & Announcements Chromebook Agreement Staff/Students-Trouble Logging In? Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. Interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave. 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. He will earn a starting salary of $204,500 when he takes the reins on July 1. Polston, who has been. Our promise to our parents is to keep them excited about their students' academic accomplishments and awards. It is my honor to write to you as the new Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools! If you are coming into school you can change it at your PC. In addition to accepting Zoerhoffs retirement announcement, the Board of Education will establish a superintendent search process. Our community understands the link between quality schools and safe and stable neighborhoods, Zoerhoff said. Administration Kent ISD    The district website (kentwoodps.org) will have viewing instructions and more information. The unanimous vote to offer the position to Superintendent Polston will continue the tradition of leadership excellence that our community has come to expect.. Thornapple Kellogg    Beth has also written for The Grand Rapids Press, Fox 17 and several West Michigan businesses and nonprofits. East Grand Rapids    On behalf of our entire staff and the Board of Education, I would like to welcome you to our school community. We are a thriving global community, a vibrant example of different perspectives and traditions growing and excelling together. Both will report directly to new Superintendent Kevin Polston, according to an announcement from the district. 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. Our candidate pool was exceptionally strong and our internal leadership team is outstanding, said board president Mimi Madden. Grand Rapids    We are proud to have you as part of the Kentwood Public Schools family! I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. Your Active Directory password may haveexpired and/or needs to be changed. 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. The average Kentwood Public Schools daily wage ranges from approximately $89.83 per day for Academic Interventionist to $92.20 per day for Teacher. 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. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. 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. Parents allow us to work with their most precious gift - and we are thankful for their confidence and support. We are a "no-excuse" district. The superintendent led Godfrey-Lee Public Schools through a tumultuous school year amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Last Name: Mar. There will also be an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the administration building during the interviews. 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    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 In a unanimous vote, the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education has selected Kevin Polston to serve as its next superintendent. Kentwood Public Schools, together with parents and the community will educate all students in a safe, secure environment. The Board of Education is working to establish a superintendent search process, said Board President Mimi Madden in a press release. Mr. The "Old password"field is the current password that has expired She has worked as a journalist in the Grand Rapids area since 2000. . You will now have one password for multiple accounts. She will interview at 7:15 p.m. Six candidates will interview for the open role of Kentwood Public Schools superintendent. 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. 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. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. The safety of our employees and community members remains the primary concern for Kentwood Public Schools. We are committed to excellence, equity, and diversity in education. Internal network link ONLY This server does not have access outside of the KPS Network for security reasons. Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. 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. Mr. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. Kent ISD's New Strategic Plan Learn more about LEAD, Kent ISD's new strategic plan, and our updated Vision, Mission and Values. Rewarding every student's achievement in a nurturing environment is important to us. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Kentwood    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 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. Kentwood    17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. The board will begin contract. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. Erin Albanese is associate managing editor and reporter, covering Byron Center, Kentwood, Wyoming and Grand Rapids Community College. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. The Capturing Kids Hearts program that guides staff members and teachers in their work with our students will continue in the year ahead. 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. Date. Lowell    He also served in 2019 as chair of the Kent Intermediate Superintendents Association Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. First Name: Places nearby. Kenowa Hills    Thank you to the many parents and community members who have already reached out with warm words of support and affirmation. Kentwood Public Schools is the most diverse district in the state, which is part of what makes it so special, . This diverse environment uniquely prepares our students to be globally competitive in their chosen lifes pursuits after graduation. No hard copy, fax or emailed copies accepted. We are a child-centered environment We expect our students to work hard and excel. 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. 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. Caledonia    I don't live in Kentwood Public School's district but I want my student to attend. 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. Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. Polston said he is humbled and honored to be chosen to serve as Kentwoods next leader. Kelloggsville    Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Six candidates were interviewed April 28 and 29. 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.. Byron Center   Lowell    Thornapple Kellogg    This is true for students, staff, and especially for leaders. City of Wyoming meetings are live on Comcast Channel 26 or click here. It is with a sense of sadness but also deep gratitude that I retire from this wonderful profession.. Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always been important, Madden said. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. 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. In the coming weeks, our district and building leaders will share specific information about our upcoming back-to-school activities. School leaders noted that Polstons commitment to West Michigans public schools reflects his passion for education and the importance of community partnerships. 21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. Superintendent at Kentwood Public Schools Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States 865 followers 500+ connections Join to view profile Kentwood Public Schools Michigan State University. 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. 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. We are focused on ensuring that every student has an opportunity to develop academically and socially in a positive educational environment. Network passwords will be synced with Gmail, Synergy, and eFinance accounts. I look forward to continuing the strong partnership between our community and Kentwood Public Schools.. The board selected Polston after final interviews with him and the other finalist, Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced in November that he would retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year. Kent ISD    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. James is also serving as Trustee on the Board of Education for Kentwood Public Schools. GPS Latitude: 42.858551. Rockford    The Jenison Board of Education unanimously selected Graham as the next. Positive relationships and high expectations:Positive relationships provide the support needed to overcome difficult life circumstances. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this community over the past thirty three years, Superintendent Zoerhoff said in supplied material. Northview    Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! 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. We will continue to consistently emphasize: 1. 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! 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 More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23, a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation. In addition to the salary, the school board will also contribute $20,450 annually to a tax-deferred annuity for Polston. 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 Two finalists will interview for superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Wednesday, May 5. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools has selected its next superintendent. Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with more than 9,000 students. Godfrey-Lee    0 miles away. Kentwood Public School Dist . Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with 9,242 students enrolled this school year. Zoerhoff, who announced in November he was retiring June 30, was named Kentwoods superintendent in 2013. Your Email: 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.