About Us

Humble Beginnings

In 1859, after Francis Kellogg received a land grant, Kelloggsville’s first one-room schoolhouse was built. In 1882, a similar school replaced the original structure after a fire destroyed the building. Later in 1907, due to an increase in population, a second room was added to the school.

During WWI, there was a decline in attendance due to a picric acid plant being built in the area. Explosives for the war were to be developed in the plant. Many students quit school to help build the plant. Half of the school was closed and it again became a one-room schoolhouse. The second room was used for events in the community such as social gatherings, spell downs, sewing bees, and community singing. The “home folk” also welcomed outsiders to join in the festivities.  

Francis William Kellogg - Founder of Kelloggsville

Francis William Kellogg was born on May 30, 1810, in Worthington, Massachusetts. In 1855, Mr. Kellogg engaged in the lumber business in Paris Township, Michigan. On September 12, 1858, Mr. Kellogg was issued a land grant to build a one-room schoolhouse. This school was designated to be Fractional District Number Eight. Mr. Kellogg was later a member of the Michigan State House of Representatives and continued in politics for many years.

 He also served as a Colonel with the Union Army in the Civil War. He passed away on January 13, 1879. He is buried in the Fulton Street Cemetery in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

James Keeney - First School Teacher

The first known School teacher at Kelloggsville was Mr. James Keeney. Born in Canada in 1840, Mr Keeney and his family moved to Grand Rapids, MI when he was 12 years old. He obtained his elementary education at Knapp Avenue School. At the age of 16, he quit school and took an examination from the school board, the only requirement for teaching in those days, and started on his vocation. 

He was paid twenty dollars a month and had free room and board. The responsibility of his room and board was divided equally among the parents of the students. 

Mr. Keeney was a teacher at Kelloggsville when the Civil War broke out. In 1862, he enlisted in the 126th Division of the engineers and mechanics. He was honorably discharged after being injured. Years later, on November 30, 1920, he passed away. He will forever be remembered as a hero for his country, a booster for education, and the first teacher at Kelloggsville.

“Along a dusty plank road through the forest of pines, comes a stagecoach drawn by a pair of sprightly, well-groomed horses. As the coach passes on, the passengers hear the shouts and cries of small children playing near a small, one-room schoolhouse. Now and then, an Indian wigwam is seen. The shrieking sounds of the saws as the logs are cut into pieces attracts the attention of the passengers in the coach. The sound comes from a small sawmill nearby. The stagecoach stops at the Kelloggsville Hotel, and the driver, wearing a tall, fur plug hat, springs from his high seat to assist the passengers into the hotel. Here they will remain overnight, for this hotel is the only stopping place between Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, their destination.”

Beacon Lights of Kelloggsville - 1937

From Sticks to Bricks

In 1923, the two-room schoolhouse was sold at auction and Kelloggsville built its first brick building. It consisted of two classrooms. The area continued to grow, and in 1925, Kelloggsville changed from a primary school to a graded school and four more rooms were added. By 1927, the structure at 4779 South Division was completed after adding eight more classrooms. In 1936, the first High School was built at 23 Jean Street. Kelloggsville had its first twelfth-grade graduation in 1938. 

Football, basketball, and baseball were some of the first sports at Kelloggsville. Kelloggsville celebrated many successful seasons through the late 1940s, winning several championships in the Barkenall League with Mr. Russell Formsma coaching almost every sport for many years. 

John Tynan -First Superintendent

Superintendent 1925-1945

John Tynan wore many hats at Kelloggsville. He was a teacher, principal, coach and the first superintendent. In the 1920’s, it was not uncommon for administrators to perform multiple roles at the same time. It was said that Mr. Tynan often wandered the halls of the school, peeking in on the students and teachers. He was said to have had a kind heart, a sense of humor and a great passion for the students and the future of the school. He had many dreams for Kelloggsville and its growth. His dream became a reality when in 1936, a new High School was built at 23 Jean Street. The Class of 1939 dedicated their yearbook to him with this passage:

 "Mr. Tynan has served his position faithfully and to the best of his ability for the past fourteen years. He is well liked bye the students for his fairness and for his willingness to aid them in solving their problems. It is with the greatest pleasure and the deepest sincerity that we dedicate this, the first yearbook in the history of Kelloggsville High School, to him."

In his tenure, Mr. Tynan hired over seventy-five teachers. He retired in 1945.

World War II

World War II was a very impactful time for the Kelloggsville School district and community. Many students put their books away, left their families and friends behind, to answer our nation’s call to serve. During this time, sports, school trips, and many other activities were canceled. By 1944, over 200 Kelloggsville students had gone off to war. Many of these classmates were to never return home. To them, we can not give enough thanks for the bravery and sacrifice they and their families made. Kelloggsville will always remember them.

Russell Formsma 

Superintendent 1949-1968

Russell Formsma served the Kelloggsville School district for 37 years, starting his career in 1931. He was a teacher, coach, principal and Superintendent and was also instrumental in the organization and development of the OK Conference. In 1949, the football field was named Russell Formsma Field in his honor.

In 1940, the Century yearbook was dedicated to him with these words,

“We the seniors, dedicate this 1940 volume of the Century to our principal and coach, Mr. Formsma, who has proven himself a true pioneer in the building up of our student activities and athletics association. We respect his counsel, appreciate his friendly cooperation with us in our activities and admire his success in promoting the welfare of Kelloggsville. His constant desire to assist has uplifted and inspired many a troubled student. His patience, sportsmanship, and quiet manner will long be remembered by us. Truly it can be said of him that he knows his task and does it well. With all sincerity, we say thank you for making our school days pleasant.”

Growth Leads to New Buildings

In the late 1940s, Kelloggsville experienced tremendous growth. In 1950, Two new elementary buildings were constructed to relieve the crowded conditions that had existed for several years. With the support of the community and a successful bond proposal, East and West Elementary was built. By 1954, two additional buildings were added; Northwest and Southwest elementary. The growth continued and an addition at the High School was needed by the mid-’50s. A new gymnasium, several science classrooms, a home economics room, and a shop room were added. A five-room addition took place at West Elementary. A $700,000 bond proposal was passed making all of this possible. Southeast Elementary followed in 1964, completing the addition of five new elementary buildings and additions to the High School. 

A Lesson in Diversity

By 1940, Kelloggsville was already home to a diverse student population, with many families from different cultures moving into the district and attending Kelloggsville. This blend of students from various backgrounds enriched the district in ways that no law ever could. They were not just classmates but neighbors and friends.

In 1969, Title IX was passed, requiring schools to provide equal opportunities for both sexes in participation opportunities, athletic scholarships, and treatment of male and female athletic teams. Kelloggsville, already active with its Girls Athletic Association, Pom Pom Squads, and Cheerleaders, quickly responded to the new law. By the mid-1970s, the district had formed competitive girls'  teams, filled with athletes eager to compete against neighboring schools.

A Path Chosen

After serving in World War II and earning a Purple Heart, Frank Hunnes returned to attend the University of Michigan. A 1941 Kelloggsville graduate (the 5th graduating class of Kelloggsville), he rejoined his alma mater as a teacher and became Principal in 1962. Admired for his leadership and positive influence, he was promoted to Superintendent in 1968. During his tenure, he established a free preschool, health clinic, and senior center. Mr. Hunnes retired in 1978, leaving a lasting legacy of service and dedication.

"At Kelloggsville, we are endeavoring to continue to improve our record from year to year." ` Frank Hunnes

Community Focused

William Zoller began his long and dedicated career at Kelloggsville in 1966, where he spent his entire educational journey. He started as a 5th-grade teacher at West Kelloggsville, and in 1973, he became the district's first Community Education Director for South Kent Community Education. In 1983, he advanced to the role of Assistant Superintendent, and in 1992, he was appointed Superintendent. During his tenure, William oversaw the construction of Kelloggsville Middle School, which opened in 1994. Fondly remembered by all who knew him, William Zoller retired in 2000.

A New Millennium

The new millennium brought challenges to the district that no one could have imagined. The 21st century began with fears of a Y2K shutdown along with the terror attacks of September 11th, 2001. This brought a wave of patriotism that would carry the nation through a tumultuous time. The nation would never be the same following those events. That experience prepared us for the global pandemic in 2020, which would test the resilience of the country and the district. As has happened many times, the community rallied when needed most during those trying times.

As we look ahead, the future of Kelloggsville shines with promise. The challenges we've faced have only deepened our determination to succeed. The triumphs, sacrifices, and shared successes of our past have woven a strong foundation that continues to support us today. While buildings and facilities may evolve, the true heart of Kelloggsville—our students, families, and staff—remains constant. This community has shaped our history and will continue to inspire our future. You now stand at the crossroads of where we’ve been and where we’re going, and the path forward is rich with opportunity for those ready to take it.

Renovation 2015-2024

Throughout Kelloggsville's history, Kelloggsville High School has gone through many changes, but the 2015-2024 renovations were among the most significant. These updates included a new grand entrance and main offices, a two-story media center, a main gymnasium, a weight room, and an indoor track. Former library and courtyard areas were transformed into classrooms and student workspaces. Athletic events returned to the high school for the first time since the early '90s. With the entrance relocation, the school address changed from 23 Jean Street, which had been used since 1936, to 4787 Division Avenue South. Combined with the STEM addition, these renovations brought modern, state-of-the-art features to KHS. The new STEM addition has expanded robotics,broadcasting, design, and engineering,offering students hands-on, real-world learning.Its flexible, future-focused design propelsKelloggsville into a new era of education.

ROCKET - Resilient, Forward-thinking, and Community-focused.

Sam Wright exemplifies what it means to be a ROCKET-resilient, forward-thinking, and community-focused. As one of Kent County's longest-serving superintendents, Wright guided the district through economic downturns, national crises, and a global pandemic with steady leadership and sharp business insight. His ability to adapt to the district's evolving needs while maintaining fiscal responsibility helped keep the schools strong during uncertain times. Wright not only stabilized the district but also strengthened its role in the community and expanded educational opportunities for all students. His financial foresight led to the creation of a state-of-the-art STEM addition, setting a new standard among area schools. Wright's legacy is one of strength, vision, and unwavering commitment to student success.

"As it is, we get lost in the shuffle a little. But we believe we are the best-kept secret in Kent County." ~ Sam Wright