District leaders are responsible for hundreds of everyday tasks that it can be hard to see the comprehensive needs of the district and community from a 10,000-foot view. Yet, strategic planning can help position the district for long-term success, with each action working toward a common goal. Kenowa Hills Public Schools has set a great example of how intentional, transparent planning leads to strong community support and successful funding initiatives. By taking a proactive approach to district-wide improvements, Kenowa Hills has continuously secured resources to enhance its schools while keeping the community engaged in the process.
A Shared Vision for Student Success
The Kenowa Hills Public Schools is located Northwest of Grand Rapids, serving 3,100 students, and employing 350 staff members all working toward a shared mission: to provide meaningful learning experiences for every student, every day. The district’s commitment to valuing, supporting, and empowering all learners is at the heart of its strategic initiatives.
Located within a suburban and agricultural community, Kenowa Hills has built a strong track record of bond passage, which is a testament to the trust and support of its residents. Since 1996, the district has achieved a 66.67% passage rate for school bond initiatives, exceeding the state-wide average. Their success is not by chance but the result of a deliberate and multi-phase planning process.
A Strategic Approach to Funding and Growth
Kenowa Hills Public Schools has embraced a 10+ year strategy to improve facilities, technology, and learning environments while maintaining communications with community members. Since 2016, the district has passed $159,320,000 in bonds, structured in a three-phase approach that ensures steady, sustainable enhancements across all grade levels.
- 2016 Bond: The initial bond focused on remodeling and equipping elementary schools, addressing district-wide security concerns, and improving early learning environments. Prioritizing the district’s youngest learners first demonstrated an investment in the growth of the district and reinforced a commitment to early childhood education and safety.
- 2020 Bond: A follow-up bond proposal shifted focus to the middle and high schools, improving learning facilities, upgrading technology, and furthering renovations at the early childhood center to expand opportunities for younger students. Building off the success of the 2016 bond and showcasing the improvements with strong exterior branding created trust within the community.
- 2024 Bond: Dedicated to site improvements that enhance campus connectivity, outdoor learning spaces, athletic facilities, and community recreation, the final phase of the early childhood center project will also be completed. Creating accessible spaces that can improve the district’s athletics and outdoor spaces for the entire community, even those without students in the district, helps solidify the investment for everyone.
Student-Focused Communication
Kenowa Hills’ continued success relies, in part, on clear and consistent communication with the community. By keeping stakeholders informed through the district’s webpage, community workshops, and social media, they remain engaged and focused on seeing the student benefits. This level of transparency fosters trust and keeps the community invested in the district’s long-term vision.
Key messaging from the district has centered on:
- Enhancing Learning Environments: Creating spaces that foster collaboration among students, faculty, and staff while strengthening community pride across all grade levels.
- Allowing for Flexibility: Designing adaptable learning spaces, including pods, large-group areas, and individualized workstations, to accommodate various learning styles and future enrollment growth.
- Improving Infrastructure: Ensuring efficient, long-lasting building systems that support evolving educational needs.
The district also carefully crafts its messaging to resonate with all community members, including those without students in the schools. By positioning school investments as a benefit to the entire community, Kenowa Hills has reinforced the idea that strong schools attract families, increase property values, and enhance overall quality of life.
A Model for Other Districts
Kenowa Hills Public Schools demonstrates how a well-structured, student-centered strategic plan can lead to sustainable growth, successful bond initiatives, and an engaged, supportive community. Their approach proves that long-term vision, transparent communication, and responsible financial planning are the key ingredients to building a thriving school district for generations to come.
