(616)784-2511
Transparency Report
Notes From HealthBar:
This month’s nursing education topic is hydration. Most Americans are dehydrated, with nearly 75% only drinking the equivalent of 1 water bottle a day (2.5 cups). While dehydration depends on a lot of factors, 1 water bottle is NOT enough. Here are some benefits of drinking enough water and ways to help your student choose water: Benefits of Water
FinalForms: We are asking ALL parents of athletes to use FinalForms starting this upcoming 2023-2024 athletic season. Participation fees can be paid online with FinalForms, Efunds, cash or check sent to the athletic offices prior to the start of each sports season. Please register at FinalForms and follow the prompts to create your account, create your students, and sign all your forms prior to the start of the participating sport. Get Started with the Parent Playbook
ATHLETES INTERESTED IN PLAYING A SCHOOL SPRING SPORT:
KHMS 2024 Spring Sports Info Letter
7/8th grade girls softball, 7/8th grade boys lacrosse, 6th-8th grade co-ed tennis, 6th -8th grade co-ed track & field
**Please pick up a pink Permission to Practice Clearance Form from the Athletic Office PRIOR TO THE FIRST DAY OF TRYOUTS/PRACTICE! Permission to Practice Clearance Forms will be issued if you have met the following requirements:
IMPORTANT! For the 2023-24 school year, a sports physical will need to be on file for your student to participate in school sports!! The physical must have a date of April 15, 2023 or after.
6th and 7th Graders!! Spring Football Clinic, Sign-up Today!!
https://football.kenowahillsyouthsports.org/youth-spring-football-clinic.cfm
Attendance:
Our start time is 7:45am! We need your help getting students here on time! Any students arriving 10 minutes after class starts without an excused call/absence will be marked unexcused for the class (not a tardy). Please call the absence line 616-785-3225 or email, msattendance@khps.org. Please call ahead if your student/s need to leave early. We need to limit interruptions into the classroom. Please call in the morning and leave a message if needed, so a pass can be written. Students may not leave class without permission from the office.
Updated Attendance Policy for 2023-2024: All absences count toward attendance numbers, the only exception will be hospital stays. These are some changes we want to highlight:
Athletics Participation & Attendance: Athletes must be in school for the entire day in order to be eligible to compete in a scheduled practice or athletic event. In extreme situations, arrangements must be made with the Athletic Director and/or the Building Principal to acquire an excused absence. Scheduled appointments and funerals are an acceptable reason to be pre-excused. A medical/scheduled appointment note must be given to the athletic office if the appointment is during the scheduled school day.
Free and Reduced Program:
Please follow the link below to complete the Education Benefit Form online KHPS Education Benefit Form Although meals will be available at no cost this year, we encourage all families to complete the Education Benefit Form. Families that complete the form and qualify for free or reduced school meals may receive additional benefits including: Waived participation costs for athletics (excluding club sports), reduced fees for high school assessments like AP exams, waived student device (Chromebook) insurance and home internet costs through local providers*Additionally, the number of qualified families increases district funding for student support programs. It is important for all families to apply, whether it seems qualification is likely or not.
Will you have a Kindergartener next year?
Mobile Dentist - is coming March 21st and March 22nd.
Forms were sent home, but here is where you can go to enroll your child online: https://www.myschooldentist.com/KHKEMI_schsrm.
PTO Meetings
Wednesday, May 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, June 5th @ 6:00 pm
Field Day
Monday, June 3rd
Spring Conferences
Thursday, March 7 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Tuesday, March 12 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Friday, March 15 12:30 - 2:30 pm
PTO Meetings
Wednesday, November 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, December 6th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, January 10th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, February 7th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, March 6th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, April 10th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, May 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, June 5th @ 6:00 pm
Field Day
Monday, June 3rd
Volunteers
If you would like to volunteer or visit the school during school hours (this includes reading with students, helping teachers, attending a classroom party, watching a class play production and so forth), you must complete a background check for the new school year.
Background checks must be completed in person at any KH front office. Please bring a state-issued photo ID.
Mindful Minute with Pine Rest SAP
Back-to-school anxiety is tough... for the parent and the child! Are you nervous about your Kindergartner's first day or your college student being away from home for the first time? Pine Rest has a wealth of resources to assist you and your student during this transitional time. See below for age-relevant articles to battle those back-to-school blues.
Tips to Help Your Child Transition to Kindergarten
Tips to Ease Your Child's Back-to-School Anxiety
What to do When Your Child Avoids School: Tips for Parents
5 Tips for Sending your Child off to College
Letter from the Nurse
Hello, my name is Michelle and I am the Registered Nurse at Central Elementary. For those of you that do not know me, this will be my second year at Central and I am so excited to be back for another great school year! With the first day of school rapidly approaching, I wanted to send out a reminder that all medications kept at the school, prescription and non- prescription, will need a medication consent form filled out and signed by both a guardian and a physician. Attached you will find the Medication Consent form. This needs to be dated no earlier than July 1 and must be completed before administration of any medications at school.
If your child has allergies, asthma, diabetes, or seizures, an Emergency Action Plan is also required. You can receive these forms from your child's physician. If you would like a blank generic form, please contact me. Please note, these also require a physician signature. If your child has other chronic conditions that could require care at school or that I should be aware of, please let me know.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your time,
Sincerely,
Michelle Sikkema, BSN, RN
Central Elementary - Kenowa Hills Public Schools
616.453.6351 ext. 6342
msikkema@khps.org
Transportation Reminder
If your student will get picked up or dropped off at a location that is not your home you’ll need to email an alternate transportation form to transportation@khps.org. Alternate bus changes take about 2 weeks to update.
The transportation department can also be reached at (616) 453-4757 or see more info at khps.org/transportation.
Bus Tracking - Ride 360
Kenowa Hills is proud to announce the launch of My Ride 360 and in-vehicle GPS geolocation to provide parents and students with real-time access to the bus stop locations, routes, pick-up times, and more. Register your account, add your students, and access tracking and bus information here.
Breakfast and Lunch
All students in Michigan will once again have the option of free breakfast and lunch at school! An Education Benefit application will take the place of the free & reduced meal benefit application. We will send it out via email as soon as it is shared with us. We ask that every family take a few moments to complete this application when it arrives. A snack bar will still be offered at Central. Money can be added to an account for purchasing these items using our new system, Titan. More information, and menus can be found here.
Strive for Less than Five
A reminder that attendance is important! At KHPS we strive for less than five absences for every student. Make every day count by being on time, setting appointments for before or after school when possible, and planning vacations when school is out. Read the flyer from the Kent ISD for details on this initiative (Eng and Sp).
Hand2Hand at Central
We would like to offer your student the opportunity to participate in a program at Central Elementary called “Hand2Hand”. This program helps provide a student with food for the weekends and is intended for families who currently may be experiencing a financial burden. The first backpack is set to be delivered on September 22nd. Learn more about this program, or how you can participate here.
Ride the Rapid Bus Changes
The Rapid has extended one of its bus routes to better serve businesses and families in our area. See the attached flyer for details.
Drop-off & Pick-up Reminders
We show Respect, We all stay Safe, Central SHINES! Earliest drop-off time is 8:30 am and school begins at 8:35 am. School ends at 3:37 pm. Please see the attached flyer for our Procedures Map and more information.
Zinser Spotlight
This is the third year of the Child Behavior Specialist position and it is more exciting every year to be able to focus on the social and emotional needs of our students! This year I have been able to conduct small social skills groups based on our behavior data. Myself, along with our behavior team have been able to provide mental health lessons to the classrooms. I continue to meet with individual students on my caseload to teach them skills to be successful inside and outside of the classroom. These students also have the opportunity to earn Mrs. Carley Coins and cash them in at the end of the week! In the office, I provide a sign in sheet for students to sign if they need extra assistance or need to talk just for that day. I am very knowledgeable of the different resources in our community and enjoy helping others! If there are any caregivers or parents who need extra assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am very excited for next year and incorporating more interventions for our students. I am truly passionate about this work and being an advocate for the mental health needs at Zinser Elementary.
Note from Nurse Courtney - Need to Stay Home Sick Chart
Nurse Courtney offers free Strep, Flu, & Covid tests for students. Please give her a call if you have any questions or would like to schedule a test for your child 616-453-2461 ext 4340.
Parking Lot Notes: MAP
➔ Please consider utilizing our bus transportation option to avoid the busy parent pick-up lot
➔ Always look to pull up in line and when possible to help with the flow of traffic.
◆ Tell your child(ren) to look for the correct car and be ready. If your child is late to the class sign and you’ve pulled past it, you can circle around the lot and keep your car moving.
➔ Thank you for those turning right only! We know it’s an inconvenience, but we believe it will help speed up the line and be safer in the long run ( We have a couple accidents a year with vehicles turning left)
➔ Drop off starts at 8:30; children may exit vehicles a few minutes early to get traffic flowing, and must wait by their grade sign until the 8:30 bell.
➔ We do have two lanes in the parking lot. Please only use the right lane for drop off and pick up, the inside lane is a pass by lane only! Please pass by with caution.
DROP OFF EXPECTATIONS:
DISMISSAL EXPECTATIONS:
The school day ends at 3:37
Attendance/Drop Off - Pick Up
Our start time is 8:35 am! We need your help getting students here on time! Any students arriving after 8:40 will be marked tardy. Any students arriving after 9:05 am without an excused call/absence will be marked unexcused for the morning session. Please call our attendance line at 616-453-2461 opt.1 or email ziattendance@khps.org to communicate your student’s absence, early leave time, or late arrival. STRIVE FOR FIVE!!!
SAVE the DATE - MAY 8, 2024
The Senior Athletic Banquet for all senior athletes and their parents. An invitation and details will be forthcoming!
SAVE the DATE - APRIL 29, 2024
National Honor Society Induction Ceremony (by invitation only)
Kenowa Hills High School Performing Arts Center
Prom is April 26, 2024
Prom is quickly approaching. If any of the following has or is occurring, you will not be able to attend the Prom on April 26, 2024:
If you have any questions, please see Mr. O'Dell.
PLEASE NOTE CHANGES:
REMINDER: You MUST have your ID to enter the dance. That is your ticket. If you are bringing an outside guest, they must also have an ID.
GOOD NEWS: Freshmen Field Trip
Our freshmen had the opportunity to visit the Nelson Mandela exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum Thursday, 04/11/24. It was a great day!!
Parking/Drop Off
Just a reminder that student drop off and pick up is on the north side of the parking lot. Parking lots are labeled. Please do not drop off or pick up in the bus loop.
Athletics - High Sports are back!!
You can view the KH Fall Athletic Schedules at kenowahillsathletics.com. Next week’s schedule is attached here. Ticket prices are listed below for all home events. Cash and check only. We are not able to accept Venmo or Credit/Debit.
KH students get into home athletic events for free if wearing Kenowa Hills swag, black and gold, and/or theme night! PreK-8th grade students must be accompanied by a paid adult who accepts responsibility for supervising their child(ren) during the contest.
Attendance
If your student is going to be absent, late, or needs to leave early, please call the attendance line at 616-784-2400, Prompt 1 or you can email us at hsattendance@khps.org.
Please call ahead if your student/s need to leave early. We need to limit interruptions into the classroom. Please call in the morning and leave a message if needed, so a pass can be written. Students may not leave class without permission from the office.
The Rapid Bus Route Change
The Rapid is extended one of its bus routes to better serve businesses and families in our area! Children who are 42" and taller can ride the Rapid without an adult. See attached flyer.
Food Service Changes
We are excited to share that KHPS will be participating in the MI School Meals Program and will be offering breakfast and lunch to all students at NO COST starting this fall. Although meals are free, we encourage all families to complete the Education Benefit Form found here. You may be entitled to additional benefits.
2023/24 Handbook Changes
We would like to remind everyone of the changes that have been made to our student handbook for the 2023-2024 school year. This information was sent out a few weeks ago. We encourage you to read over the changes specifically within our handbook. Building Handbooks
Note from Nurse Courtney - Need to Stay Home Sick Chart
Nurse Courtney offers free Strep, Flu, & Covid tests for students. Please give her a call if you have any questions or would like to schedule a test for your child 616-453-2461 ext 4340.
Parking Lot Notes: MAP
➔ Please consider utilizing our bus transportation option to avoid the busy parent pick-up lot
➔ Always look to pull up in line and when possible to help with the flow of traffic.
◆ Tell your child(ren) to look for the correct car and be ready. If your child is late to the class sign and you’ve pulled past it, you can circle around the lot and keep your car moving.
➔ Thank you for those turning right only! We know it’s an inconvenience, but we believe it will help speed up the line and be safer in the long run ( We have a couple accidents a year with vehicles turning left)
➔ Drop off starts at 8:30; children may exit vehicles a few minutes early to get traffic flowing, and must wait by their grade sign until the 8:30 bell.
➔ We do have two lanes in the parking lot. Please only use the right lane for drop off and pick up, the inside lane is a pass by lane only! Please pass by with caution.
DROP OFF EXPECTATIONS:
DISMISSAL EXPECTATIONS:
The school day ends at 3:37
Attendance/Drop Off - Pick Up
Our start time is 8:35 am! We need your help getting students here on time! Any students arriving after 8:40 will be marked tardy. Any students arriving after 9:05 am without an excused call/absence will be marked unexcused for the morning session. Please call our attendance line at 616-453-2461 opt.1 or email ziattendance@khps.org to communicate your student’s absence, early leave time, or late arrival. STRIVE FOR FIVE!!!
Bus Tracking - Ride 360
Kenowa Hills is proud to announce the launch of My Ride 360 and in-vehicle GPS geolocation to provide parents and students with real-time access to the bus stop locations, routes, pick-up times, and more. Register your account, add your students, and access tracking and bus information here.
Mindful Minute with Pine Rest SAP
Back-to-school anxiety is tough... for the parent and the child! Are you nervous about your Kindergartner's first day or your college student being away from home for the first time? Pine Rest has a wealth of resources to assist you and your student during this transitional time. See below for age-relevant articles to battle those back-to-school blues.
Tips to Help Your Child Transition to Kindergarten
Tips to Ease Your Child's Back-to-School Anxiety
What to do When Your Child Avoids School: Tips for Parents
5 Tips for Sending your Child off to College
Athletic Booster Scholarship
The 2024 Kenowa Hills Athletic Booster Scholarship form is available in the Athletic office. If you've participated in a sport at Kenowa Hills, please consider applying for this scholarship. The deadline to apply is April 15th, 2024 at 3 pm.
Testing Week Schedule & Information:
Thursday 04/11 - Junior Testing Schedule
Testing Period: 7:45-11:10
1st Period: (A Lunch 11:10-11:35) Class 11:15-12:10
Class 11:40-12:35 (B Lunch 12:10-12:35)
2nd Period: 12:40-1:35
3rd Period: 1:40-2:42
Friday 04/12 - Junior Testing Schedule
Testing Period: 7:45-11:10
4th Period: (A Lunch 11:10-11:35) Class 11:15-12:10
Class 11:40-12:35 (B Lunch 12:10-12:35)
5th Period: 12:40-1:35
6th Period: 1:40-2:42
Parking/Drop Off
Just a reminder that student drop off and pick up is on the north side of the parking lot. Parking lots are labeled. Please do not drop off or pick up in the bus loop.
Athletics - High Sports are back!!
You can view the KH Fall Athletic Schedules at kenowahillsathletics.com. Next week’s schedule is attached here. Ticket prices are listed below for all home events. Cash and check only. We are not able to accept Venmo or Credit/Debit.
KH students get into home athletic events for free if wearing Kenowa Hills swag, black and gold, and/or theme night! PreK-8th grade students must be accompanied by a paid adult who accepts responsibility for supervising their child(ren) during the contest.
Attendance
If your student is going to be absent, late, or needs to leave early, please call the attendance line at 616-784-2400, Prompt 1 or you can email us at hsattendance@khps.org.
Please call ahead if your student/s need to leave early. We need to limit interruptions into the classroom. Please call in the morning and leave a message if needed, so a pass can be written. Students may not leave class without permission from the office.
The Rapid Bus Route Change
The Rapid is extended one of its bus routes to better serve businesses and families in our area! Children who are 42" and taller can ride the Rapid without an adult. See attached flyer.
Food Service Changes
We are excited to share that KHPS will be participating in the MI School Meals Program and will be offering breakfast and lunch to all students at NO COST starting this fall. Although meals are free, we encourage all families to complete the Education Benefit Form found here. You may be entitled to additional benefits.
2023/24 Handbook Changes
We would like to remind everyone of the changes that have been made to our student handbook for the 2023-2024 school year. This information was sent out a few weeks ago. We encourage you to read over the changes specifically within our handbook. Building Handbooks
Zinser Roller Skating Party - March 26, 6:15 pm-8:15 pm
Join us on March 26 at Terry Hall Roller Rink, 3330 Fairlanes Ave. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Parents that do not skate, do not have to pay, but a parent or guardian must stay with their child - this is not a drop-off event.
Book Fair is Coming!
We are in need of volunteers to help run the Book Fair at Zinser. Please consider taking a shift to help students shop and purchase their items. If you have any questions please email Family Council at ZinserElemFC@gmail.com Sign Up Genius
Note from Nurse Courtney - Need to Stay Home Sick Chart
Nurse Courtney offers free Strep, Flu, & Covid tests for students. Please give her a call if you have any questions or would like to schedule a test for your child 616-453-2461 ext 4340.
Parking Lot Notes: MAP
➔ Please consider utilizing our bus transportation option to avoid the busy parent pick-up lot
➔ Always look to pull up in line and when possible to help with the flow of traffic.
◆ Tell your child(ren) to look for the correct car and be ready. If your child is late to the class sign and you’ve pulled past it, you can circle around the lot and keep your car moving.
➔ Thank you for those turning right only! We know it’s an inconvenience, but we believe it will help speed up the line and be safer in the long run ( We have a couple accidents a year with vehicles turning left)
➔ Drop off starts at 8:30; children may exit vehicles a few minutes early to get traffic flowing, and must wait by their grade sign until the 8:30 bell.
➔ We do have two lanes in the parking lot. Please only use the right lane for drop off and pick up, the inside lane is a pass by lane only! Please pass by with caution.
DROP OFF EXPECTATIONS:
DISMISSAL EXPECTATIONS:
The school day ends at 3:37
Attendance/Drop Off - Pick Up
Our start time is 8:35 am! We need your help getting students here on time! Any students arriving after 8:40 will be marked tardy. Any students arriving after 9:05 am without an excused call/absence will be marked unexcused for the morning session. Please call our attendance line at 616-453-2461 opt.1 or email ziattendance@khps.org to communicate your student’s absence, early leave time, or late arrival. STRIVE FOR FIVE!!!
Bus Tracking - Ride 360
Kenowa Hills is proud to announce the launch of My Ride 360 and in-vehicle GPS geolocation to provide parents and students with real-time access to the bus stop locations, routes, pick-up times, and more. Register your account, add your students, and access tracking and bus information here.
Mindful Minute with Pine Rest SAP
Back-to-school anxiety is tough... for the parent and the child! Are you nervous about your Kindergartner's first day or your college student being away from home for the first time? Pine Rest has a wealth of resources to assist you and your student during this transitional time. See below for age-relevant articles to battle those back-to-school blues.
Tips to Help Your Child Transition to Kindergarten
Tips to Ease Your Child's Back-to-School Anxiety
What to do When Your Child Avoids School: Tips for Parents
5 Tips for Sending your Child off to College
Will you have a Kindergartener next year?
Mobile Dentist - is coming March 21st and March 22nd.
Forms were sent home, but here is where you can go to enroll your child online: https://www.myschooldentist.com/KHKEMI_schsrm.
Read-a-thon - is around the corner and we need help! Below is a sign up to be a part of the committee. This would entail planning the incentives and rewards and ensuring we have volunteers throughout March to hand out prizes etc.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409094DADAD2FA2F85-47415354-readathon
KHHS Frozen Jr. Show Info
The KHHS Fine Arts Department will present Disney’s Frozen Jr. on March 21-23 at 7:00 pm with a special Family Matinee on March 23 at 2:00 pm. More details found at khps.org/musical.
Spring Conferences
Tuesday, March 12 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Friday, March 15 12:30 - 2:30 pm
PTO Meetings
Wednesday, April 10th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, May 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, June 5th @ 6:00 pm
Field Day
Monday, June 3rd
Spring Conferences
Thursday, March 7 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Tuesday, March 12 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Friday, March 15 12:30 - 2:30 pm
PTO Meetings
Wednesday, November 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, December 6th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, January 10th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, February 7th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, March 6th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, April 10th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, May 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, June 5th @ 6:00 pm
Field Day
Monday, June 3rd
Volunteers
If you would like to volunteer or visit the school during school hours (this includes reading with students, helping teachers, attending a classroom party, watching a class play production and so forth), you must complete a background check for the new school year.
Background checks must be completed in person at any KH front office. Please bring a state-issued photo ID.
Mindful Minute with Pine Rest SAP
Back-to-school anxiety is tough... for the parent and the child! Are you nervous about your Kindergartner's first day or your college student being away from home for the first time? Pine Rest has a wealth of resources to assist you and your student during this transitional time. See below for age-relevant articles to battle those back-to-school blues.
Tips to Help Your Child Transition to Kindergarten
Tips to Ease Your Child's Back-to-School Anxiety
What to do When Your Child Avoids School: Tips for Parents
5 Tips for Sending your Child off to College
Letter from the Nurse
Hello, my name is Michelle and I am the Registered Nurse at Central Elementary. For those of you that do not know me, this will be my second year at Central and I am so excited to be back for another great school year! With the first day of school rapidly approaching, I wanted to send out a reminder that all medications kept at the school, prescription and non- prescription, will need a medication consent form filled out and signed by both a guardian and a physician. Attached you will find the Medication Consent form. This needs to be dated no earlier than July 1 and must be completed before administration of any medications at school.
If your child has allergies, asthma, diabetes, or seizures, an Emergency Action Plan is also required. You can receive these forms from your child's physician. If you would like a blank generic form, please contact me. Please note, these also require a physician signature. If your child has other chronic conditions that could require care at school or that I should be aware of, please let me know.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your time,
Sincerely,
Michelle Sikkema, BSN, RN
Central Elementary - Kenowa Hills Public Schools
616.453.6351 ext. 6342
msikkema@khps.org
Transportation Reminder
If your student will get picked up or dropped off at a location that is not your home you’ll need to email an alternate transportation form to transportation@khps.org. Alternate bus changes take about 2 weeks to update.
The transportation department can also be reached at (616) 453-4757 or see more info at khps.org/transportation.
Bus Tracking - Ride 360
Kenowa Hills is proud to announce the launch of My Ride 360 and in-vehicle GPS geolocation to provide parents and students with real-time access to the bus stop locations, routes, pick-up times, and more. Register your account, add your students, and access tracking and bus information here.
Breakfast and Lunch
All students in Michigan will once again have the option of free breakfast and lunch at school! An Education Benefit application will take the place of the free & reduced meal benefit application. We will send it out via email as soon as it is shared with us. We ask that every family take a few moments to complete this application when it arrives. A snack bar will still be offered at Central. Money can be added to an account for purchasing these items using our new system, Titan. More information, and menus can be found here.
Strive for Less than Five
A reminder that attendance is important! At KHPS we strive for less than five absences for every student. Make every day count by being on time, setting appointments for before or after school when possible, and planning vacations when school is out. Read the flyer from the Kent ISD for details on this initiative (Eng and Sp).
Hand2Hand at Central
We would like to offer your student the opportunity to participate in a program at Central Elementary called “Hand2Hand”. This program helps provide a student with food for the weekends and is intended for families who currently may be experiencing a financial burden. The first backpack is set to be delivered on September 22nd. Learn more about this program, or how you can participate here.
Ride the Rapid Bus Changes
The Rapid has extended one of its bus routes to better serve businesses and families in our area. See the attached flyer for details.
Drop-off & Pick-up Reminders
We show Respect, We all stay Safe, Central SHINES! Earliest drop-off time is 8:30 am and school begins at 8:35 am. School ends at 3:37 pm. Please see the attached flyer for our Procedures Map and more information.
Athletic Booster Scholarship
The 2024 Kenowa Hills Athletic Booster Scholarship form is available in the Athletic office. If you've participated in a sport at Kenowa Hills, please consider applying for this scholarship. The deadline to apply is April 15th, 2024 at 3 pm.
Spring Athletics
ATHLETES INTERESTED IN PLAYING A SPRING SPORT: Please pick up a pink Permission to Practice Clearance Form from the Athletic Office PRIOR TO THE FIRST DAY OF TRYOUTS/PRACTICE (MARCH 11, 2024)
Yearbook Ads
Show your love and pride by purchasing a personalized recognition ad in the yearbook. Act now and create a special memory that will be cherished forever and make their yearbook even more special! Just visit www.jostensadservice.com to create and purchase your ad! But hurry, time and space is limited. Create your ad by: March 29. Please contact Ms. Hughes (ahughes@khps.org) if you have any questions!
Spring Musical - Frozen Jr. Show Info
The KHHS Fine Arts Department will present Disney’s Frozen Jr. on March 21-23 at 7:00 pm with a special Family Matinee on March 23 at 2:00 pm. Tickets will be $12 for all performances with one exception. There will be a special Family Matinee performance on March 23 at 2:00 pm. Children, young and old, are welcome at all 4 performances. However, tickets for children ages 3 to 12 may be purchased for the special price of $8.00 for the Family Matinee performance only. Children under 3 who will be sitting on an adult’s lap are free and do not require tickets (limit one per adult) for the Family Matinee only. More details and tickets available at khps.org/musical.
Parking/Drop Off
Just a reminder that student drop off and pick up is on the north side of the parking lot. Parking lots are labeled. Please do not drop off or pick up in the bus loop.
Athletics - High Sports are back!!
You can view the KH Fall Athletic Schedules at kenowahillsathletics.com. Next week’s schedule is attached here. Ticket prices are listed below for all home events. Cash and check only. We are not able to accept Venmo or Credit/Debit.
KH students get into home athletic events for free if wearing Kenowa Hills swag, black and gold, and/or theme night! PreK-8th grade students must be accompanied by a paid adult who accepts responsibility for supervising their child(ren) during the contest.
Attendance
If your student is going to be absent, late, or needs to leave early, please call the attendance line at 616-784-2400, Prompt 1 or you can email us at hsattendance@khps.org.
Please call ahead if your student/s need to leave early. We need to limit interruptions into the classroom. Please call in the morning and leave a message if needed, so a pass can be written. Students may not leave class without permission from the office.
The Rapid Bus Route Change
The Rapid is extended one of its bus routes to better serve businesses and families in our area! Children who are 42" and taller can ride the Rapid without an adult. See attached flyer.
Food Service Changes
We are excited to share that KHPS will be participating in the MI School Meals Program and will be offering breakfast and lunch to all students at NO COST starting this fall. Although meals are free, we encourage all families to complete the Education Benefit Form found here. You may be entitled to additional benefits.
2023/24 Handbook Changes
We would like to remind everyone of the changes that have been made to our student handbook for the 2023-2024 school year. This information was sent out a few weeks ago. We encourage you to read over the changes specifically within our handbook. Building Handbooks
March is National Reading Month!
Did you know March is National Reading Month? The Student Council has a few fun events to celebrate reading.
First, we will be holding a reading contest. You will be able to fill out a form for each chapter book you read in March and enter into a raffle. The box and forms are located in the front lobby. Two people will win $25 gift cards to Barnes and Noble.
Also, Mrs. Haines will read mystery book passages over the intercom every Monday and Wednesday starting March 4th during Connect class. Your class will have a chance to guess the title and the author to win candy.
Lastly there will be a Sketch Your Favorite Book Cover contest! There is paper in the front lobby for your artistic creation. When you are finished, please turn your book cover into Mrs. Haines. We will hang up the book covers in the cafeteria as they are turned in. Book covers will be judged and three students will win prizes. Make sure to check out a good book and spend some time reading!
8th Grade Parent Meeting (for Incoming Freshman)
Monday, March 11, at 6:00 pm in the KHHS PAC. The information will cover graduation requirements and scheduling, Freshman Orientation, Freshman Academy, Athletics, and Clubs. For questions, please contact the Kenowa Hills High School Student Services Office at (616) 784-3604.
Additional Info:
Kenowa Hills Middle School Prayer Group
Days and times may be adjusted in the future but for this first meeting please have a ride planned to pick you up at 3:45 pm. Please sign up if you plan to attend at GroupSIgnUpSheet
Disney's Frozen Jr.
The KHHS Fine Arts Department will present Disney’s Frozen Jr. on March 21-23 at 7:00 pm with a special Family Matinee on March 23 at 2:00 pm. Tickets will be $12 for all performances with one exception. There will be a special Family Matinee performance on March 23 at 2:00 pm. Children, young and old, are welcome at all 4 performances. However, tickets for children ages 3 to 12 may be purchased for the special price of $8.00 for the Family Matinee performance only. Children under 3 who will be sitting on an adult’s lap are free and do not require tickets (limit one per adult) for the Family Matinee only. Purchase tickets at khps.org/musical.
FinalForms: We are asking ALL parents of athletes to use FinalForms starting this upcoming 2023-2024 athletic season. Participation fees can be paid online with FinalForms, Efunds, cash or check sent to the athletic offices prior to the start of each sports season. Please register at FinalForms and follow the prompts to create your account, create your students, and sign all your forms prior to the start of the participating sport. Get Started with the Parent Playbook
ATHLETES INTERESTED IN PLAYING A SCHOOL SPRING SPORT:
KHMS 2024 Spring Sports Info Letter
7/8th grade girls softball, 7/8th grade boys lacrosse, 6th-8th grade co-ed tennis, 6th -8th grade co-ed track & field
**Please pick up a pink Permission to Practice Clearance Form from the Athletic Office PRIOR TO THE FIRST DAY OF TRYOUTS/PRACTICE! Permission to Practice Clearance Forms will be issued if you have met the following requirements:
IMPORTANT! For the 2023-24 school year, a sports physical will need to be on file for your student to participate in school sports!! The physical must have a date of April 15, 2023 or after.
6th and 7th Graders!! Spring Football Clinic, Sign-up Today!!
https://football.kenowahillsyouthsports.org/youth-spring-football-clinic.cfm
Attendance:
Our start time is 7:45am! We need your help getting students here on time! Any students arriving 10 minutes after class starts without an excused call/absence will be marked unexcused for the class (not a tardy). Please call the absence line 616-785-3225 or email, msattendance@khps.org. Please call ahead if your student/s need to leave early. We need to limit interruptions into the classroom. Please call in the morning and leave a message if needed, so a pass can be written. Students may not leave class without permission from the office.
Updated Attendance Policy for 2023-2024: All absences count toward attendance numbers, the only exception will be hospital stays. These are some changes we want to highlight:
Athletics Participation & Attendance: Athletes must be in school for the entire day in order to be eligible to compete in a scheduled practice or athletic event. In extreme situations, arrangements must be made with the Athletic Director and/or the Building Principal to acquire an excused absence. Scheduled appointments and funerals are an acceptable reason to be pre-excused. A medical/scheduled appointment note must be given to the athletic office if the appointment is during the scheduled school day.
Free and Reduced Program:
Please follow the link below to complete the Education Benefit Form online KHPS Education Benefit Form Although meals will be available at no cost this year, we encourage all families to complete the Education Benefit Form. Families that complete the form and qualify for free or reduced school meals may receive additional benefits including: Waived participation costs for athletics (excluding club sports), reduced fees for high school assessments like AP exams, waived student device (Chromebook) insurance and home internet costs through local providers*Additionally, the number of qualified families increases district funding for student support programs. It is important for all families to apply, whether it seems qualification is likely or not.
March is National Reading Month!
Did you know March is National Reading Month? The Student Council has a few fun events to celebrate reading.
First, we will be holding a reading contest. You will be able to fill out a form for each chapter
book you read in March and enter into a raffle. The box and forms are located in the front lobby. Two people will win $25 gift cards to Barnes and Noble.
Also, Mrs. Haines will read mystery book passages over the intercom every Monday and
Wednesday starting March 4th during Connect class. Your class will have a chance to guess the title and the author to win candy.
Lastly there will be a Sketch Your Favorite Book Cover contest! There is paper in the front lobby for your artistic creation. When you are finished, please turn your book cover into Mrs. Haines. We will hang up the book covers in the cafeteria as they are turned in. Book covers will be judged and three students will win prizes. Make sure to check out a good book and spend some time reading!
8th Grade Parent Meeting (for Incoming Freshman)
Monday, March 11, at 6:00 pm in the KHHS PAC. The information will cover graduation requirements and scheduling, Freshman Orientation, Freshman Academy, Athletics, and Clubs. For questions, please contact the Kenowa Hills High School Student Services Office at (616) 784-3604.
Additional Info:
Kenowa Hills Middle School Prayer Group
Days and times may be adjusted in the future but for this first meeting please have a ride planned to pick you up at 3:45 pm. Please sign up if you plan to attend at GroupSIgnUpSheet
NHS Blood Drive 2024
It's that time of year again!🩸Get signed up to give at the largest blood drive in MI, held at Walker Ice and Fitness & hosted by the Kenowa Hills High School National Honor Society. Visit the links below to register:
Tues 3/5: https://donate.michigan.versit...
Weds 3/6: https://donate.michigan.versit...
DANCE!!
The Student Council is holding an after-school dance on Friday, March 8 from 2:45 - 4:30 P.M. Admission will be $2 and tickets will be sold at lunch the first week of March. Join King Kandy, Queen Frostine, and Lord Licorice in the world of Candyland. The dance will also include much more than dancing! There will be concessions sold in the cafeteria, a Candyland game room, giant Jenga, limbo, bingo, a photo backdrop, and other fun games and activities. In order to be eligible to go to the dance, students must be passing at least 4 of their 6 classes with a 60% or better at the time they buy a ticket during the first week of March. In addition, they may not have any behavior referrals from February 1 - March 8. That includes lunch detentions, after-school Knight crews, in-school suspension or out-of-school suspension. We hope you will join us in Candyland!
Disney's Frozen Jr.
The KHHS Fine Arts Department will present Disney’s Frozen Jr. on March 21-23 at 7:00 pm with a special Family Matinee on March 23 at 2:00 pm. Tickets will be $12 for all performances with one exception. There will be a special Family Matinee performance on March 23 at 2:00 pm. Children, young and old, are welcome at all 4 performances. However, tickets for children ages 3 to 12 may be purchased for the special price of $8.00 for the Family Matinee performance only. Children under 3 who will be sitting on an adult’s lap are free and do not require tickets (limit one per adult) for the Family Matinee only. Purchase tickets at khps.org/musical.
FinalForms: We are asking ALL parents of athletes to use FinalForms starting this upcoming 2023-2024 athletic season. Participation fees can be paid online with FinalForms, Efunds, cash or check sent to the athletic offices prior to the start of each sports season. Please register at FinalForms and follow the prompts to create your account, create your students, and sign all your forms prior to the start of the participating sport. Get Started with the Parent Playbook
ATHLETES INTERESTED IN PLAYING A SCHOOL SPRING SPORT:
KHMS 2024 Spring Sports Info Letter
7/8th grade girls softball, 7/8th grade boys lacrosse, 6th-8th grade co-ed tennis, 6th -8th grade co-ed track & field
**Please pick up a pink Permission to Practice Clearance Form from the Athletic Office PRIOR TO THE FIRST DAY OF TRYOUTS/PRACTICE! Permission to Practice Clearance Forms will be issued if you have met the following requirements:
FinalForms: We are asking ALL parents of athletes to use FinalForms starting this upcoming 2023-2024 athletic season. Participation fees can be paid online with FinalForms, Efunds, cash or check sent to the athletic offices prior to the start of each sports season. Please register at FinalForms and follow the prompts to create your account, create your students, and sign all your forms prior to the start of the participating sport. Get Started with the Parent Playbook IMPORTANT!!!! For the 2023-24 school year, a sports physical will need to be on file for your student to participate in school sports!! The physical must have a date of April 15, 2023 or after.
IMPORTANT! For the 2023-24 school year, a sports physical will need to be on file for your student to participate in school sports!! The physical must have a date of April 15, 2023 or after.
6th and 7th Graders!! Spring Football Clinic, Sign-up Today!!
https://football.kenowahillsyouthsports.org/youth-spring-football-clinic.cfm
Attendance:
Our start time is 7:45am! We need your help getting students here on time! Any students arriving 10 minutes after class starts without an excused call/absence will be marked unexcused for the class (not a tardy). Please call the absence line 616-785-3225 or email, msattendance@khps.org. Please call ahead if your student/s need to leave early. We need to limit interruptions into the classroom. Please call in the morning and leave a message if needed, so a pass can be written. Students may not leave class without permission from the office.
Updated Attendance Policy for 2023-2024: All absences count toward attendance numbers, the only exception will be hospital stays. These are some changes we want to highlight:
Athletics Participation & Attendance: Athletes must be in school for the entire day in order to be eligible to compete in a scheduled practice or athletic event. In extreme situations, arrangements must be made with the Athletic Director and/or the Building Principal to acquire an excused absence. Scheduled appointments and funerals are an acceptable reason to be pre-excused. A medical/scheduled appointment note must be given to the athletic office if the appointment is during the scheduled school day.
Free and Reduced Program:
Please follow the link below to complete the Education Benefit Form online KHPS Education Benefit Form Although meals will be available at no cost this year, we encourage all families to complete the Education Benefit Form. Families that complete the form and qualify for free or reduced school meals may receive additional benefits including: Waived participation costs for athletics (excluding club sports), reduced fees for high school assessments like AP exams, waived student device (Chromebook) insurance and home internet costs through local providers*Additionally, the number of qualified families increases district funding for student support programs. It is important for all families to apply, whether it seems qualification is likely or not.
Yearbook Ordering available
Will you have a Kindergartener next year?
Mobile Dentist - is coming March 21st and March 22nd.
Forms were sent home, but here is where you can go to enroll your child online: https://www.myschooldentist.com/KHKEMI_schsrm.
Read-a-thon - is around the corner and we need help! Below is a sign up to be a part of the committee. This would entail planning the incentives and rewards and ensuring we have volunteers throughout March to hand out prizes etc.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409094DADAD2FA2F85-47415354-readathon
KHHS Frozen Jr. Show Info
The KHHS Fine Arts Department will present Disney’s Frozen Jr. on March 21-23 at 7:00 pm with a special Family Matinee on March 23 at 2:00 pm. More details found at khps.org/musical.
Spring Conferences
Thursday, March 7 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Tuesday, March 12 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Friday, March 15 12:30 - 2:30 pm
PTO Meetings
Wednesday, March 6th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, April 10th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, May 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, June 5th @ 6:00 pm
Field Day
Monday, June 3rd
Spring Conferences
Thursday, March 7 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Tuesday, March 12 4:00 - 7:30 pm
Friday, March 15 12:30 - 2:30 pm
PTO Meetings
Wednesday, November 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, December 6th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, January 10th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, February 7th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, March 6th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, April 10th @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, May 1st @ 6:00 pm
Wednesday, June 5th @ 6:00 pm
Field Day
Monday, June 3rd
Volunteers
If you would like to volunteer or visit the school during school hours (this includes reading with students, helping teachers, attending a classroom party, watching a class play production and so forth), you must complete a background check for the new school year.
Background checks must be completed in person at any KH front office. Please bring a state-issued photo ID.
Mindful Minute with Pine Rest SAP
Back-to-school anxiety is tough... for the parent and the child! Are you nervous about your Kindergartner's first day or your college student being away from home for the first time? Pine Rest has a wealth of resources to assist you and your student during this transitional time. See below for age-relevant articles to battle those back-to-school blues.
Tips to Help Your Child Transition to Kindergarten
Tips to Ease Your Child's Back-to-School Anxiety
What to do When Your Child Avoids School: Tips for Parents
5 Tips for Sending your Child off to College
Letter from the Nurse
Hello, my name is Michelle and I am the Registered Nurse at Central Elementary. For those of you that do not know me, this will be my second year at Central and I am so excited to be back for another great school year! With the first day of school rapidly approaching, I wanted to send out a reminder that all medications kept at the school, prescription and non- prescription, will need a medication consent form filled out and signed by both a guardian and a physician. Attached you will find the Medication Consent form. This needs to be dated no earlier than July 1 and must be completed before administration of any medications at school.
If your child has allergies, asthma, diabetes, or seizures, an Emergency Action Plan is also required. You can receive these forms from your child's physician. If you would like a blank generic form, please contact me. Please note, these also require a physician signature. If your child has other chronic conditions that could require care at school or that I should be aware of, please let me know.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your time,
Sincerely,
Michelle Sikkema, BSN, RN
Central Elementary - Kenowa Hills Public Schools
616.453.6351 ext. 6342
msikkema@khps.org
Transportation Reminder
If your student will get picked up or dropped off at a location that is not your home you’ll need to email an alternate transportation form to transportation@khps.org. Alternate bus changes take about 2 weeks to update.
The transportation department can also be reached at (616) 453-4757 or see more info at khps.org/transportation.
Bus Tracking - Ride 360
Kenowa Hills is proud to announce the launch of My Ride 360 and in-vehicle GPS geolocation to provide parents and students with real-time access to the bus stop locations, routes, pick-up times, and more. Register your account, add your students, and access tracking and bus information here.
Breakfast and Lunch
All students in Michigan will once again have the option of free breakfast and lunch at school! An Education Benefit application will take the place of the free & reduced meal benefit application. We will send it out via email as soon as it is shared with us. We ask that every family take a few moments to complete this application when it arrives. A snack bar will still be offered at Central. Money can be added to an account for purchasing these items using our new system, Titan. More information, and menus can be found here.
Strive for Less than Five
A reminder that attendance is important! At KHPS we strive for less than five absences for every student. Make every day count by being on time, setting appointments for before or after school when possible, and planning vacations when school is out. Read the flyer from the Kent ISD for details on this initiative (Eng and Sp).
Hand2Hand at Central
We would like to offer your student the opportunity to participate in a program at Central Elementary called “Hand2Hand”. This program helps provide a student with food for the weekends and is intended for families who currently may be experiencing a financial burden. The first backpack is set to be delivered on September 22nd. Learn more about this program, or how you can participate here.
Ride the Rapid Bus Changes
The Rapid has extended one of its bus routes to better serve businesses and families in our area. See the attached flyer for details.
Drop-off & Pick-up Reminders
We show Respect, We all stay Safe, Central SHINES! Earliest drop-off time is 8:30 am and school begins at 8:35 am. School ends at 3:37 pm. Please see the attached flyer for our Procedures Map and more information.
5th Grade Parent Meeting (for Incoming 6th Grade Students)
Join us in the new Large Group Instruction room at the Middle School for an informative meeting that will cover the scheduling process, 6th-grade course offerings, 6th-grade orientation, and extracurricular offerings.
This is for families of students at Alpine, Zinser, and Central Elementary schools. Please choose ONE meeting time to attend: Monday (2/26) or Wednesday (2/28) this week at 6 pm, at the Middle School. If you cannot attend or have questions, please contact the Kenowa Hills Middle School Office at (616) 785-3225.
Note from the Principal
Dear Parents,
I continue to be amazed by just how quickly the year seems to pass. Teachers have been celebrating the student growth they have seen and it has been amazing to see students excited about the progress they’ve made and overcoming various challenges. Mid-winter break is now behind us and conferences are right around the corner. We even had a couple of small tastes of spring with the warmer temperatures that have occurred this past week! I love seeing our students excited to be outside and it is healthy for them to enjoy the sunshine after our gray and cloudy winter days. Listed below are some tips for navigating the long winter season with your family and helping to maintain mental health:
Attending conferences is the most important way you can be involved in your child’s education and a great way to build a positive relationship with your child’s teacher. Please watch for further communication from our school to sign up for a conference time. If you are struggling to schedule a conference, please call our school office and we are happy to assist you. If your schedule does not allow you to connect at times we have available, I know our teachers will work hard to find a time that works. All conferences will be offered to parents IN PERSON, however, if you prefer a VIRTUAL conference, please communicate that directly to your child’s teacher and the teacher will work to coordinate that. We recognize that continuous communication between home and school may be occurring and we value the time parents spend to work as an educational team with us. Conferences can be optional for parents if both the parent and teacher agree there is not a need to meet for various reasons. However, relationships are important to us and if you would like to still connect or have concerns that you would like addressed at a conference, please know we would love to meet with our families.
Reading month is right around the corner! Your child will be receiving a reading month calendar shortly. If you do not receive a reading month calendar, please be sure to reach out to your child’s teacher. There are a variety of daily events that will hopefully excite students to read this month and foster a love for reading long term. Please continue to stay informed by reading our building newsletter and all communication you receive from your child’s teacher as well. If you have questions or a specific need, please be sure to connect with your child’s teacher or our office for support.
Your partner in education,
Jason Snyder
OLDER NEWS
SCHOOL DAY
Our school day for the 2022-2023 school year begins at 8:37 and ends at 3:35.
STUDENT DROP-OFF DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER
If it is raining outside or we have extremely cold weather, student drop offs will be permitted into the building starting at 8:30. All student drop offs will be asked to enter through the main office doors and proceed to their individual classroom.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
If you would like to volunteer or attend a classroom event, please complete a background check. Background checks can be completed by bringing in a driver's license or state ID to any Kenowa Hills Secretary and completing a background form.
Alpine Elementary Nurse
Nurse Ashley, 616-784-0884 ext. 8293 or abeene@khps.org
Social Media
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
