Godfrey-Lee    I am so excited to join our diverse global Kentwood community. Copyright 2023 WKTV, All rights reserved. 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. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. When I began my career in 1988, I was proud to be a Kentwood Public Schools teacher, he said. IMPORTANT: If you answer yes to any of the questions below, please contact your immediate supervisor for further direction. Excellence and equity: Kentwood Public Schools is a global district with a commitment to excellence and equity in all that we do. The Kentwood Board of Education has approved a $204,500 starting salary for incoming superintendent Kevin Polston. KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) Kentwood Public Schools has selected its next superintendent. Polston was hired in 2017 to lead neighboring Godfrey-Lee schools. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. 24: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. 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. KENTWOOD, MI - Kentwood Public Schools has selected Kevin Polston, superintendent of the neighboring school district Godfrey-Lee, to take over as its next leader. Staff - Kentwood Public Schools Staff Staff Quick Links We are proud to have you as part of the Kentwood Public Schools family! Kentwood Public Schools selects Kevin Polston as next superintendent 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 [email protected]. Even at the end of my career, that pride of teaching still remains. Mother: East Kentwood High School student unknowingly given edible 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. 5820 Eastern Ave. It is my honor to write to you as the new Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools! Our families are an integral and valued part of the education of our students. She is an award-winning journalist who got her start as the education reporter for the Grand Haven Tribune. 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. 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. All rights reserved (About Us). 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. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23, a donation from AT&T and nonprofit Connected Nation. 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. Wyoming, Kent ISD | 2930 Knapp NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525. Superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Job Type: Superintendent: Member Organization: Kentwood Public Schools - Kent: Consultant: Jay Bennett: Status: Complete: . Internal network link ONLY This server does not have access outside of the KPS Network for security reasons. In this MLive file photo, Julie Brill talks to her 2nd grade class after visiting with Gov. This community values both quality facilities and the hard work of our teachers and staff members.. Polston has led Godfrey-Lee as its superintendent since 2017, and previously worked as a teacher, principal and curriculum specialist. 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. Please do not enter the building. Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. Sign up now to receive the latest from WKTV! School board president Mimi Madden said the board is looking forward to the new superintendent joining Kentwood Public Schools. Kentwood Public Schools has a very bright future.. Polston, who is currently the superintendent for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools in Wyoming, has been an educator for almost two decades. This diverse environment uniquely prepares our students to be globally competitive in their chosen lifes pursuits after graduation. Forest Hills    Zoerhoff is one of several school leaders in Kent and Ottawa counties that announced retirement amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Facts 94% This link will go live at approximately 5:45 p.m. the day of the interviews. 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. Comstock Park    Before coming to Godfrey-Lee, Polston was a teacher and principal at Grand Haven Area Public Schools, according to his LinkedIn profile. Interview schedule announced for finalists for Kentwood Public Schools Kent ISD's New Strategic Plan Learn more about LEAD, Kent ISD's new strategic plan, and our updated Vision, Mission and Values. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Kentwood Public Schools - Strong Schools Strong Communities - Community Godfrey-Lee    In addition to accepting Zoerhoffs retirement announcement, the Board of Education will establish a superintendent search process. In addition to the salary, the school board will also contribute $20,450 annually to a tax-deferred annuity for Polston. 13: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 5 pm, Apr. Sparta    Beth has also written for The Grand Rapids Press, Fox 17 and several West Michigan businesses and nonprofits. Zoerhoff was named superintendent in 2013 and has worked in the district for 33 years. 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. Kentwood Public Schools | Kentwood MI - Facebook Last year he served as a member of Gov. Your Email: Kentwood Public Schools look to be leader, model for diversity 13: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 5 pm, Apr. (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. 3: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, April 3: Kentwood City Commission Budget Meeting, 7 pm, Apr. 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 the coming weeks, our district and building leaders will share specific information about our upcoming back-to-school activities. 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 is a point of pride that our Kentwood alumni continually demonstrate success as they make an impact in our community and around the world. Kent City    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. Kentwood Public Schools trustee Sylvia James appointed to Kent ISD I look forward to continuing the strong partnership between our community and Kentwood Public Schools.. (Photo provided by Kevin 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 Public Schools - U.S. News Education 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. KENTWOOD, Mich. Kentwood Public Schools (KPS) will be tightening security at Thursday's East Kentwood High School graduation. Office of the Superintendent. Our candidate pool was exceptionally strong and our internal leadership team is outstanding, said board president Mimi Madden. City of Wyoming meetings are live on Comcast Channel 26 or click here. Second-round interviews set for Kentwood superintendent - School News To accommodate proper social distancing, the Board of Education asks that interested persons RSVP to attend the interviews in person by emailing: [email protected]. 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. I am confident that Kentwood Public Schools will continue to excel, he said. The Board will offer a comprehensive, multi-year contract. He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. 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 salaries: How much does Kentwood - Indeed 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. 6: Wyoming City Council Meeting, 7 pm, Mar. Positive relationships and high expectations:Positive relationships provide the support needed to overcome difficult life circumstances. In an industry where leaders frequently change school districts, Zoerhoff spent his entire 33-year career in Kentwood Public Schools, serving as a teacher, coach, principal, assistant principal, assistant superintendent and finally as superintendent, according to the announcement. Places nearby. Date. School leaders noted that Polstons commitment to West Michigans public schools reflects his passion for education and the importance of community partnerships. Completed online applications must be submitted no later than 4:00 pm on April 6, 2021. 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. 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. Social distancing guidelines will be followed and there will be limited options for in-person seating. No hard copy, fax or emailed copies accepted. (Cory Morse | MLive.com)Cory Morse | MLive.com. 7: Kentwood City Commission Meeting, 7 pm. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. Interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave. Central to this effort is our commitment to help students develop a growth mindset that reflects high expectations. Positive relationships provide the strength to meet high expectations and tackle what feels like the impossible. The first-round interviews will take place April 28-29. 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. Lowell    Kent ISD    City of Wyoming meetings are live on Comcast Channel 26 or click here. According to the announcement, interviews will be held in person, with appropriate social distancing, at the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave., in Kentwood. Average Kentwood Public Schools hourly pay ranges from approximately $11.41 per hour for Childcare Provider to $17.80 per hour for Site Coordinator. For the 2023 school year, there are 16 public schools serving 9,085 students in Kentwood Public Schools School District. The "Confirm new password" field is the same password that was entered into the New password field It can be hard to filter out all the admissions jargon when trying to pick a college. Rewarding every student's achievement in a nurturing environment is important to us. Zoerhoff said when he announced his retirement that its been an honor and a privilege to serve Kentwood Public Schools for three decades. Business profile of Kentwood Public Schools, located at 5820 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. Staff - Kentwood Public Schools Kent ISD Kent City    He had previously been the districts assistant superintendent for human resources. 27: Wyoming Millage Informational Meeting, Wyoming Police Station, 7 pm. On behalf of our entire staff and the Board of Education, I would like to welcome you to our school community. Grand Rapids Community College    Our goal is for each student to master and apply the essential skills to be a successful, productive citizen. First Name: Kentwood Public Schools are the Heart of the Community. As an educator, I have always believed that positive relationships, active listening, empathy and a growth mindset lead to long term success. Superintendent at Kentwood Public Schools Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States 865 followers 500+ connections Join to view profile Kentwood Public Schools Michigan State University. Polston said he is eager to start building relationships within the Kentwood community. Kentwood Public Schools superintendent Zoerhoff to retire at end of Administration Kevin Polston, currently superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools. Your Email: Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff is retiring June 30 after eight years in the role. Instead of 11111, use your employee ID#. You can apply for school of choice to have your student attend with us in the fall. Lowell    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. Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Joe Cull - kentisd.org 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. 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. Norris [email protected] East Grand Rapids    The superintendent led Godfrey-Lee Public Schools through a tumultuous school year amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. summer break (F), Field Trips, Mentors, and other Experiences, Kentwood Public Schools Educational Foundation. More Local News to Love Start today for 50% off Expires 3/6/23. Grandville    We are a child-centered environment We expect our students to work hard and excel. Changes have been made to simplify password management and increase security. The board selected Polston after final interviews with him and the other finalist, Nkenge Bergan, director of student services for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Mar. Jenison High School principal selected as district's next - mlive School leaders describe the district as a global community school with over 90 languages spoken, representing multiple cultures, races, ethnicities, and religions. 3. The "Old password"field is the current password that has expired School News Network is community journalism at work, funded through the donations of our sponsors and member school districts and developed by Kent ISD. 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. 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. Public School Kentwood Public Schools | Kentwood MI Many students at Godfrey-Lee, and across Michigan, struggle with remote learning challenges due to unreliable internet connect. 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. The school board unanimous voted to offer Kevin Polston the job. Grit:Our students have the inner strength and intellectual capability to meet and rise above lifes challenges. "Veronica . Kentwood Public Schools to increase security at graduation - WZZM13.com Grand Rapids Community College    (Supplied/Kentwood Pubic Schools) By K.D. Our promise to our parents is to keep them excited about their students' academic accomplishments and awards. KENTWOOD, MI The Kentwood Board of Education will interview six candidates this month in the search for the districts next superintendent. Here are a few quick links to make sure you have what you need to support our students. Kentwood Two finalists will interview for superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools Wednesday, May 5. Godfrey-Lee's Kevin Polston selected to lead Kentwood Public Schools K . Kentwood    Kentwood superintendent to retire at end of school year We provide the best-trained staff to educate our children in a safe and orderly environment. This will continue during the Superintendent search process. He will interview at 6 p.m. Wednesday. 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. 21: Wyoming Planning Commission, 7 pm, Mar. Budget and Salary/Compensation Transparency Reporting, Tips for Parents and Staff When Dealing with Trauma. Action.