March Redford Union Newsletter

Dear Panther Families,

Your Partner in Education,

We are dedicated to ensuring a safe, engaging, and nurturing learning environment where students can thrive. To continue this commitment, the District is proposing a $44.375 million bond program on the May 6th ballot—at Zero tax-rate increase!

This bond will fund important District-wide improvements, building on the progress made through the 2021 bond program. While many upgrades have been completed in recent years, additional projects—including infrastructure enhancements, HVAC system updates, site work, and instructional technology improvements—are essential to further strengthening our schools. You can learn more about the bond here.

We’re thrilled to remind you of The Best School Day Ever initiative—a surprise-filled, off-campus adventure designed to spark curiosity, build community connections, and create lifelong memories for every student and staff member. Imagine walking into school, only to find out it’s not a normal day—it’s The Best School Day Ever! Students and staff will head out for an action-packed, hands-on learning experience at a fun, carefully chosen location. It’s a special way to bring learning to life while ensuring a safe and engaging experience.

The best part? The exact date for each school is a secret. Students won’t know until they arrive that morning, making the surprise even more exciting. The District is fully funding this unforgettable experience—so no fees are involved. Your child’s principal will share any special details in advance, including what to bring. Permission slips are required, so be on the lookout for more information from your child’s school.

The Lady Panthers Varsity Basketball team has done it! With an electrifying 42-27 victory over the Detroit Lion King, they’ve clinched their first District Championship win since 2017! This milestone is a testament to their dedication, teamwork and relentless spirit. We couldn’t be prouder of these athletes for bringing home the title. Join us in celebrating this incredible achievement—Congratulations, Lady Panthers!

To celebrate National Reading Month, our English department organized a special Read-A-Thon, giving students the opportunity to embrace their love for reading and literacy. During their ELA classes, students enjoyed a dedicated hour with their favorite book while bringing a cozy item, such as a blanket or stuffed animal, to make the experience even more enjoyable. As they immersed themselves in their reading, students not only connected with their books but also with one another through shared literary enthusiasm.

In addition, students participated in Read Across RUJH Spirit Week, showcasing their school spirit each day and ending the week by dressing up as their favorite book character. Those who participated had the exciting chance to win a book from the book vending machine! A huge thank you to the RUJH English department for organizing such engaging and fun activities to inspire a love of reading among our students!

Earlier this month, our eighth-grade Advanced Social Studies students put their knowledge and creativity to the test at the History Day competition held at the Detroit Historical Society. Fifteen of our students presented their projects to a panel of esteemed social studies educators in Wayne County. We are excited to announce that four of our students have advanced to the state finals at Central Michigan University in April! A huge congratulations to the entire class for their dedication, and best of luck to our four finalists as they take their historical research to the next level!

March is Reading Month, and our young readers got a special treat. Two fantastic guests—Megan, Principal Nickel’s daughter, and the wonderful Mrs. Dillard—stopped by to share their love of books with our preschool and kindergarten classes. And what better place to dive into a great story than in the amazing camping-themed reading room created by Mrs. Young? With cozy surroundings and adventurous tales, our students had a magical reading experience. A big thank you to Megan and Mrs. Dillard for making story time extra special!

Tiffany Carlton, RUJH Social Emotional Learning Specialist, has been making a meaningful impact on the students for the past two years. Through her work, Tiffany helps students develop essential skills in self-awareness, relationship-building and emotional intelligence—key foundations for success in and beyond the classroom. Her advice to students is to “Embrace the process of learning about yourself and others. Remember, building strong relationships and understanding emotions will guide you in making positive choices for your future.” Thank you, Tiffany, for your commitment to fostering a supportive and emotionally enriching environment for our students!

We are excited to highlight one of our high school seniors, Jade Jolliffi. Jade is a baton twirler with the Redford Union Marching Band, a member of the student council and the Grit team. Jade has received a variety of accolades, such as the summa cum laude reward, a sports broadcasting scholarship, a QPR gatekeeper certificate and a varsity letter in marching band and wrestling. Jade says the best part about RUHS is “having a safe space to be able to learn, grow and have fun. Redford Union has always created a welcoming environment for students to truly be themselves and embrace their differences.” After high school, Jade hopes to attend Lawerence Technical University to major in Civil Engineering.

This month’s "Panther Proud" spotlight features Kelly Patel, one of our first-grade teachers at Hilbert Elementary. Ms. Patel is proud to work closely with her teaching assistant, Ms. Amy Davis. Ms. Patel and Ms. Davis work in tandem to teach their students in small group learning and reach social-emotional and behavioral goals. Teaching assistants are the backbone to our classrooms, and we are “Panther Proud” to have them in our classrooms. Check out the video to learn more!

Teachtown transforming education for students