Superintendent's Message

                                                                                                                                                                      
“Beating the Odds” seems like a fitting theme for the 2011-2012 school year.  Recently, Kentwood Public Schools was recognized by the Michigan Department of Education as doing remarkable things to help our students achieve.  Multiple schools within Kentwood received this designation!

“Beating the odds” will be one of the great challenges for our students throughout their lives and not just in the classroom.  Our commitment to strong relationships with students, parents, community and each other empowers that positive change and ensures that we have the ability to achieve excellence and equity in education.

When I think of “beating the odds,” I think of the state championships our teams earned in boys soccer, boys track and high school debate.  I think of the many Division I ratings our bands, orchestras, and vocal music groups earned.  When it comes to “beating the odds” I think of the Fine Arts Festival our district hosted in each of our three middle schools this past year.  Academically, when it comes to “beating the odds,” I think of the many creative practices our staff use to help students succeed.  Take for instance the blended learning model we used in geometry at the high school last year.  Dave Emeott, our high school boys track coach and one of the high school math teachers, successfully provided his students with an innovative personalized learning experience using technology.  Our Kentwood staff are role models in the classroom and in the extra-curricular activities they lead.  Every day they motivate students to take responsibility for their successes.

During the 2011-2012 school year, let’s highlight three aspects of Kentwood Public Schools:  
1.  Strong relationships between students, teachers, parents, board and community:  This is at the heart of what we do as educators and leaders.
2.  Innovative teaching, personalized learning:  I am proud to work in a district where teachers and staff members empower and encourage students to own their education through innovative methods and personalized learning experiences.   Teaching students to take initiative, achieve excellence in learning, and manage their time effectively is critical for a balanced life and the creation of a sustainable community.
3.  Globally competitive through a world class education:  Kentwood provides a cosmopolitan education that equips students to succeed in a global economy.  Some districts talk about it:  Our students come from around the world and their achievement scores demonstrate that they can compete with the best.  This isn’t rhetoric, it is reality; and, we have the data to prove it!

We will emphasize these themes throughout the year with our students, our parents, with our collaborative teams and within our community.  We have a great story to tell in Kentwood.  Let’s not be afraid to share it!
    
Finally, like our many successful teams of athletes, musicians, and vocalists, our Kentwood team of teachers, staff members, and board members chooses to compete on the world’s stage.  I am proud to be part of this team.  Thank you for your continued support.  It is great to compete and succeed together!


Dr. Scott Palczewski
Superintendent