Our Principals
MHS Principal - Mr. Jim Polite
Ph. 269-756-7872
e-mail: jim.polite@rivervalleyschools.org
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My name is Jim Polite. It is my privilege to serve as the Principal of River Valley MHS! I have been an
educator for the past 26 years, with 16 years being at the administrative level. Being the product of a
smaller school, I appreciate the uniqueness and sense of belonging that is enjoyed by the students, staff
and community of River Valley School District.
River Valley MHS has an outstanding tradition of providing our students with a safe learning
environment and a challenging curriculum. We have an outstanding staff this dedicated to helping each
student meet their full academic and social potential. I look forward to working with our River Valley
family for many years to come.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me for assistance.
Go Mustangs!
Jim Polite
Assistant Principal/Athletic Director - Mrs. Heather Briney-Kelm
Ph. 269-756-7872
e-mail: heather.briney-kelm@rivervalleyschools.org
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Hello, my name is Heather Briney-Kelm, but everyone calls me Mrs. BK! I live in St. Joseph with my husband, son and two Dalmatians. My daughter attends Lake Superior State University and plays volleyball for the Lakers! I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Aquinas College where I played basketball and softball for the Saints. I received my Masters degree from Western Michigan University. During my teaching years, I served as an elementary classroom teacher, mentor, student council advisor and have served on many leadership committees as well as acting principal when mine was away. I have been teaching and coaching for over 28 years and I continue to challenge myself for the benefit of all of the lives that I touch every day. I genuinely care about my students, parents and staff and enjoy leading them to new successes! My vision is to provide an environment where everyone feels welcome and is happy to come to school everyday. I commit to coming daily with a smile on my face! I am so excited to join the Mustang family!
My Motto: “Create positivity one person at a time!”
Mrs. BK