(616)784-2511
Transparency Report
The Kenowa Hills Public Schools Board of Education is excited to announce the selection of its next Superintendent of Schools. The replacement process began in January 2026.
After multiple interviews, the Board of Education is pleased to enter into contract negotiations with Dr. Cherie Horner to lead the Kenowa Hills Public Schools beginning July 1, 2026.
Dr. Cherie Horner has served as Director of Human Resources at Kenowa Hills Public Schools since 2025. Previously, she served as Principal at Central Elementary at Kenowa Hills from 2014 to 2025.
The Board of Education continues to sincerely thank the community and district staff for their engagement and participation throughout the process. The process has been facilitated by the Michigan Leadership Institute.
Special Board Meeting - Presentation of Candidates to Board - 5:00 pm (KHMS LGI) Two Days of Interviews – Time 5:00 (KHMS LGI) Tuesday, April 28: Thursday, April 30: Round Two Interviews & Candidate Selection/Contract NegotiationFeb 10 - Feb 22 Input Gathered via Website from Public (survey link) Feb 13 Initial Superintendent of School Posting Posted Feb 17 and 19 Focus Group Meetings for Input to Develop Profile Feb 27 Superintendent of School Position Profile added and Posted April 3 Posting closes at 4:00 pm Thursday, April 16 Tuesday April 28 & Thursday, April 30
5:00 pm: Mr. Mitchell Balingit, Collins Elementary Principal, Forest Hills Public Schools
6:30 pm: Mr. J. Erich Harmsen, Superintendent, Crossroads Charter Academy
8:00 pm: Mr. James Feil, Interim Superintendent (fmr), Bristol (WI)
5:00 pm: Mr. Randy Barton, Assistant Superintendent, Mason Public Schools
6:30 pm: Dr. Cherie Horner, Director of Human Resources, Kenowa Hills Public SchoolsThursday, May 14 May/June BoE Meeting Formally Hire new Superintendent (post contract negotiation) July 1 New Superintendent Begins Duties
Kenowa Hills Public Schools is located on the northwest side of the Greater Grand Rapids region, serving portions of Alpine Township, the Village of Comstock Park, and the City of Walker in Kent County, along with portions of Tallmadge and Wright Townships in Ottawa County. The district sits within one of Michigan’s most vibrant growth corridors—anchored by Grand Rapids (population 200,117) and Kent County (population 673,002) —with convenient access to major highways, regional healthcare and manufacturing employers, and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. The area offers a strong mix of suburban neighborhoods and natural amenities, plus nearby higher-education partners such as Grand Valley State University and Calvin University, helping support an educated workforce and a community that values opportunity, family life, and quality schools.
Kenowa Hills is more than a school; we are a community, one that supports students and families alike. We value, support, and empower all learners to achieve their full potential. are here to create meaningful learning opportunities for every student, every day.
Kenowa Hills Public Schools serves just under 3,000 students in grades PreK–12 in the northwest Grand Rapids area. The district includes an Early Childhood Center, three award-winning elementary schools (Alpine, Central, and Zinser), Kenowa Hills Middle School, and Kenowa Hills High School—along with additional learning options such as Knights STEM Academy and alternative/innovative pathways like Pathways High School and Link Learning to support different student goals. Kenowa Hills emphasizes personalized learning (often described through a “Personal Mastery” approach) and offers strong extracurricular and athletics opportunities that build school pride and belonging.
Nothing is more precious than your children. Find out how we work to ensure students feel safe, valued, and that they belong.
Safety and Security Commitment to Anti-Bullying Creating Inclusive Environments Safety DrillsLife is busy. At Kenowa Hills, we partner with families to make life easier.
TRANSPORTATION BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CAREOur Personal Mastery educational experience has redefined education and has gained attention around the state and nation. Personal Mastery provides your child with personalized attention from teachers. Instead of teaching to a broad group of students without an understanding of their individual strengths and weaknesses, Personal Mastery allows teachers to interact with students individually or in small groups to help them better address their weaknesses. In this way, we strive to help your child reach their full potential.
PERSONAL MASTERY SPECIAL EDUCATION ENGLISH LEARNERS TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOMAt the home of the Knights, athletic programs are a vital part of building character, drive, commitment, and teamwork for our student athletes.
UP-TO-DATE SPORTS INFO ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT YOUTH SPORTS Athletic BoostersThe arts build pride and community at Kenowa Hills. From our Marching Knights to musical performances at our Performing Arts Center, we believe the student experience really is a work of art.
FINE ART PROGRAMS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
