Kalamazoo RESA Executive and Leadership Team

Robert Polderman, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Kalamazoo RESA, directs the overarching strategic vision for the agency. Overseeing the delivery of transformative educational programs, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all specialized services align with the mission of empowering learners and families throughout the Greater Kalamazoo region. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with local school districts to optimize resources and maintain high standards of inclusive education. By driving operational excellence across early childhood and career development initiatives, Robert Polderman secures the long-term impact of the agency. The President & Chief Executive Officer manages complex stakeholder relationships to ensure that educational equity remains the primary focus of all regional operations. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the agency's reputation as a vital support system for the entire community.

Jodi DeKuiper, the Chief Financial Officer at Kalamazoo RESA, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation strategies necessary to support diverse educational programs. Overseeing the financial infrastructure, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that funding for special education and educator support services remains sustainable and transparent. This role involves meticulous budget planning and the administration of complex financial systems to maximize the impact of every dollar invested in the Greater Kalamazoo region. By implementing robust fiscal controls, Jodi DeKuiper provides the stability required for the agency to expand its reach into new community initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer coordinates with the Board of Trustees to report on financial performance and long-term economic viability. Through precise management of public and private funds, the Chief Financial Officer guarantees that the agency possesses the necessary capital to deliver equitable services to all local school districts.

James Harrington, the President of Board of Trustees at Kalamazoo RESA, governs the policy framework and strategic direction of the agency. Overseeing the board's engagement with executive leadership, the President of Board of Trustees ensures that all governance activities support the mission of providing equitable educational opportunities. This role involves facilitating high-level discussions regarding regional educational needs and approving the initiatives that define the agency's service portfolio. By maintaining accountability and transparency, James Harrington fosters trust between the agency and the community organizations served. The President of Board of Trustees guides the board through complex decision-making processes to ensure that resources are directed toward the most critical areas of student development. Through consistent oversight of board operations, the President of Board of Trustees upholds the integrity of the agency while promoting long-term growth and inclusive practices across the entire region.

Skip Knowles, the President at Kalamazoo RESA, leads specific operational divisions focused on enhancing educator support and career development programs. Overseeing the implementation of professional training initiatives, the President ensures that local school districts receive the tools required to improve student outcomes. This role involves coordinating with internal departments to refine the delivery of specialized services and ensuring that all programs meet the evolving needs of the Greater Kalamazoo region. By fostering partnerships with community stakeholders, Skip Knowles expands the reach of career development efforts and strengthens the agency's impact on the local workforce. The President monitors the effectiveness of educational support services to ensure alignment with the agency's broader goals of equity and accessibility. Through active management of these key operational areas, the President drives continuous improvement and ensures that the agency remains a leader in regional educational support.