Ben Kirby joined Forest Hills Public Schools in July 2024 as superintendent, bringing more than three decades of public education experience and a deep commitment to the success of every learner. His career reflects a steady progression in leadership, rooted in relationship-building, collaboration, and the belief that competence and character go hand in hand.
Ben began his career as a sixth-grade teacher in Central Montcalm Public Schools before spending 24 years with Ionia Public Schools, where he grew from teacher and coach to middle school assistant principal, middle school principal, high school principal, and ultimately associate superintendent. He later served as assistant superintendent in South Lyon Community Schools before being named superintendent of Lake Orion Community Schools in 2020, a role he held until coming to Forest Hills.
A proud Spartan, Ben holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Michigan State University, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Western Michigan University, and an educational specialist degree in educational leadership from Grand Valley State University.
Ben’s leadership philosophy is grounded in the power of relationships. He believes that meaningful collaboration, with students, staff, families, and the broader community, is at the heart of every thriving school district. He is a committed listener and a champion for the people and programs that make Forest Hills exceptional. Central to his vision is One Forest Hills, the idea that while our three attendance areas each have their own proud identity and traditions, we are united by a shared commitment to excellence, equity, and opportunity for every student across every FHPS program.
Ben deeply believes that Forest Hills educators are champions of hope and that every teacher, support staff member, and administrator has the power to change a child’s trajectory through encouragement, high expectations, and genuine care. He is committed to fostering a culture where that belief is lived out every day in every classroom and hallway across the district.
Safety and security are a cornerstone of Ben’s leadership. He is dedicated to ensuring that every student, staff member, and community member feels safe, supported, and protected in Forest Hills facilities, and has made strengthening the district’s safety and security measures a priority since joining FHPS.
Equally important to Ben is the culture within the organization itself. He is deeply committed to building and strengthening a workplace where every person, regardless of role or title, feels that their contributions matter and that they are a vital part of something larger than themselves. Ben believes that a thriving school district is built on the collective effort of everyone in it, from classroom teachers and building principals to custodians, food service workers, bus drivers, and beyond. Under his leadership, Forest Hills has embraced a culture of recognition and celebration, honoring the everyday contributions that make the district exceptional and reinforcing that each person plays an irreplaceable role in the success of every student. That commitment to people makes Forest Hills more than a great place to learn; it makes it an exceptional place to work, grow, live, and thrive.
Since coming to Forest Hills, Ben has also championed new pathways for the district’s youngest learners. Under his leadership, FHPS launched a Junior Kindergarten program, giving children an exceptional early entry point into a Forest Hills education, building the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity, growth, and possibility.
With a vision rooted in unity, hope, and the limitless potential of every child, Ben Kirby leads Forest Hills Public Schools with purpose, passion, and an unwavering belief that the best is always yet to come.