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School Information

Hello, East Grand Rapids Community!

I am profoundly honored to serve as the East Grand Rapids High School Principal! Rich traditions, exceptional co-curricular experiences, and high expectations for excellence make our school community a special ecosystem for students to grow, develop, and achieve.

As the school’s principal, I am committed to…

  • Showing a caring attitude and positive regard for all students and families
  • Demonstrating my belief that all students can achieve at high levels
  • Listening carefully and fully investigating concerns brought to my attention
  • Returning phone calls or emails within 48 hours during the school week
  • Being present at after school events to support our students and connect with families
  • Being open to ideas that can improve our school

I look forward to opportunities to work in collaboration with community stakeholders to advance the success of our Pioneers.

Best regards,

Alex Schukow, PhD

The front of East Grand Rapids High School. 

 

Dr. Alex Schukow
High School Principal

Dr. Alex Schukow in front of a light blue background

Dr. Alex Schukow, his wife, Kristen, and his stepdaughter, Seeley Rose, live within ten minutes of East Grand Rapids High School, and they enjoy walks around Reeds Lake. His family includes two black-and-white cats named Duke and Dutchess, and a French bulldog named Dottie.  

Dr. Schukow’s leadership is guided by the following values: collaboration, belonging, growth, gratitude, and resilience. He started his professional career as a high school science teacher and has building-level administrative experience at the upper elementary, middle school, and high school levels. Dr. Schukow earned a Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership through Eastern Michigan University.

 

Nancy Scott, Administrative Assistant

Justin Noordhoek
Assistant Principal

headshot of Justin Noordhoek

Justin Noordhoek joined East Grand Rapids High School as Assistant Principal in 2026. A lifelong resident of West Michigan, he brings eighteen years of experience in education. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Grand Valley State University in 2008. Justin began his career on Beaver Island in Northern Michigan, where he worked as a cabin counselor and social studies teacher at a residential high school. He later spent more than ten years with Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, serving as a classroom teacher before transitioning to building administrator for both the alternative education program and the main high school for four years. Justin holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Aquinas College, building-level administrative certificate through the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, and an endorsement in teaching English as a Second Language.

Justin and his wife, Sara, along with their children, Brianna (13) and Aiden (9), enjoy playing board games, traveling to visit family in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and cheering on the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Tigers. Justin grounds his leadership in service to others and values building authentic relationships with staff, students, and families.

Stephanie Behrens, Attendance Administrative Assistant

Chris Zylstra
Athletic Director

Chris Zylstra at a hockey game surrounded by kids.

Chris Zylstra joined EGRPS in 2021 as the Director of Athletics at East Grand Rapids High School. Chris earned his Bachelor of Arts from Aquinas College in secondary education with an emphasis in social studies. He also earned his Master of Science in educational leadership from Western Governors University.

Before coming to East Grand Rapids High School, he taught and coached baseball and football at various high schools in South Carolina, Quincy High/Middle Schools in Michigan, and Wyoming High School in Michigan. Chris also served as the Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Lakeview High School for the 2020-2021 school year.  

Chris and his wife, Bryttani, have two daughters, Lawsyn (7) and Mara (3). Chris is passionate about the East Grand Rapids community and all of our athletic programs, as we continue to grow our shared athletic program and strive to continue the Tradition of Excellence!

 

Wende Johnson, Administrative Assistant