Our Team

Gerry serves as the Principal for Kent Innovation High and completed his post-secondary education at Grand Valley State University and Wright State University.  He also serves as the Principal forMyschool@Kent and is the program supervisor for Kent ISD’s new teacher mentorship program called the New Teacher Community.  Gerry was a secondary science teacher for 16 years. He has been nominated for the Michigan Teacher of the Year, Michigan Science Teacher of the Year, and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science. In his “spare” time, he is also the head cross country and track coach at Grace Christian University in Grand Rapids.

MelanieRose is the administrative Assistant for MySchool@Kent & Kent Innovation High. Her experience includes working for a non-profit managing a grant from United Way to prepare young adults for their GED exams. Additionally, MelanieRose previously worked as an instructor/academic coach for SuccessLink from 2012-2015. She is very happy to return to MySchool@Kent serving students and their families from all over Kent County.  

Mr. Spaans serves as the English facilitator at Kent Innovation High. He is a Forest Hills Central and GVSU graduate and has taught English for several years, including Honors, AP, and SAT/ACT Test Prep. Mr. Spaans also tutors these subjects and has worked with hundreds of local students over the years. His passions include music, martial arts (which he also teaches), video games, and basketball. 

2021-21 is my fourth year teaching at Kent Innovation High.  Prior to coming to KIH, I worked in the professional education setting at Spectrum Health in the Patient Access Education Department.  When an opportunity at KIH opened up, I knew it was the perfect fit for my personality and teaching style.  I recognize the value of bringing the projects from the community into the classroom.  

Hi! I am the Civics/Economics facilitator at KIH, working mostly with the 11th grade students. I received my bachelor’s degree at Grand Valley State University in Secondary Education, Social Studies, and Psychology. I absolutely love making connections with other people and I find value in quality, positive interactions.

Laine loves teenagers and facilitating learning! KIH is a great fit for her and she loves her job! She has a background in teaching special education and being a teacher consultant; the majority of her career in Kentwood Public Schools. She has been a Strategic Learning Specialist, mentor, department head, administrator and has designed curriculum.