Kenowa Hills Public Schools

Strong Schools, Strong Communities

Kenowa Hills Public Schools serves the northwest suburban corner of the greater Grand Rapids area and is home to nearly 3,000 students. The District offers a strong start for its youngest learners through an exceptional Early Childhood Center, which provides Pre-K programming as well as before- and after-school childcare for elementary students.

Kenowa Hills includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools – one based on a traditional model and one that offers blended-learning. Complementary offerings such as the Knights STEM Academy and Middle College provide students multiple pathways to success. Recognized as a state leader in competency-based education, Kenowa Hills is redefining what it means to prepare every learner for life beyond the classroom. Guided by our vision to provide meaningful learning experiences for every student, every day, we are committed to helping each Knight reach their full potential.

Thanks to the continued trust and generosity of our community, students learn in modern, secure, and technology-rich environments across all grade levels. The passage of three major bond proposals, $55 million in 2016, $67 million in 2020, and $37 million in 2024, has transformed our schools, enhancing safety, security, and learning spaces for generations to come.

District Mission

Kenowa Hills Public School values, supports, and empowers all learners to achieve their full potential.

Career Learning

We offer career and technical coursework through the Kent Career Tech Center and Knights STEM Academy. In the Knights STEM Academy, middle and high school-age learners are presented with industry problems that are solved through project-based learning that incorporates the curricular concepts taught in math and science.  Learners in our Pathways High School program participate in job shadowing and internships based on their career interests. Learners in this program have flexibility through a seat-time waiver to complete the coursework required for graduation while participating in an internship in their career of interest.

Academics and Beyond

At Kenowa Hills, strong academics form the foundation of learning from Pre-K through 12th grade, beginning with a focus on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. Beyond these core areas, students have access to a wide range of advanced learning opportunities—including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, dual-enrollment options, and a Middle College partnership with Grand Rapids Community College, where students can earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree after a fifth year of study.

Our commitment to developing the whole student extends far beyond the classroom. Kenowa Hills offers nearly 30 varsity sports, a wide selection of athletic programs, an award-winning marching band, and numerous fine arts and student-interest clubs that help learners discover and pursue their passions.

We are proud that all three of our elementary schools have earned national recognition as Capturing Kids’ Hearts Showcase Schools, and that Kenowa Hills High School has been named one of U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools in the Nation for two consecutive years—a reflection of our dedication to excellence at every level.

Support for Students

We are deeply committed to helping every student succeed. Our efforts include equitable, high-quality hiring practices that ensure all learners are supported by exceptional educators, as well as extended learning opportunities through after-school and summer programs. We also offer enrichment experiences for students who wish to explore their interests more deeply.

Early Childhood

Early childhood is a crucial time in children's lives, a time when they engage in the world around them and learn the basics they'll use in school and beyond. Our Great Start Readiness Preschool program helps children prepare for school success. In addition, our Early Childhood Center offers a tuition-based program for 3 and 4-year-olds, as well as an academically enriched childcare program for children as young as 6 weeks, and Early Childhood Special Education classrooms for qualifying students.

Fund Allocation

How Kenowa Hills is using the funds generated from the enhancement millage:

• Lower classroom sizes at the Kindergarten level
• School Resource Officer, a partnership with the KCSD
• Behavior & Mental Health Supports
• Expansion of STEM Instruction
• Instructional Coaching

Enhancement millage dollars

Kenowa Hills Public Schools has received the following enhancement millage dollars:

• 2017-18 amount received - $659,524.12
• 2018-19 amount received - $705,909.45
• 2019-20 amount received - $745,526.11
• 2020-21 amount received - $783,678.06
• 2021-22 amount received - $807,307.73
• 2022-23 amount expected -$838,909.13
• 2023-24 amount received - $893,512.32
• 2024-25 amount expected - $948,049.10