GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- At Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy (UPrep), Principal Kenyatta Hill-Hall embodies the spirit of dedication and community that defines the school community. Hill-Hall, a proud product of Grand Rapids Public Schools, sees her role not just as an educator, but as a change agent for scholars across the city.
“UPrep is my baby,” she exclaimed with pride. “We get scholars from the north side, south side - all over the Grand Rapids area. It allows a lot of variety and brings in different experiences from their neighborhoods into one family environment.”
Hill-Hall’s journey to leadership is deeply rooted in her GRPS upbringing.
“My father taught for many years in Grand Rapids Public Schools,” she shared. “I thought I would forever be an elementary teacher because that's where my beginnings started.” However, a mentor at Stocking Elementary saw something more in her. He said, “‘You have some leadership abilities. Have you ever thought about being a principal?’ I remember saying, ‘No, no one likes the principal!’” But his encouragement gave her a new perspective.
“Being a principal and instructional leader, you have the opportunity to create and impact a whole system,” she explained.
Hill-Hall’s relationship with UPrep began in its early years, starting as an eighth-grade teacher before becoming assistant principal, then principal.
“We really are intentional about building that relationship. We know when to push, when to slow down, and when we need to allow kids to have flexibility. As an instructional leader, my team and I have been able to do some really impactful things that have shifted and changed our scholars’ trajectory on their life.”
Her love for UPrep is evident in every word she speaks.
“I love UPrep! UPrep is my place to be!”
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