Board Minutes 2025
Board Minutes - October 13th, 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, October 13th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, October 13th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: None
Board Minutes - September 22nd, 2025
KENTWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOLS |
NOTICE OF WORK SESSION |
Board of Education |
| Date: Monday, September 22nd, 2025 |
| Time: 1:00 P.M. Board Meeting |
| Place: Stonewater Country Club 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE Suite A |
| Mimi Madden, President |
This meeting is a meeting of the Board of Education in public for the purpose of conducting the School District’s business and is not to be considered a public community meeting. There is a time for public participation during the meeting as indicated in agenda item III.
AGENDA
I. CALL TO ORDER—PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
II. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
III. SUSPEND REGULAR ORDER OF BUSINESS FOR BOARD RETREAT (Motion by ____, supported by ____, to approve the above.)
IV. Board Retreat Presentation
V. BOARD DISCUSSION
VI. ADJOURNMENT (Motion by ____, supported by ____, to approve the above.)
Board Minutes - September 8th, 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, September 8th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, September 8th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: None
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of August 11th, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). Nathan Loding - child at GW and CW - Complaints that are being heard - Communications and lack there of. Received an email the week before that bus routes were ready, but theirs were not. They did not receive their bus route the Sunday before school started. Backpack policy- was communicated at open house but we were not there. I only received info via my daughter's friend. Glenwood lunch times - kids and their parents sharing that there was not enough time to eat their lunch. Rushed schedule and kids are not getting the proper amount of time. Understanding that there are logistical issues. Talked to principal at GW and the teacher and they shared the sentiment that it was a rushed schedule. Would like someone to get back to him. | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT State and Federal Budget Update Community eligibility will still carry on for the next 4 years. If the state budget does not include school lunch program, that will not impact our practice. Enhancement Millage - November Election Asking for a renewal & restoration - this would impact all schools across the county - public and charter. We can do an informational campaign. We can inform voters. Explorer and ECC Main campus started today! We will welcome Hamilton ECC students tomorrow morning! Enrollment is still trending positively! We are trending to be around 100 students more than last year. Neighboring communities and the overall state is declining enrollment. We are addressing this growth by our ongoing construction projects. | SUPT'S REPORT |
| Motion by Ms. Taboda-Arzate, supported by Mr. Young, to approve parent representatives to serve on the Kent ISD Parent Advisors for Special Education (PASE). Motion carried. | PACE REPRESENTATIVES |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve Shanell Haigh as the Interim Special Education Supervisor. Motion carried. | NEW HIRE- HAIGH |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Ms. Taboda-Arzate, to purchase materials and training to pilot Project Lead the Way STEM curriculum resources in the amount of $45,000. Funding is from the General Fund. Motion carried. | PROJECT LEAD THE WAY |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Mr. Allen, to appoint Mimi Madden as the delegate and Sylvia Young as the alternate to vote on behalf of the Kentwood Public Schools Board of Education at the MASB Delegate Assembly on October 23rd, 2025. Motion carried. | DELEGATE ASSEMBLY |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the employment of the attached list Motion carried. | NEW HIRES |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Ms. James, to approve the disbursement summary for August 2025 Motion carried. | DISBURSEMENT SUMMARY |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Brown, to go into closed session for the purpose of 4 student reinstatements (in accordance with Policy 0160 and PA 267 of 1976, section 8.b.) (at 7:02PM) Motion carried. | CLOSED SESSION |
| Open Session at 7:13pm | |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve the reinstatement of Student A. Motion carried. | REINSTATEMENT STUDENT 1 |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Battey, to approve the reinstatement of Student B. Motion carried. | REINSTATEMENT STUDENT 2 |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Mr. Young, to approve the reinstatement of Student C. Motion carried. | REINSTATEMENT STUDENT 3 |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to approve the reinstatement of Student D. Motion carried. | REINSTATEMENT STUDENT 4 |
| BOARD DISCUSSION Kevin and Tanya are attending the KISD finance meeting at the end of the month. Delays at Hamilton and the ECC | BOARD DISCUSSION |
| AMENDED AGENDA Motion by Ms. James, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to appoint OAK Construction as the Construction Management Company for any remaining contracts awarded to Fritz Walfield Construction. Motion carried. | CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT COMPANY CHANGE |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to adjourn the meeting at 7:37 P.M. | ADJOURNMENT |
Board Minutes - August 11th, 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, August 11th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, August 11th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of July 14th, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Redistricting Steering Committee 3 years in the making - this committee helped with facilitating the plan - bus routes, logistics, staffing, etc. NSPRA golden achievement award & Award from frontline central Thank you for the dedication and hard work from this team! Appointment of Erin Anderson as Principal of East Kentwood Freshman Campus Appointment of Sheree Harmon as Interim Director of Special Education New staff welcome Wednesday morning - breakfast All staff welcome - Tuesday the 19th - breakfast and then program Celebration - grant tier 1 for instruction of literacy - over 800k for tier one literacy - later on in the school year, spring we will come to the board for recommendation to purchase materials. | SUPT'S REPORT |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Ms. Taboda-Arzate, to approve the hire Dr. Mulonge Kalumbula as the Assistant Principal of East Kentwood Freshman Campus. Motion carried. | NEW HIRE - KALUMBULA |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the hire of Sarah O’Connell as the principal of Glenwood Elementary. Motion carried. | NEW HIRE- O’CONNELL |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Mr. Young, to approve Dr. Brian Gamm as the Principal of Townline Elementary School. Motion carried. | NEW HIRE - GAMM |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the hire of Veola McFerrin-Nelson as the Special Education Supervisor. Motion carried. | NEW HIRE - MCFERRIN-NELSON |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the hire of Chad Nielson as Assistant Principal at East Kentwood High School. Motion carried. | NEW HIRE - NIELSON |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. Taboda-Arzate, to approve the 2025–2026 Alternate Agreement between Kentwood Public Schools (KPS) and Gerald Dawkins Academy (GDA), granting KPS full legal and financial responsibility for the operation of School Nutrition Programs at Gerald Dawkins Academy. Motion carried. | GDA AGREEMENT |
| Motion by Ms. Taboda-Arzate, supported by Mr. Young, to approve the renewal of a Cooperative Ice Hockey Program for the 2025-2027 seasons, with East Kentwood High School serving as the primary school, in partnership with Hopkins High School and West Michigan Aviation Academy. Motion carried. | COOPERATIVE ICE HOCKEY PROGRAM |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Brown, to award contracts totaling $202,135 for the installation of a temporary chiller system at the Kentwood Ice Arena for the 2025–2026 school year. This includes equipment rental, chemical removal, piping modifications, glycol fill, and electrical work. Funded by the General Fund. Motion carried. | CHILLER SYSTEM |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the East Kentwood High School Course Book. This is the second reading. Motion carried. | EKHS COURSE BOOK - 2ND READING |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to approve a contract with Goalbook Digital Toolkit. Funding is from the Special Education General Fund. Motion carried. | GOALBOOK DIGITAL TOOLKIT CONTRACT |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the purchase of 50 Lenovo laptops from CDWG at a cost not to exceed $64,800.00. Funding by the General Fund Motion carried. | LAPTOP PURCHASE |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the employment of the attached list Motion carried. | NEW HIRES |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the disbursement summary for July 2025 Motion carried. | DISBURSEMENT SUMMARY |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to adjourn the meeting at 7:23 P.M. | ADJOURNMENT |
Board Minutes - August 11th, 2025
Board Minutes - July 14th, 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, July 14th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, July 14th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: None
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of June 23rd, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Hamilton Elementary and ECC Ribbon Cutting August 20th at 4pm Same night as open house - check out the other buildings after! Send out dates for August - open house, opening day, etc. | SUPT'S REPORT |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Mr. Battey, to submit payment to Schoolinks post secondary planning software for grades 6-12 access in the amount of $48,745.60. This cost will be reimbursed in full by Kent Intermediate School District. Motion carried. | SCHOOLINKS |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the first reading of the East Kentwood High School Course Book. Motion carried. | EKHS COURSEBOOK - 1ST READING |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Ms. James, to approve the attached board policies. This is the second reading. Motion carried. | NEW HIRES |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Battey, to approve the disbursement summary for June 2025 Motion carried. | DISBURSEMENT SUMMARY |
| Board Discussion Items: MASB Conference taking place in Traverse City in October. Mimi, Tanya, Marlon, Kim and Sylvia plan on attending. | DISCUSSION ITEMS |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to adjourn the meeting at 6:43 P.M. | ADJOURNMENT |
Board Minutes - June 23rd, 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, June 23rd, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, June 23rd, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Absent: Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of June 9th, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Kim Addis - Student Services Supervisor. Reece Emeott - student recognized for State Championship in Track. Strategic Plan Update. | SUPT’S REPORT |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to authorize the executive director of finance and business operations and/or district central office executive team to employ the following professional services and/or contract agreements for the 2025-2026 school year. Motion carried. | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 25-26 |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to approve the attached board policies. This is the first reading. Motion carried. | POLICIES - FIRST READING |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Battey, to submit payment to College Board in the amount of $86,200 to cover the examination fee cost for 1,686 AP exams taken by EKHS students during the Spring 2025 testing window. Motion carried. | EXAM FEE PAYMENT |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Mr. Brown, to adjourn the meeting at 7:53 P.M. | ADJOURNMENT |
Board Minutes - June 9th, 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, June 9th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, June 9th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of May 12th, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Tyler Betterly - Special Education Supervisor William McSween - Director of Facilities and Operations Finance Committee Report Out- we are excited and proud for a balanced budget . There is some uncertainty with the state and federal budget. CNS - breakfast trailblazer award! Will be recognized in Las Vegas later in October. Communications Department - NSPRA recognition - we will send a link to the packet that was submitted. They will be recognized in DC this summer Reece Emmeott - state champ! We will recognize him at the next board meeting. | SUPTS REPORT |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Ms. James, to approve the millage levy for 2025-2026 as follows: General Fund Operating – Non-Homestead 18.00 mills, Debt Retirement 4.0 mills, Sinking Fund 1.5365 mills. Motion carried | MILLAGE LEVY |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Mr. Young, to approve a contract to Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. in the amount of $4,548,209 for the cafeteria addition and gymnasium renovation at Glenwood Elementary School. Funding for this project is provided by the 2021 Bond Issue. Motion carried. | GLENWOOD GYM RENOVATION |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve the First Amendment to the Management Agreement with Southside Ice Arena, LLC (SSIA) to continue operation and management of the Kentwood Ice Arena from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. Motion carried. | SOUTHSIDE ICE ARENA AGREEMENT |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Mr. Young, to approve the attached resolution authorizing Kentwood Public Schools’ continued membership in the West Michigan Health Insurance Pool (WMHIP) and updating the District’s appointed Trustees. Motion carried. | WHIMP RESOLUTION |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the purchase of a web filtering and device management system with 3 years of ongoing updates and support from Blocksi in the amount of $109,696.36. Funding for this project is provided by the General Fund. Motion carried. | WEB FILTERING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to authorize the Executive Director of Finance and Business Operations to represent the District, as necessary, in all future dealings, including the closing and transfer of the property located on Lot 2 of Wildflower Estates. Motion carried. | WILDFLOWER PROPERTY |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Young, to include the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as a graduation requirement in accordance with the stipulations outlined by the MDE Universal FAFSA Challenge grant. Motion carried. | FAFSA GRADUATION REQUIREMENT |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve the consent grouping items as stated above. Motion carried. | CONSENT GROUPING ITEMS |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Mr. Brown, to transfer the following school district funds: General Fund (01), Child Nutrition Services Funds (05), Debt Funds (03), Capital Projects Funds (04), Bond Fund (42) and Student Activities (07) and that the Board treasurer and/or executive director of finance and business operations be authorized signers for the following school district accounts: Disbursement Account and Payroll Account. Motion carried. | AUTHORIZED SIGNERS |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to approve tenure for the attached list of employees at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 school year. Motion carried. | TENURE |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Battey, to approve the resolution in support of the renewal of the Kent Intermediate School District Regional Enhancement Millage being placed on the November, 2025 ballot. Motion carried. | KISD MILLAGE |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Battey, to approve the disbursement summary for May 2025. Motion carried. | DISBURSEMENT SUMMARY |
| Board Discussion Items : The board received a book from the EKFC student authors. Unreasonable Hospitality - leadership team summer book read. The KPS Education Foundation requested to have a board of education member on the foundation board - Pete Battey and Sylvia James will represent. | DISCUSSION ITEMS |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Young, to adjourn the meeting at 7:14 P.M. | ADJOURNMENT |
Board Minutes - May 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, May 12th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, May 12th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent:
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Ms. James, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of April 21st, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Thank you community for the passing of the non homestead millage! Thank you for the trust and partnership! Regional Teacher of the Year Recognition Sarah Kresnick - region 3! She is most proud of her relationships she has with her students. Her passion for relationships is also a reflection of our district and the pride that we have in our community! Grow Your Own Program Recognition The investments we make in our community - our people! West Michigan teacher collaborative - 2 of our staff have been KPS staff members from the start! Other two came to us by way of HBCU from Alabama! We will continue the partnership with Talladega college for the 2026 school year. Thank you Kentwood for the support that I have received throughout my time in Kentwood. This program is an extra layer of support. My staff and principals have helped significantly and shown us the way and how to connect with students and build relationships. My mentor teacher has helped through this journey and I am thankful for all of the support. The beginning of my journey started with an interview for an office job and then transitioned to an ML para position. This opened my world into the opportunity of teaching and starting on this pathway. This is Our Home Now - Presentation | SUPT'S REPORT |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to award a contract to Total Fire Protection to monitor, test and service the District’s Fire Alarm systems in the amount of $35,191. Funding is from the FY 26 general fund. Motion carried. | TOTAL FIRE PROTECTION CONTRACT |
| Motion by Ms.Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Brown, to purchase office furniture for the Student Services area at East Kentwood High School in the amount of $52,493.23 from Custer Furniture. Funding is from the 2021 Bond. Motion carried. | EKHS OFFICE FURNITURE |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to purchase a truck for Facilities and Operations from Fox Ford in the amount of $51,920.00. Funding is from the FY 25 general fund. Motion carried. | F&O TRUCK |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James,to ratify the sale of the 2025 School Building and Site Bonds, Series III, in the principal amount of $26,500,000, as authorized by the Board’s delegating resolution adopted on April 21, 2025. The bond pricing was successfully executed on May 6, 2025 in collaboration with the district’s legal, financial, and underwriting partners. Motion carried. | RATIFICATION OF BONDS |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve the Kent ISD proposed budget resolution Motion carried. | KISD BUDGET RESOLUTION |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the disbursement summary for April 2025 Motion carried. | DISBURSEMENT SUMMARY |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to vote for David Drake and Laura Featherston for the Kent ISD Board of Education on the first ballot. Each term is a Six-Year Term (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2031). Motion carried. | KISD BOARD VOTE |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to approve the The Title IX policies as presented. This is the second reading. Motion carried. | BOARD POLICIES - SECOND READING |
| The board meeting adjourned at 7:20 P.M. | ADJOURNMENT |
Board Minutes - May 12th, 2025
Board Minutes - April 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, April 21st, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, April 21st, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: None
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of March 10th, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). Christina Sloss - Is an EKHS graduation and a KPS parent - shared their intentionality of sending their children to Kentwood Public Schools. Wanted the board and admin to know “You are doing a great job and we want to make sure you hear that!” | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Student Recognition - Fidele Byiringiro - Student Diver! Le Tran & Matthew Vriesman - student exhibit announcement and invitation Invitation to event being held at GR Museum - May 7th from 6-8:30pm. Student work, culture and history, our student diversity will be on full display! We will follow up with more info for both 7th and 9th of May regarding this event Vriesman and Tran have both received honors and recognition for their craft Addition of a Special Meeting on May 12th, 2025 - will take place at 6:15pm. Will have to designate a board member to cast the vote, with a 2nd delegate. GRA250 - committee to celebrate Americas birthday as well as GRs birthday - we are represented on one of those committees. They wanted 2 students to serve as MCs and those students will be KPS students! We will have a press release and point of pride regarding this. Last week the west michigan teacher collaborative celebrated 4 candidates that finished this program! Social media threat that school community received today - kudos to our team who worked closed with kent county sheriff's office and other departments to resolve this issue | SUPT’S REPORT |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to purchase new computers for school cafeteria in the amount of $63,659.08 through CDW-G & Sehi Computer Products, Inc. Funding is from the 2024/25 CNS excess funds balance. Funding is from the 2021 Bond Issue. Motion carried. | COMPUTER PURCHASE |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Brown, to enter into a three-year agreement with Corewell Health to provide athletic training services for Kentwood student-athletes. Funding is from the FY 26 General Fund. Motion carried. | COREWELL ATHLETIC TRAINING CONTRACT |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Mr. Young, to approve the resolution authorizing the issuance and sale of series III of the 2021 bond issue. This resolution authorizes the series III sale, not to exceed $30 million, to fund projects already approved in the 2021 bond. Motion carried. | SALE OF BONDS |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to purchase new carpet for Pinewood Middle School, to be bought through Bentley Mills and installed by Johnson Carpets for the total amount of $285,085.69. Funding is from the Building and Site Sinking Fund. Motion carried. | PINEWOOD CARPET |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Young, to purchase classroom furniture for Pinewood Middle School in the amount of $225,374.30 from Custer Furniture. Funding is from the 2021 Bond Issue. Motion carried. Battery abstains. | PINEWOOD CLASSROOM FURNITURE |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the disbursement summary for March 2025. Motion carried. | DISBURSEMENT SUMMARY |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Ms. James, to approve the ESTA board policy as presented. This is the second reading. Motion carried. | ESTA POLICIES |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Mr. Young, to approve the The Title IX policies as presented. This is the first reading. Motion carried. | BOARD POLICIES - FIRST READING |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Mr. Battey, to vote for Andrea Haidle, who is running unopposed for a three year term (2025-2028), to the KIASB Board of Directors. Motion carried. | KIASB BOARD OF DIRECTORS |
| Motion by Ms. Toboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Battey, to go into closed session for the purpose of strategy and negotiation sessions connected with the negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement if either party requests a closed hearing in accordance with Policy 0160, and PA 267 of 1976, section 0167.2 8(c). Roll Call Vote. Motion carried. | CLOSED SESSION |
| Open session at 8:18pm | |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Battey, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried. | ADJOURNMENT |
| The board meeting adjourned at 8:18 P.M. |
Board Minutes - April 21st. 2025
Board Minutes - March 10th, 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, March 10th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, March 10th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: None
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of February 10th, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). Jan Guilisee - 1085 51st street by VW. Regarding biblical versus around children being perfectly made. Ms. Guillisee shared that the bible states a warning about confusing children. She hopes that KPS sees each child. She left 2 children’s books titled “He is He” and “She is She” for the board to review. | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Dean of Hamilton Elementary - Sierra Cox-Parada as Dean of Hamilton! Presented on AI in the K12 system - notes will be shared out! KIASB dinner next week International Women’s day - last weekend. Maya Angelou - “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly…” Girls basketball team - regional basketball game tonight | SUPT’S REPORT |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Brown, to purchase Phase 2 of the furniture for Hamilton Elementary and Townline ECC from Custer Furniture for $228,946.59, Interphase Interiors for $75,836.10, VS America for $74,000, Lakeshore Learning for $55,974.85 and Smart Business Source in the amount of $ 55,256.00. Funding is from the 2021 Bond Issue. Motion carried. Battey abstains. | FURNITURE PURCHASE |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Mr. Young, to purchase four (4) Combi Ovens for a total of $174,717.99 through HPS to EKFC, EKHS, Valleywood, and Discovery as equipment upgrades. This project will be funded through the 2024/25 CNS excess funds balance. Motion carried. | OVEN PURCHASE |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to purchase the collection of library books for the library at Hamilton Elementary School opening in August of 2025 for $106,830.44 Funding is from the FY 25 General Fund. Motion carried. | HAMILTON LIBRARY BOOKS |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to approve the disbursement summary for February 2025. Motion carried. | DISBURSEMENT SUMMARY |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve the employment of the attached list. Motion carried. | NEW HIRES |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the ESTA board policy as presented. Motion carried. | BOARD POLICIES - FIRST READING |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to go into closed session for the purpose of 4 student reinstatements (in accordance with Policy 0160 and PA 267 of 1976, section 8.b.) (at 7:02PM) Motion carried. | CLOSED SESSION |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Young, to approve the reinstatement of Student A. Motion carried. | STUDENT A REINSTATEMENT |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve the reinstatement of Student B. Motion carried. | STUDENT B REINSTATEMENT |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the reinstatement of Student C. Motion carried. | STUDENT C REINSTATEMENT |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Ms. James, to deny the reinstatement of Student D. Motion carried. | STUDENT D REINSTATEMENT |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried. The board meeting adjourned at 7:45 P.M. | ADJOURNMENT |
Board Minutes - February 10th, 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, February 10th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, February 10th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: None
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of January 13th, 2025 and the board work session on January 27th, 2025. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). Jan Gillislee - 1085 51st street by VW. Regarding the truth of what is happening in the schools. Saw an article on MLIVE about the amount of stress in their life. It said that we need more counselors for children. Affirmed what president trump shared as an executive order regarding the genders of male and female. Believes that teachers need to tell students the truth about what is going on. Begging that our schools teach children this. Paul Gillisee- 1085 51st street - school safety. Asking about if schools are able to use lethal force regarding intruders. Kevin McKenna - president of kelloggsville little league. Includes kville, godwin, wyo, and KPS. In the past KPS has shared flyers but the last 2 years they have not been able to share flyers with students. It is my understanding that because we compete with KBL that is why they are not shared. | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Black History Month Recognition Student council decorated for board appreciation month! Including a crumble cookie Black HIstory Month student leaders came to share about the program coming up next week! Echoes of Greatness. THis program allows our student body to come together and celebrate our strengths. Highlights the history that our nation stands on - black history. Every building participates in some fashion February 19th - 5:30 pm reception, performance from 6:30-8pm No cost to attend!! Blaine Brummels awarded last week for his time serving here by MHSAA Today our redistricting letters were dropped off at the post office. Talking points were shared with you today via email We will be getting more info regarding millage vote in the weeks to come. | SUPT’S REPORT |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to purchase furniture from Smart Business Solutions in the amount of $100,241.00 and Custer Furniture in the amount of $230,263.70 for Hamilton Elementary. Funding is from the 2021 Bond Issue. Motion carried. Battey abstains. | HAMILTON FURNITURE |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve the petitions to strike personal property taxes for 2019 and prior years for the City of Grand Rapids in the amount of $722.09, Township of Gaines in the amount of $1,244.13, and the City of Kentwood in the amount of $22,205.93. Motion carried. | STRIKE PROPERTY TAXES |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Allen, to approve bids as recommended by Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. (OAK) in the amount of $30,787,220 to construct the new Multipurpose Facility. Funding is from the 2021 Bond Issue. Motion carried. Madden abstains. | MULTIPURPOSE FACILITY |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to approve bids as recommended by Fritz Wahlfield Construction (FWC) in the amount of $4,185,386 to renovate Crestwood Middle School. Funding is from the 2021 Bond. Motion carried. Madden abstains | CW RENOVATION |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to contract Hendrik Associates to replace the boiler at Endeavor Elementary in the amount of $373,180.00. Funding is from the Building and Site Sinking Fund. Motion carried. | EN BOILER |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Mr. Brown, to approve a contract with MOSS to provide and install a public address system at a cost of $453,611.41. Funding for this project will come from 2021 Bond and 2025 Building and Site Sinking Funds. Motion carried. | MOSS CONTRACT |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Mr. Battey, to approve the agreement with Digital Age Technologies (DAT) to provide new classroom technology equipment and installation services at a cost of $782,553.00. Funding for this project will come from 2021 Bond and 2025 Building and Site Sinking Funds. Motion carried. | DAT CONTRACT |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. James, to approve the contract with MOSS to provide audio-visual equipment and installation services at a cost not to exceed $285,404.23. Funding for this project will come from 2021 Bond and 2025 Building and Site Sinking Funds. Motion carried. | MOSS AV CONTRACT |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Mr. Young, to adopt the resolution for schools of choice for the to opt out of Section 105 – State Schools of Choice Program. Motion carried. | SOC - OPT OUT SECTION 105 |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. Powell-May, to adopt the resolution to opt out to Section 105c – State Schools of Choice Program Motion carried. | SOC - OPT OUT SECTION 105C |
Board Minutes - Work Session January 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION (DRAFT) MINUTES
Monday, January 27th, 2025 – 12:00 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
Stonewater Country Club7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE Suite A |
The work session meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, January 27th, 2025. The work session meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 12:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: None
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Ms. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Ms. James, to suspend regular order of business for board retreat. Motion carried. | SUSPEND ORDER OF BUSINESS |
| Board Retreat: Strategic Planning and Bond Update Presentations | BOARD RETREAT |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Battey, to adopt the resolution calling for an election on May 6th, 2025. Motion carried. | CALL FOR ELECTION |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the amended 2024-2025 budget for the General Fund. Motion carried. | BUDGET AMENDMENT |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried. The board meeting adjourned at 4:47P.M. |
Board Minutes - Work Session January 2025
Board Minutes - January 2025
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
Monday, January 13th, 2025 – 6:30 PM Kentwood Public Schools |
5820 Eastern Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49508 |
The regular meeting of the Kentwood Board of Education was held on Monday, January 13th, 2025. The regular meeting was called to order by Board President Mimi Madden at 6:30 P.M.
Present: Mimi Madden, President
Sylvia James, Vice President
Pete Battey, Treasurer
Allen Young, Secretary
Tanya Powell-May, Trustee
Kim Taboada-Arzate, Trustee
Marlon Brown, Trustee
Kevin Polston, Superintendent
Jamie Gordon, Executive Director
Tom Lagone, Executive Director
Sunil Joy, Executive Director
Bre Bartels, Executive Director
Carrie Tellerico, Executive Director
Veronica Lake, Executive Director
Sydney Hanlon, Recorder
Absent: None
| Ms. Madden led the board and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. | PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE |
| Newly elected board members, Mimi Madden, Allen Young, Tanya Powell-May and Marlon Brown, took the Oath of Office. | OATH OF OFFICE |
| Elections of Officers for 2025. | ELECTION OF OFFICERS |
| Motion by Ms. James, seconded by Mr. Battery, to elect Mimi Madden as President. | ELECTION OF PRESIDENT |
| Motion by Mr. Battey, seconded by Ms. Taboda-Arzate, to elect Sylvia James as Vice President. | ELECTION OF VICE PRESIDENT |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, seconded by Ms. James, to elect Allen Young as secretary. | ELECTION OF SECRETARY |
| Motion by Mr. Young, seconded by Mr. Brown, to elect Pete Battey as Treasurer. | ELECTION OF TREASURER |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. James, to approve the minutes from the board meeting of December 9th, 2024. Motion carried. | APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
| Mrs. Madden explained the procedure for the audience participation portion of the agenda. She asked all persons wishing to address the Board to sign the participation card prior to that item of business (Bylaw 9115 and PA 267, Sec. 3(5). | AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROCEDURE |
| The superintendent’s report included the following: Presentation by Sunil Joy regarding the redistricting process and the policies that are under action items. The Kentwood Education Foundation Red & Black Gala will take place on February 27th. Please let Sydney know if you would like to attend. The year the KPSEF is supporting the programs from the KIDS programming here in Kentwood. Next week Monday is MLK Day - Jan 20th - and the theme is Mission Possible. It is a district holiday and a day for students and staff to recognize MLK Jr. in the way that is right for them. Our condolences for Jimmy Carter - the department of education was founded under his leadership. Our next board retreat is Jan 27th - there will be an update on the strategic plan, as well as budget amendment (no finance committee), non homestead millage update, 1 action item on that agenda for the approval of non homestead mileage for the May ballot. We welcome Tom to the team officially! | SUPT’S REPORT |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Mr. Battery, to approve the maps and policies for the purposes of redistricting elementary buildings as presented. These changes will take effect beginning the 2025-26 school year. Motion carried. | REDISTRICTING POLICIES |
| Motion by Mr. Brown, supported by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, to approve the purchase of STEM pilot furniture for Bowen and Explorer Elementary. Motion carried. Battey abstains. | STEM FURNITURE PILOT |
| Motion by Mr. Young, supported by Ms. James, to adopt the attached board policies. This is the second reading. Motion carried. | 2ND READING POLICIES |
| Motion by Ms. Taboada-Arzate, supported by Mr. Battey, to approve the employment of the attached list. Motion carried | NEW HIRES |
| Motion by Ms. Powell-May, supported by Ms. James, to approve the disbursement summary for December 2024. Motion carried | DISBURSEMENT SUMMARY |
| Motion by Ms. James, supported by Mr. Young, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried. The board meeting adjourned at 7:24 P.M. | ADJOURNMENT |