Sparta — For the first time in years, Appleview Elementary has two full-time administrators at the helm, and both Principal Beth Lehner and Assistant Principal Riley Kuzniewski share a love of the school and a sense of optimism about its future.
“Both of us have history in the building,” Lehner said of the third- through fifth-grade school. “So as far as the culture and all of that, we know it, we get it, we understand it, we cherish it, we want to do our very best to continue it.”
Up until recently, the head principal position has been a part-time role divided between Appleview and the kindergarten through second-grade Ridgeview building. Lehner and Kuzniewski said they’re “excited about the possibilities” of starting a school year with a more robust administrative office.
Riley Kuzniewski
Assistant principal, Appleview Elementary
Other positions held in education: Kuzniewski got his start working as substitute paraprofessional in Brookfield-LaGrange Park School District 95 near Chicago. He then taught fifth grade in Godwin Heights before coming to Sparta, where he started as a substitute before being hired full-time as a fifth-grade teacher.
What drew you to Sparta? Kuzniewski had heard nothing but great things about the district, so he applied for a subbing position and “immediately fell in love with it.”
“There’s a very different vibe here,” he said. “It was just the climate, I think, that drew me in.”
Why did you want to become an administrator? “We have a special staff here, and being able to support them in a larger capacity was a driving factor in wanting to join administration. Additionally, being able to support and interact with a larger group of students was a big reason for wanting to step into this role.”
Education/degrees: Kuzniewski holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational leadership, both from Central Michigan University.
Name some great things about going into K-12 education: “Seeing the growth of the students and staff alike. I think staff grow just as much as students. … Watching adults learn from kids, and kids learn from adults, and being able to see that on the large scale — it’s just something I enjoy,” Kuzniewski said, adding that he also loves working collaboratively with others and helping students and staff succeed.
Dogs or cats and why? “100% dogs. They’re more playful.”
What book, movie, TV show or podcast have you loved lately? “My fiancée and I just got done watching ‘Stick’ on Apple TV. … It’s about a washed-up golfer who finds and mentors a kid. I obviously like mentoring kids, so that part resonates. And it has a lot of themes about resilience and overcoming challenges and obstacles.”
What would you like to share about your family? Kuzniewski comes from a family full of educators — teachers, principals and superintendents.
He and his fiancée are getting married in November.
‘Watching adults learn from kids, and kids learn from adults, and being able to see that on the large scale — it’s just something I enjoy.’
— Appleview Assistant Principal Riley Kuzniewski
Beth Lehner
Principal, Appleview Elementary
SNN interviewed Lehner when she became assistant principal at Appleview, and followed up with a few additional questions in light of her new position.
Other positions you have held in education: Lehner has spent her entire career at Appleview, teaching third, fourth and fifth grade before moving into administration.
What drew you to Sparta? “Back when I was hired, there was a lot of competition for the job. So I was doing some subbing. Through that experience, I got to learn more about Sparta. Plus, I graduated from Coopersville, so I’ve known Sparta — and known the community — and I just love the feel that this district has. Specifically this building. It’s just a very tight-knit staff, where we all care a lot about each other and help each other out.”
Why did you want to become an administrator? “I want to support teachers in the admirable work they do every day to serve our students. I find great satisfaction in the creative thinking that comes with this role, and I value the opportunity to help create the conditions that allow both students and staff to thrive.”
Name some great things about going into K-12 education: Topping Lehner’s list are the energy of the kids, the ability to help students and staff, and the opportunity for a “fresh start” every fall.
What book, movie, TV show or podcast have you loved lately? Lehner said she and her daughter recently watched “Simone Biles Rising” on Netflix.
“I just thought that was empowering, especially with my teenage daughter. Like, ‘Hey, there are going to be ups and downs in life, and how you push through is important.’”
‘I want to support teachers in the admirable work they do every day to serve our students.’
— Appleview Principal Beth Lehner
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