When I first came to Jenison in 1987, I never dreamed that my work in the junior high would one day lead to overseeing a district of over 400 staff members sprinkled across eight buildings. Now, having served as superintendent for the past nine years, I can say that it’s been a humbling journey that I’ve been privileged to share with committed, caring teachers and principals who truly desire the best for students.
Whether I peek my head in a classroom, enjoy an athletic event after school, or relax to our talented bands, choirs, orchestras, and thespians, I am reminded that this is not only a special place—it’s world-class. I am so proud of the quality of our programs and all we have achieved together, especially in this difficult climate of economic stagnation and budget cuts.
And while we have tests and standards to comply with, what I measure with great affection is our character. I have become more convinced than ever that the Jenison staff possesses the kind of integrity that influences young minds and fills fledgling hearts with compassion.
Margaret Mead was right when she famously said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
I believe we are doing that in Jenison Public Schools, and I’d love for you to witness it. Stop back here for news and highlights, or schedule a tour if you’re a prospective family new to the area.
Come change the world with us.
Love the quote! And sincerely agree with your remarks about staff integrity and compassion, in addition to our steadfast desire to prepare our students for their future!
This new year promises to be an exciting one for all of us as we learn, grow, plan, and celebrate together.
Thanks, Donna! I appreciate your comment and positive outlook; people like you make our district a great place to work and learn!
Your blog is informative and a good reflection on the Jenison Pubic School District. As a grandparent in the district, will you please see what you can do to have the athletic portion of the Jenison website updated, specifically sports schedules. Thank you.
Hi Rita, Thanks so much for your comment. We’re aware that we need to give our attention to the sports schedules and are working hard to resolve the issue. I’ll make sure to touch base with our web technicians! Thanks again for reading!
Why is there nothing on the site regarding sports ? Other schools have the rosters, game dates, scores, etc. Please tell me where to find this info.
Don Benninger
Forget about by posting at 12:54PM. I found the information I was looking for. I now am able to get the information. Guess I was on wrong link for Jenison.
Don Benninger
I was wondering if you ever thought of honoring ex-football coach David Woodcock, he is getting up there in age and I see all kinds of schools honoring coaches that have made great impact on a school…I just think he should be rememered and honored….He had over 300 wins, but more importantly he influenced many kids who played at Jenison for yrs and also taught for yrs…Coach Woodcock is no where to be seen at the high school…We honored Coach Hoag, Coach Cook with Field named after them….He deserves a night to be honored and at the very least he should be added to the jenison high school hall of fame…I don’t think you realize of many lives he touched…He isn’t getting any younger..I know you can’t just honor every coach that goes through Jenison, but this man is in the Michigan H.S. Football Coaches Hall of Fame and he is no where to be seen in the High School ….Other coaches have been honored….We have many families, former players, former students who would rush back to honor coach Woodcock if you gave them a chance…You have to power to make it happen…Please think about it…..Maybe honor him at halftime of a football game or basketball game…..I know he lives in Jension….it’s time to honor are own….thank you….just a suggestion….
I stumbled upon this website from a facebook link, as I don’t live in the area anymore, I like to see what’s going on. I graduated in 1993-and remember when you were the Vice Principal (I think). it’s nice to be a graduate of a school system that has so much to be proud of. How long have you been the Superintendent now? Congratulations! My brother, Jason Morse, a 1992 graduate is now a Superintendent as well-way out in Mendocino, CA. Keep the good things happening at Jenison schools!
Tom,
I am curious if you ever look into starting a jenison school that is geared for boys. Possibly a school that models the Finnish way of schooling? I love our school district and feel you have done an excellent job. I especially love the ACT program and the spanish immersion program which my 2 boys benefit from, however, my boys and I feel sad that American schools are geared for girls and we would love to see a school that caters more to the boy and his activity level and constant curiosity. Finland seems to have a very good model for this and given the fact that you seem to be someone who is forward thinking I thought how appropriate that JPS would lead the way in such a school in our area.
Re a school for boys: While it mght be a good idea (I don’t have enough info to form a decision), I am concerned with Jodi’s statement about satisfying a boy’s constant curiousity. I feel and have observed that girls are curious and anxious to experiment to learn new things just as boys are. It really depends more on the individual than the gender.
Absolutely Rita, I really did not mean to single boys out versus girls, I have 2 of each. I am just observed how much easier the school setting seems to be for my 2 girls versus my 2 boys, that certainly does not make it a rule that boys are more curious than girls, one must always look at the individual child.