SPECIAL Blue Devil Bulletin

Dear Blue Devils,

After serving as principal at Grosse Pointe South for 11 wonderful years, I share my transition to a new position in the Grosse Pointe Schools with mixed emotions. Last week, the Board of Education approved my appointment as the new Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for our district. This exciting opportunity will allow me to serve and advocate for all students and staff across our schools.

Reflecting on my time at South fills me with immense gratitude. Over the course of my career, I have had the opportunity to work in several esteemed districts in the Metro area and connect with colleagues across the state. These first- hand observations and conversations have solidified my belief that there is not a better place for teaching and learning in Michigan than Grosse Pointe South. While we have earned numerous accolades and enjoyed wide ranging success, I am most proud of the character of our students and the culture of our school. We often state that it is not sufficient for our students to aspire to be the best IN the world, rather, we need them to aspire to be the best FOR the world. Grosse Pointe South students exemplify this belief through their daily interactions with each other, our staff, and the greater community.

This is a bittersweet moment for me. Leaving South feels like leaving a second home, and I will deeply miss the daily interactions with our incredible students, staff, and families. The bonds and relationships we have built mean the world to me and will forever hold a special place in my heart. I would not be where I am today without all of you. Each of you has played a vital role in shaping the leader and person I have become. We have celebrated successes, grown through challenges, and shared moments of joy and reflection. My eleven years at South have been transformative. Every interaction has enriched my perspective, deepened my commitment to education, and grown my love for South. For that, I am forever grateful.

Grosse Pointe is a truly extraordinary community, and I am honored to have had the privilege of leading South and now to serve our district in this new capacity. While I carry a heavy heart as I say goodbye, I am inspired by the opportunity to continue championing excellence in education for all.

Our Superintendent, Dr. Tuttle, and I are committed to a seamless transition that maintains stability and continuity for the South community. Dr. Tuttle has shared with staff a plan (outlined below ) that maps out our path forward. This includes the appointment of Ms. Parravano as the principal for the remainder of the school year. Ms. Parravano has served alongside me for 8 years in her capacity as assistant principal. I am confident in her abilities to lead our school and ask that you join me in congratulating and supporting her in her new role.

Thank you for the trust, support, and love you have shown me over the years. I will always cherish the memories we’ve made together. I look forward to seeing the continued success of this remarkable school community.

With gratitude and best wishes,

Moussa Hamka

Leadership Transition for South High School

(Please note this plan is tentative and subject to change should circumstances arise that necessitate adjustments)

• Appointment of Ms. Cindy Parravano as Principal : we are pleased to announce that Ms. Cindy Parravano has been appointed as Principal of South High School, effective January 6, 2025, through the remainder of the 2024–2025 academic year. After thoughtful discussions, Ms. Parravano has graciously accepted this significant leadership role.

• Interim Assistant Principal Posting : A posting will be issued for an Interim Assistant Principal to serve South High School through the conclusion of the 2024–2025 school year.

• Principal Position for the 2025–2026 School Year: The position of Principal for South High School will be posted, with interviews scheduled by June 2025.

• While Ms. Parravano will not participate in the initial interview process, she remains a strong candidate for the permanent position.

• Should the interviews confirm her as the best candidate, I will recommend her appointment. If another candidate is identified as more suitable, Ms. Parravano will return to her role as Assistant Principal.

• Assistant Principal Position for the 2025–2026 School Year: A posting for the Assistant Principal position may follow in June or July 2025, after the confirmation and contract signing of the new principal. The incoming principal will actively participate in the selection process to ensure alignment with their vision for the school.

• Administrative Transition - Mr. Moussa Hamka will continue to divide his time between South High School and the Central Office through the end of the first semester. At which time he will fully transition into his new role as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. He will continue to provide guidance and mentorship to the South team.

• Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2025: At the request of Ms. Parravano and with Mr. Hamka and my full support, Mr. Hamka's signature will appear on diplomas, and he will deliver the address to the graduating Class of 2025. This decision honors Mr. Hamka's strong connection to the students, having served as their principal for most of their time at South High School.