If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. There will also be an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the administration building during the interviews. 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. 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. In addition to the salary, the school board will also contribute $20,450 annually to a tax-deferred annuity for Polston. The first-round interviews will take place April 28-29. Kentwood Public Schools are the Heart of the Community. Superintendent at Kentwood Public Schools Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States 865 followers 500+ connections Join to view profile Kentwood Public Schools Michigan State University. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. Sparta    Kentwood Public Schools is proud to announce the inaugural year of Kentwood International Virtual Academy (KIVA). 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. Join to connect Kentwood Public Schools. Northview    The athletic achievements, music, art, and theater experiences further develop our students into well-rounded individuals. While there have been some leadership changes at Kentwood Public Schools, some things will not change. Candidate names will become public at the time an interview is scheduled. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. This community values both quality facilities and the hard work of our teachers and staff members.. 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. 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. 10: Wyoming City Council Work Session, 5:30 pm, Apr. Cedar Springs    Office of the Superintendent. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. 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. Comstock Park    Grand Valley State University. Godwin Heights    K . (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. "Veronica . He had previously been the districts assistant superintendent for human resources. The field with [emailprotected] can be in the following formats. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff. Completed online applications must be submitted no later than 4:00 pm on April 6, 2021. Grand Rapids    Erin Albanese is associate managing editor and reporter, covering Byron Center, Kentwood, Wyoming and Grand Rapids Community College. Mar. GPS Longitude:-85.643473. Both will report directly to new Superintendent Kevin Polston, according to an announcement from the district. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Kent ISD    Many students at Godfrey-Lee, and across Michigan, struggle with remote learning challenges due to unreliable internet connect. On May 6, the Kentwood Board of Education selected Polston from a pool of six finalist candidates who interviewed to be the new superintendent. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. The safety of our employees and community members remains the primary concern for Kentwood Public Schools. 21: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Polston was hired in 2017 to lead neighboring Godfrey-Lee schools. 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 In a unanimous vote, the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education has selected Kevin Polston to serve as its next superintendent. 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. In the coming months, I look forward to listening and learning in our Kentwood community as I engage with parents, students, teachers, and staff in a range of forums. The average Kentwood Public Schools daily wage ranges from approximately $89.83 per day for Academic Interventionist to $92.20 per day for Teacher. City of Kentwood meetings are available by clickinghere. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. 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. 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. Our promise to our parents is to keep them excited about their students' academic accomplishments and awards. He will receive a longevity stipend of $12,860 for each year of the contract. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. 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. School leaders describe the district as a global community school with over 90 languages spoken, representing multiple cultures, races, ethnicities, and religions. Forest Hills    In the coming month, we will establish a direction that maintains this tradition and identifies our next steps.. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. 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. 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. Norris ken@wktv.org Places nearby. Kentwood Public Schools are the Heart of the Community. Forest Hills    There is also an option for limited in-person seating and viewing opportunities at the Administration Building during the interviews. Listening and being responsive to our Kentwood community, both internal and external, has always been important, Madden said. The "Confirm new password" field is the same password that was entered into the New password field As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Kentwood Public School Dist . 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. She is an award-winning journalist who got her start as the education reporter for the Grand Haven Tribune. (Photo provided by Kevin Polston). 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. 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. 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 board will begin contract. Action. Links to organizations and articles to aid in dealing with trauma. Polston has served as superintendent of Godfrey-Lee schools since 2017. This diverse environment uniquely prepares our students to be globally competitive in their chosen lifes pursuits after graduation. 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.. 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. Click on the above link(s) for additional information. Polston has served as superintendent of Godfrey-Lee schools since 2017.. Browse reviews, directions, phone numbers and more info on Kentwood Public Schools. 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. Positive relationships and high expectations:Positive relationships provide the support needed to overcome difficult life circumstances. Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with more than 9,000 students. His salary will reopen to be determined by mutual agreement with the board in his third year. A preliminary salary range of $180,000 to $220,000 has been established. Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, Michigan Association of School Boards, at 517.327.5928 or jbennett@masb.org. Kentwood Two finalists will interview for superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Wednesday, May 5. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23, a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation. Last Name: Mar. 21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is preparing to retire. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. Positive relationships provide the strength to meet high expectations and tackle what feels like the impossible. She was one of the original SNN staff writers, helping launch the site in 2013 and enjoys fulfilling the mission of sharing the stories of public education. Byron Center   He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Six candidates will interview for the open role of Kentwood Public Schools superintendent. Interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave. 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. Polston said he is eager to start building relationships within the Kentwood community. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. Kentwood is the third largest district in Kent and Ottawa counties with 9,242 students enrolled this school year. Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is retiring June 30 after eight years in the role. Even at the end of my career, that pride of teaching still remains. It is my honor to write to you as the new Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools! 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. Mr. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools has selected its next superintendent. Grandville    No hard copy, fax or emailed copies accepted. Internal network link ONLY This server does not have access outside of the KPS Network for security reasons. 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. Caledonia    Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. Superintendent; Service Catalog; Pupil Membership Services; School Board. Grand Rapids Community College    Sparta    He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. 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. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. Kentwood    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 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. Kent ISD    Polstons base salary will increase to $211,500 in the second year of his contract. East Grand Rapids    The superintendent led Godfrey-Lee Public Schools through a tumultuous school year amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Interested candidates should complete and submit an online application found at https://masb.myrevelus.com/. Mar. Your Email: Education in Kentwood is about capturing the excitement of children to learn and to inspire them to believe in the value of ALL human beings. KENTWOOD, 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. In addition to accepting Zoerhoffs retirement announcement, the Board of Education will establish a superintendent search process. 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. View All. Kentwood Public Schools are the heart of the community. On behalf of our entire staff and the Board of Education, I would like to welcome you to our school community. From home, please follow these instructions: Go to https://sso.kentwoodps.org/adfs/portal/updatepassword. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. She is fascinated by the nuances of language, loves to travel and has strong feelings about the Oxford comma. Network passwords will be synced with Gmail, Synergy, and eFinance accounts. IMPORTANT: If you answer yes to any of the questions below, please contact your immediate supervisor for further direction. 3. 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. 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. It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. 17: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Polston, who is currently the superintendent for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools in Wyoming, has been an educator for almost two decades. 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. Last Name: Mar. Show Like Word Matches. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. A Calvin University graduate, she later returned to Calvin to help manage its national writing festival. Go tohttps://www.kentwoodps.org/ourdistrict/boardofeducation/and click on the link at that time to watch the board meeting and interviews. Grand Rapids Community College    Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Public School Kentwood Public Schools | Kentwood MI Kentwood Public Schools, together with parents and the community will educate all students in a safe, secure environment. 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. 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.. 5820 Eastern Ave. Thornapple Kellogg    To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the potential risk of exposure to our employees and visitors, all staff are required to complete a daily screening questionnaire at or before the beginning of your work day. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Polston has led Godfrey-Lee as its superintendent since 2017, and previously worked as a teacher, principal and curriculum specialist. 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. GPS Latitude: 42.858551. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. Our goal is for each student to master and apply the essential skills to be a successful, productive citizen. Kent ISD's New Strategic Plan Learn more about LEAD, Kent ISD's new strategic plan, and our updated Vision, Mission and Values. Zoerhoff was named superintendent in 2013 and has worked in the district for 33 years. Kentwood Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff announced in November that he would retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year. School board president Mimi Madden said the board is looking forward to the new superintendent joining Kentwood Public Schools. 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.. SE. Polston, who has been. 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. In the coming weeks, our district and building leaders will share specific information about our upcoming back-to-school activities. Thornapple Kellogg    7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. Check out the calendar, talk with peers, give us a "like" or a follow on Facebook and more. Grit:Our students have the inner strength and intellectual capability to meet and rise above lifes challenges. Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. "Capturing Kids' Hearts" will assist staff in creating positive and meaningful relationships within the school community. City of Wyoming meetings are live on Comcast Channel 26 or click here. I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. For the 2023 school year, there are 16 public schools serving 9,085 students in Kentwood Public Schools School District. 2. School leaders noted that Polstons commitment to West Michigans public schools reflects his passion for education and the importance of community partnerships. 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. . 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). All rights reserved (About Us). Budget and Salary/Compensation Transparency Reporting, Tips for Parents and Staff When Dealing with Trauma. (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. He will earn a starting salary of $204,500 when he takes the reins on July 1. 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. (Cory Morse | MLive.com)Cory Morse | MLive.com. 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. summer break (F), Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. The school board unanimous voted to offer Kevin Polston the job. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. What do I do? Gretchen Whitmer at Meadowlawn Elementary in Kentwood Public Schools on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2019. 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. The Facts 94% We are focused on ensuring that every student has an opportunity to develop academically and socially in a positive educational environment. He is a systems thinker and a systems designer. Zoerhoff said when he announced his retirement that its been an honor and a privilege to serve Kentwood Public Schools for three decades. Mar. 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. Six candidates were interviewed April 28 and 29. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. Social distancing guidelines will be followed and there will be limited options for in-person seating. Godfrey-Lee    Must include 3 out of 4 of the following. Search Form Quick Search: Search. 318 followers 314 connections. 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. Before coming to Godfrey-Lee, Polston was a teacher and principal at Grand Haven Area Public Schools, according to his LinkedIn profile. 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. Lowell    Kenowa Hills    Our Families are an integral and valued part of the Education of our Students. Thank you to the many parents and community members who have already reached out with warm words of support and affirmation. Kentwood Public Schools has a very bright future.. Average Kentwood Public Schools hourly pay ranges from approximately $11.41 per hour for Childcare Provider to $17.80 per hour for Site Coordinator. We know our children will make the world a better place! Excellence and equity: Kentwood Public Schools is a global district with a commitment to excellence and equity in all that we do. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this community over the past thirty three years, Superintendent Zoerhoff said in supplied material. Follow us on Facebook; Follow us on Twitter/span> . Gretchen Whitmers Return to Learn Advisory Council, and in February was appointed chairperson of the governors statewide Student Recovery Advisory Council. In this MLive file photo, Julie Brill talks to her 2nd grade class after visiting with Gov. He also was a teacher, coach, principal, and assistant principal in the district. A graduate of Central Michigan University, she has written for The Grand Rapids Press, Advance Newspapers, On-the-Town Magazine and Group Tour Media. James is also serving as Trustee on the Board of Education for Kentwood Public Schools. 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. 24: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. Community members, staff and students are encouraged to watch the interviews online as they take place. 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.