Superintendent's Office Excellence and Equity in Education

A Legacy of Excellence. A Future of Possibility.

Dear Kentwood Families and Community Members,

Welcome to the 2026-27 school year!

Each August brings a renewed sense of excitement and possibility. Students return to familiar classrooms, others walk through our doors for the very first time, and together we begin another chapter in the story of Kentwood Public Schools.

For decades, our district's vision of Excellence and Equity in Education has guided the work of Kentwood Public Schools. By living that vision together, our educators, families, and community members have built a legacy of belonging, achievement, and opportunity for our students. While every school year brings new opportunities and new challenges, those same commitments continue to guide our work this year with these priorities:

Sense of Belonging

Every student deserves to feel known, valued, and connected.

This spring, East Kentwood High School valedictorian Ahmed Elkhwad reminded us what is possible when students are surrounded by caring educators, supportive families, and a community that believes in their potential. After arriving in the United States as his family sought safety and opportunity, Ahmed graduated with a GPA above 4.0 and is now headed to one of our nation's premier universities to study engineering. His story reflects what can happen when students know they belong.

High Achievement

We will continue strengthening teaching and learning so every student can reach their full potential.

This year, we'll implement a new research-based elementary literacy curriculum, strengthen professional collaboration, and thoughtfully utilize future ready skills to enhance learning while ensuring relationships remain at the center of education.

Unparalleled Opportunities

Every student deserves opportunities that prepare them for success in college, career, and life.

From nationally recognized academic programs and championship athletics to our award-winning fine arts groups and career prep programs such as the EKHS Residential Construction program, Kentwood students continue to thrive because of the unmatched opportunities created through strong partnerships and community support. That same commitment was reflected this spring when voters approved our Safety and Success Bond, investing in the future of our students and our district.

These priorities are made possible because of the people who make Kentwood special: our students, families, staff, and community partners. Together, we share a commitment to helping every child reach their fullest potential.

As we begin another school year, thank you for the trust you place in Kentwood Public Schools. We appreciate our partnership as we continue working with you to build a district where every student belongs, every student achieves, and every student has an opportunity to succeed.

Each generation of Kentwood educators, families, and community members has strengthened Kentwood Public Schools for those who followed. That is our legacy. This year, we have the privilege and the responsibility to strengthen that legacy for future generations.

Go Falcons!

Sincerely,