Back to School Newsletter

Dear Southfield Public Schools Community,

As we begin the 2024-2025 school year, I am thrilled to welcome back our students, families, teachers, and staff. It is an honor to lead this incredible educational community and to work together toward another year of learning, growth, and achievement.

Our commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students remains steadfast. This year, we are excited to introduce new programs, enhance our curriculum, and continue fostering an environment where every student feels supported and inspired to reach their full potential. Our dedicated staff have been working diligently to prepare for the school year, ensuring our classrooms are vibrant, inclusive, and ready for learning.

To our students, I encourage you to approach this year with curiosity and determination. Embrace the opportunities before you and remember that each challenge is a chance to grow. Your perseverance and enthusiasm are the heart of our schools, and I look forward to celebrating your achievements throughout the year.

To our parents and guardians, thank you for your unwavering support and partnership. Your involvement is crucial to our students' success, and together, we can create a nurturing and enriching educational experience.

To our teachers and staff, your dedication and hard work make all the difference. Your passion for education and commitment to our students are truly inspiring. I am grateful for your continued efforts and excited for the positive impact we will make together.

As we embark on this new school year, let us work collaboratively, support one another, and strive for excellence in all we do. I am confident that, with our collective efforts, this will be a remarkable year for Southfield Public Schools.

Welcome back, and let’s make this school year extraordinary!

Educationally,

Dr. Jennifer Green
Superintendent, Southfield Public Schools

Southfield Public Schools is excited to announce the appointment of several dynamic leaders for the 2024-2025 school year. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to fostering academic excellence and a supportive learning environment for all students.

University K-12 Academy: Sakina Bolden, Martin Sanford, Kathy Slate, Courtney White

University K-12 Academy welcome Sakina Bolden as Head Dean, bringing her innovative approach and commitment to integrating social-emotional learning with academic excellence. Mr. Martin Sanford steps in as the 9th-12th grade associate dean, with 35 years of dedicated service and deep roots in our school community. Mrs. Kathy Slate will lead grades 6-8, leveraging her 20 years of experience to continue driving academic growth. For grades K-5, Mrs. Courtney White brings 15 years of inspiring leadership focused on fostering a positive, inclusive environment.

Southfield High School for the Arts and Technology: Kelly Patterson

Southfield High School for the Arts and Technology welcomes Kelly Patterson as the new assistant principal. Patterson brings extensive experience in secondary education and is dedicated to supporting student's academic and creative endeavors.

Thompson K-8 International Academy: Porsha Eubanks

Thompson K-8 International Academy introduces Porsha Eubanks as its new principal. Formerly the principal of Vandenberg Elementary School, Eubanks is committed to enhancing Thompson's international baccalaureate program and fostering a global perspective among students.

Birney K-8 School: Tierra Baldwin and Kim Pritchett

Birney K-8 School welcomes Tierra Baldwin as its new principal and Kim Pritchett as the new assistant principal. Baldwin, who previously served as the assistant principal at Birney, is dedicated to creating equitable and accessible educational opportunities. Alongside Baldwin, Pritchett is committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive. Together, they aim to enhance the educational experience for all students at Birney.

McIntyre Elementary School: Orlando Bogins

Orlando Bogins is the new principal at McIntyre Elementary School. He previously served as the Dean of the University Middle and High School Academy, where he implemented programs that boosted student engagement and achievement. His leadership is centered around collaboration and inclusivity.

Looking Forward

Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Green expressed her enthusiasm for the new appointments, stating, "We are excited to see these dedicated leaders step into their new roles. Having already been valuable members of our district, their proven commitment to education and their fresh perspectives will enhance our schools and further our mission to provide an exceptional education for all scholars."

The Southfield Public Schools community looks forward to a successful year under the guidance of these new leaders. Their collective expertise and passion for education promise to inspire and elevate the learning experiences of all scholars in the district.

Adler Elementary School is a vibrant educational institution serving over 300 Kindergarten through 5th grade students. To begin the 2024-2025 school year, the school boasts a brand-new building funded by bond dollars, enhancing its facilities and learning environment. Although still located at 19100 Filmore Southfield, Michigan 48075, the building has undergone a significant overhaul, transforming the school's look and feel. The renovations include a new HVAC system, which provides heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. Adler has new playground equipment, increased security with new doors and windows, new flooring, maintenance and architectural improvements, new bathrooms with updated features, enhanced technology throughout the building, and much, much more.

Starting in the 2024-2025 school year, MacArthur K-8 University Academy and University Middle and High School Academies will unite under one unified identity as University K-12 Academy. This integration marks an exciting step (forward) in aligning our educational vision, resources, and community. By combining the strengths of these two institutions, the University K-12 Academy will provide a seamless, cohesive learning experience that supports scholars from kindergarten through 12th grade. Our commitment to academic excellence and holistic development will be stronger than ever, fostering a unified community of scholars prepared for success in college, careers, and beyond.

In our continued commitment to delivering an outstanding education and state-of-the-art facilities for our scholars, Stevenson Elementary School will temporarily relocate to Eisenhower Elementary School for the 2024-2025 school year.

Located at 24500 Larkins Road, Eisenhower Elementary School will serve as the temporary home while the current facilities undergo significant renovations and upgrades. We are eager to witness the enhancements that will further enrich our students' learning experiences.

Vandenberg World Cultures Academy and Thompson K-8 International Academy have officially merged into one school under Thompson K-8 International Academy, a transition promising new experiences and opportunities.

The theme for the upcoming school year is “United in Excellence.” This theme emphasizes unity and collaboration as the two schools unite, highlighting our shared goal of achieving academic and personal success. This merger allows us to combine strengths, foster new friendships, and create a cohesive, supportive environment for the families of Southfield and Lathrup Village.

Congratulations to the 2024 Women Rock Science Outstanding Educator Award recipient: Kisha McKee, 6th/8th Grade Science/STEM Teacher, and Science Curriculum Coordinator at Thompson K-8 International Academy of Southfield Public Schools!

Ms. McKee believes science is everywhere and that the best exposure to it is by doing science! Her Masters in Teaching and Science research while at Wayne State University focused on “The Importance of Science in the Early Years,” as she believes children should be engaged at a young age to promote and facilitate their love for science.

Ms. McKee applies this mindset in her classroom where her students are encouraged to use their prior knowledge, build procedures, and be out-of-the-box thinkers.

Ms. Mckee is a dedicated educator currently in her 28th year of teaching. During this time, she has been selected as teacher of the month five times and has been recognized as the Teacher of the Year by the Communities In Schools Program!

She isn’t just a distinguished educator, but a leader and inspiration for the young minds of tomorrow.

Join the Cranbrook Institute of Science Wednesday, October 9, for the 7th Annual Women Rock Science Fundraising Gala to celebrate Ms. Kisha McKee’s outstanding and inspiring contributions in the STEAM fields and Southfield Public Schools.

To learn more visit: https://science.cranbrook.edu/women-rock-science

The school year is already in full swing, but it's never too late to access valuable tips and resources! Check out these caregiver back-to-school resources from the National Center for School Safety to help support your child’s success: Caregiver Resources

We loved seeing all the smiling faces on the first day of school! It was a joy to welcome our students back to the classrooms, and we’re excited to share some of these special moments with you. Check out our photo gallery featuring students, staff, and families celebrating the start of a new school year. If you captured a great first-day moment, we’d love to see it—please share your photos with us, and you might see them featured in our next newsletter or on our social media channels. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!

Southfield Public Schools is accepting nominations for Employee of the Month and Partner of the Month. At each regular board meeting, a SPS employee and a SPS partner (DM Burr, SFE, First Student, Oakland Schools IT, GDI, Procare, M-1 Studios, Kelly Services, Midwest, Elite Staffing, Soliant, etc.) will be recognized for their hard work, dedication, creativity and/or ingenuity.

To submit your nomination, please click the link to fill out the form on our website: Submit Nominations

As we begin another exciting school year, the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families remain one of our top priorities. One area of focus is maintaining safety in our parking lots during drop-off and pick-up times.

We kindly ask for your cooperation in following these important parking lot safety guidelines:

1. Drive Slowly and Cautiously: Please observe the posted speed limit and always be prepared to stop for pedestrians, especially during busy arrival and dismissal times.
2. Use Designated Drop-off and Pick-up Zones: To keep traffic moving smoothly and safely, please only use the designated areas for dropping off or picking up your children. Avoid stopping in the middle of the parking lot or along non-designated curbs.
3. Follow the Directions of Staff and Crossing Guards: Our staff members and crossing guards are there to ensure everyone’s safety. Please respect their instructions and be patient, even if there is a wait.
4. Yield to Pedestrians: Remember, pedestrians have the right of way. Please be vigilant, especially around crosswalks and sidewalks where students and families may be walking.
5. Avoid Distracted Driving: Please refrain from using your cell phone or other distractions while driving in the parking lot. A moment of inattention can lead to serious accidents.
6. Park in Designated Spaces Only: For everyone's safety, please park only in designated spots and avoid double parking or blocking driveways.

By working together and following these simple guidelines, we can ensure that everyone arrives and leaves school safely each day. We appreciate your commitment to keeping our school community safe.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding parking lot procedures, please don’t hesitate to contact your school’s office.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Due to forecasted weather conditions, the Southfield High School for the Arts and Technology (Southfield A&T) football game originally scheduled for Friday, August 30th, 2024, starting at 7:00 PM has been moved up to 5:30 PM on Friday at Southfield A&T.

We understand this adjustment may impact your plans, and we appreciate your flexibility as we prioritize the safety of our students, staff, and community. We hope you will join us in supporting the Warriors at the new game time on Friday evening!

If you have any questions, please contact our Athletic Director, Omar Ahart, at omar.ahart@southfieldk12.org.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support of Southfield A&T Athletics.

• August 30th - Sept. 2nd - No School Labor Day Recess
• Sept. 3rd - Classes Resume
• Sept. 10th - Board of Education Meeting
• Sept. 18 - No School District Professional Development
• Oct. 8th - Board of Education Meeting
• Oct. 16th - No School District Professional Development

Click HERE to view the calendar for the 2024-25 school year.

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