The high school will soon be under the new leadership of a principal with a background in both academics and athletics, at the both the secondary and college levels.
Brett Zuver, principal of Belding High School for the past six years, begins his duties at KHHS in mid-June. He replaces Katie Pennington, who recently was hired as principal of Holland High School.
Zuver was chosen after a 12-member interview team narrowed the field of 23 applicants following Pennington’s acceptance of her new post. “It was clear throughout the interview process that Mr. Zuver strongly believes KHHS can become a premiere high school in Michigan,” Superintendent Gerald Hopkins said in a statement. “One of his primary beliefs surrounds the importance of forming relationships based on trust, value and appreciation for everyone in the school community. Mr. Zuver has a proven ability to foster these core values to create a school culture in which all are encouraged, challenged and supported to be their best.”
Zuver served as Belding High’s athletic director prior to becoming principal. Before working in public education, he worked at Emory University and Colorado College in a number of capacities including head basketball coach, instructor and athletic director.
Zuver earned a master of arts in secondary education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and a bachelor of arts in psychology from Lake Superior State University, where he also served as team captain on the men’s basketball team. He earned an elementary and secondary school administrator certificate from the state of Michigan.
Pennington has been principal of KHHS for five years. During her leadership, Hopkins said, the school was recognized by the College Board for making the fifth annual AP Honor Roll. She also was instrumental in the implementation and continued success of a middle college program with Davenport University, where 36 students have earned associate’s degrees.