OCTOBER 2023
In This Issue
- Message From Our Superintendent
- Welcome New Staff Members
- A+ District Audit
- ROHS Hosts Future Fair
- Free Food And More
- Around The District
- Curriculum Insights
- DEI Corner
- Student CEO
- Efficient Lighting
- Did You See It On Social?
- October Calendar
- Job Postings In The District
SUPERINTENDENT'S SPOT
On September 28, 2023, the State of the Schools address was delivered to our community. During this presentation, we shared comprehensive data about the district, covering aspects such as funding sources, expenses, staffing, community support, and the curriculum's focal points. This event also served as an opportunity to showcase our district's new strategic plan, "Continuing Excellence," the result of over a year's collaborative effort involving various stakeholders. This strategic plan represents our commitments to students, staff, and the community, providing a guiding framework for our decision-making in the years ahead. Importantly, we collectively agreed that the Strategic Plan will remain a dynamic, evolving document, adaptable to incorporate current and emerging best practices and responsive to the evolving needs of our students.
You can access the State of the Schools address here and the Strategic Plan here.
I would like to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Ms. Sharida Lewis, both in her role as the Royal Oak High School principal and as a lifelong educator. Ms. Lewis retired from public education as of October 1, 2023, concluding 25 years of dedicated service to the youth of various communities. We extend our heartfelt best wishes to her for a fulfilling retirement as she transitions her focus towards her family's needs.
Stepping into the role of Interim Principal at ROHS is Mrs. Angela Ashburn, who will continue her leadership throughout the selection and appointment process for a new principal. We are exceptionally fortunate to have her expertise, with 31 years of devoted service to Royal Oak Schools, including prior roles as ROHS Assistant Principal, Principal of Northwood Elementary, and Supervisor of Addams ECC.
The ROHS principal interview process will unfold over the next few weeks, and we aim to recommend a finalist to the Board of Education on or before the Regular Meeting of the Board scheduled for November 9, 2023.
Simultaneously, we have initiated the search and selection process for a new Coordinator for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), which will also continue throughout the month of October. Our commitment to DEI work remains steadfast, involving our staff, teachers, administrators, and the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) district-level steering committee, as we strive to foster an inclusive and equitable environment within our schools and departments.
We deeply appreciate your continued support of Royal Oak Schools, and we look forward to working collaboratively to nurture the growth and success of our students and community.
- Mary Beth Fitzpatrick, Superintendent Royal Oak Schools
WELCOME Y'ALL
Our numbers keep increasing as we continue attracting new staff to the district. We are excited to welcome all of the new faces and can't wait to see what they do in their roles.
- 20 Teachers, including ancillary and professional staff
- 3 School Social Workers
- 1 School Counselor
- 2 Administrators
- 8 Paraprofessionals
Other changes: Robert Dietiker, TRAILS Supervisor, was promoted to the role of Supervisor of Elementary Special Education. We announced the placement of Angela Ashburn as Interim Principal of Royal Oak High School.
DISTRICT GETS AN A+
Royal Oak Schools has earned an A+ rating in a clean audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. The audit, conducted by independent auditor Yeo & Yeo CPAs and Business Consultants, returned no adverse findings.
The audit found Royal Oak Schools financial records and statements were fairly and appropriately presented with no significant deficiencies or material weaknesses. Jamie Rivette, Principal at Yeo & Yeo CPAs and Business Consultants, presented the audit findings at the Board of Education meeting on September 14, 2023.
She said that Royal Oak Schools was given an "Unmodified Opinion," which equals the highest level of assurance and an A+.
“We are very pleased that the thorough review by Yeo and Yeo yielded the most favorable outcome, showing that our financial practices and internal controls are followed regularly,” said Superintendent Mary Beth Fitzpatrick. “Ms. Abela does an outstanding job managing our district’s finances, and she and her team are to be commended for their outstanding attention to detail and fiscal responsibility.”
Kathy Abela, Executive Director of Finance and Operations for Royal Oak Schools, said, “The work of all Royal Oak Schools employees completes the audit. This is a goal of the Board of Education and shows our stewardship of public funds. I'm proud of this work and would like to thank the Finance team and the audit staff at Yeo & Yeo.”
View the full audit report with this link.
ROYAL OAK HIGH SCHOOL FUTURE FAIR
Royal Oak High School is excited to invite students and families from the Royal Oak area to the upcoming Future Fair on October 18, 2023. This event offers a fantastic opportunity to explore various options for your child's future journey.
With approximately 100 vendors in attendance, including colleges, universities, businesses, and trade schools, students can access valuable information and resources to help them make informed decisions about their next steps. Whether a high school student is planning for college, a parent is seeking guidance, or someone is considering career opportunities, this fair is open to all ages and has something for everyone.
“I thought it was a good layout and selection,” said one former attendee of the Future Fair at Royal Oak High School.
Another added that they were “very excited" to see the skilled trades present since that’s what they wanted to do.
At these fairs, students can uncover new colleges, majors, and career paths that may not have been on their radar previously. This exposure can assist them in narrowing down their options and also discovering opportunities for financial aid or paid learning experiences.
Moreover, these fairs can help families save money on on-campus visits. Instead of traveling to various campuses, ROHS is bringing the campuses to you. It's a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the possibilities that await your child's educational and professional journey.
“This was an amazing pool of students,” said Sarah Hudson, Groove U, Music Industry Entrepreneurship Program. “Best I have ever seen at a fair of this type.”
Mark your calendars and don't miss this chance to gain insights into your future possibilities. Join us at the ROHS Cafeteria on October 18th from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
"FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD!"
By now, you've heard that students receive complimentary breakfast and lunch this year at the district due to an appropriation in the state's School Aid budget. But did you know that doesn't mean an extra meal or a la carte items are also free? If ala carte items are sold in your child's school, you can add money to a Food Service account online through Parent Connect (this is the preferred method). A check with the student’s name on the memo line or cash can also be given at any cash register, or elementary school students can give cash or a check to their teacher or school secretary in a clearly marked envelope with the child’s first and last name.
Although all students can receive meals at no cost, it is still very important to fill out a free/reduced meal application: A school’s eligibility for federal Child Nutrition Programs such as the Summer Food Service Program and others are based on free and reduced-price eligibility. Students and families may qualify for other program fee reductions based on their eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. You can find the free and reduced lunch program application with this link.
Families who qualify for free and reduced lunch can also sign up for Blessings In A Backpack and receive enough food for three meals daily on the weekends. A food bag will be put in your child's locker for take-home on Fridays. The simple meals may include macaroni and cheese, beef ravioli, canned fruit, granola bars, soups, juice, and other items. Students will receive a bag every week.
If you want your child to participate in this program, complete the sign-up form with this link. Please be sure to indicate on the form if your child has any food allergies. If your child has a food allergy, you, as the parent or guardian, are responsible for checking all food labels when the food arrives home. Royal Oak School and Blessings in a Backpack will not be held accountable for accidental food allergen exposure.
SNAPSHOTS AROUND THE DISTRICT
Addams Early Childhood Center students have been working on fine motor skills in school.
Keller Elementary students enjoyed spending time with their buddy classes!
Here are few quick pix from Northwood Elementary around the First Day of School!
Oak Ridge first graders in Ms. Coates' class had fun practicing writing sight words with shaving cream!
Upton’s 5th Graders presented the “Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader: Constitution Edition” assembly for the school. Was it Students vs. Teachers, or did the students help the teachers? You can watch the video below to find out.
ROMS 6th Graders went to Camp Copneconic and enjoyed time in the great outdoors.
Dave Potter, Hannah Connelly, and Jamie Blake from Royal Oak Middle School took their ASD and Level III students to Multi Lakes in Commerce to teach the students hands-on learning regarding fishing and outdoor life. Newsflash - they were featured on Channel 4!
Royal Oak High School had fun participating in Homecoming activities all week! Check out our Instagram page for more pictures from spirit week!
Pam Moore, ROHS Athletics, was recently awarded the Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan High School Coaches Association. The criteria is for someone who has not only made a lasting impact with coaches and players but continues to exemplify efficiency to the fullest extent in day-to-day operations. It is an award voted on by the association. Congratulations to Pam!
TRAILS students took some time out of the classroom to hit the links!
Did you see this at the Detroit Lions game? ROHS football Coach along with former Raven Ellie Finch, were presented a check from Riddell for women in football! During Sunday's game, the Lions recognized Finch as a woman who is actively driving the game of football forward at the NFL level, in our community, and within the Detroit Lions organization as part of the first-ever Women in Football initiative, according to their website.
ENCOURAGEMENT AND EXCITEMENT THIS YEAR
In our first month of the 2023-2024 school year, we have witnessed a tremendous sense of encouragement and excitement among our students and families as they embark on this new academic journey. Alongside the start of the school year, we are also engaged in the submission of our Consolidated Application grant work for the upcoming year. This grant plays a vital role in providing support in the following areas:
- Title 1, Part A: Improving Basic Programs
- Title 2, Part A: Supporting Effective Instruction
- Title 3, Part A: Language Instruction for English Learners
- Title 3, Part A: Language Instruction for Immigrant Students
- Title 4, Part A: Student Support and Academic Enrichment
These grants, funded by the state, are instrumental in enabling our school district to establish and maintain programs in schools that require additional support and funding. They contribute to the enhancement of instruction, professional development, technological advancements, and the support of our English Language Learners. Additionally, we serve as the fiscal agent for local non-public schools and smaller public school districts, assisting them in successful planning within these focus areas.
This month's "Insight Into Learning" Curriculum video series spotlights our student athletes. At Royal Oak Schools, we recognize that our student athletes prioritize their roles as students and excel both in the classroom and on the playing field. This video offers insights into the diverse involvements of our student athletes and sheds light on the dedication it takes to be a successful student athlete. We hope you enjoy gaining a deeper understanding of the student athlete experience within the Royal Oak Schools community.
Watch this month's "Insight Into Learning" edition with this link.
And finally, don't miss this edition of the OT Newsletter on Backpack Safety and Awareness!
THIS MONTH IN THE CORNER
October is a busy month in the schools. National Bullying Month, School Principal Month, National Learning Disabilities Month, and LGBTQ+ History Month are all in October, and specific days of the month are dedicated to school personnel. October hosts School Custodian Appreciation Day, National Coaches Day, Indigenous People's Day, World Mental Health Day, and many more.
Remember, we are still honoring and celebrating Hispanic Americans this month. Mexican Independence Day was on September 16, which marked the start of Hispanic-American Heritage Month. We celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month to recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic Americans who have inspired others to succeed. Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15.
National Hispanic Month Resources
Northwood students building-wide have been celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. Some classrooms have been working on collages of notable people, while other classrooms have been creating "Frida's Wings."
FIND A WATER BOWL FOR YOUR DOG WITH BISCUIT BEACON
Sarah Milligan is a Junior at Royal Oak High School and the Founder and CEO of Biscuit Beacon. Biscuit Beacon is an app for your mobile device to improve your dog walking experience by alerting the walkers to locations of treat jars in the area and water bowls for your pooch.
"I created Biscuit Beacon to elevate everyday dog walks," Sarah said. "I was walking my Boston Terrier Percy, and we came across a treat jar on our walk, and it was joyous to find!" That treat jar gave Sarah the idea to create the app. She wishes that more places would participate and says that more users on the app will push engagement. "It works best with a lot of people on the app." That's because the app is a map where you can find public treat jars and water bowls at businesses or homes. Anyone can add to or update the app when they see a jar or water bowl or even mark if it is empty. If you add a water bowl, you'll receive "Biscuit Coins" that you can use to update your profile or other fun things on the app.
Sarah started Biscuit Beacon as an idea in 2022 as a Freshman. Her dad came up with the name! She joined a competition about developing an idea with a team for a business. She worked with two others during that virtual competition; now, she has 22 on her team. All volunteers work on app development, marketing, website development, and design. She does have some outside funding, including revenue based on ads on the app.
You can find the free app wherever you download apps for your mobile device.
SHINING A LIGHT ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY
In the previous year, Royal Oak schools embarked on a journey towards enhanced energy efficiency. To achieve this goal, they initiated a significant upgrade by replacing conventional lighting with cutting-edge LED fixtures across all classrooms and facilities. So, what sets these new lights apart?
Unlike the conventional on/off switch, the new lighting system offers a spectrum of options. With just a touch, you can instantly adjust the lighting to your preference. Whether you desire maximum brightness, complete darkness, or anything in between, the possibilities are at your fingertips. You can even reset the lights to their default settings or dim them to create the perfect ambiance.
To witness the remarkable transformation these changes have brought to our classrooms, check out our student-produced video showcasing the before-and-after effects of this lighting upgrade.
DID YOU SEE IT ON SOCIAL?
Follow us on:
- Instagram @roschools
- Facebook @RoyalOakSchools
- LinkedIn @Royal-Oak
- Threads @roschools
- Tik Tok @royal.oak.schools
- X @RoyalOakSchools
- YouTube Royal Oak Schools
Add The App
Enhance your communication and stay up-to-date by downloading our custom mobile app onto your mobile device with this link. Opting in to receive push notifications ensures you'll be promptly informed about the most recent news and updates from the District and your child's school.
DATES FOR OCTOBER
October 4, 11, 18 - Late Start For Students
October 12 - School Board Meeting
October 17 - ROPAC Meeting
October 19 - Half Day for ROHS Only
October 26 - Half Day for ROMS Only
October 31 - Half Day All Students and Staff
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR UPCOMING DATES:
November 22-24, No School - Thanksgiving Break
December 25 - January 5, - No School - Holiday Break
JOB OPENINGS
We would love to invite you to join our team. You can use this link to apply for most jobs with Royal Oak Schools: https://bit.ly/3rO26d1workforros.
Food service workers and cashiers: Chartwells Food Service hires substitute food service workers. The cashier position is from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and pays $14/hr. The cook position is at the elementary schools from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and pays $16.15/hr. After training, you would be "as needed" fill-in for sick calls, working on average 1-2 days per week. It could also become regular part-time when openings exist. Includes free lunch.
Substitute teachers: EDUStaff is our partner for substitute teachers. Please apply through their website at: edustaff.org.
Paraprofessionals: A paraprofessional works with a team of teachers to help qualified students be successful at school. These patient and caring individuals may implement academic, physical, behavioral, and self-care supports that empower students to engage with their education as independently as possible. All applicants should apply through the Oakland Schools Human Resources Consortium website at: bit.ly/3rO26d1workforros.
Individuals interested in working with and caring for school-age children before and after school for our Young Oaks (Latchkey) Program should contact the Addams Early Childhood Center at (248) 288-3220.
Bus Drivers: Durham School Services is hiring for our transportation department. A minimum of 20 hours is guaranteed, with options for more. Contact James Hollis at Durham to apply: jholls@durhamschoolservices.com.
Instructional and administrative positions: Check the Oakland Schools Consortium portal at bit.ly/3rO26d1workforros. Employment opportunities with Royal Oak Schools are on our website under Employment/HR. If you have any more questions, please contact Beth Caverly at the District Offices: elizabeth.caverly@royaloakschools.org or (248) 435-8400 x1210.
COMMENTS? STORY IDEAS?
Send them to: communications@royaloakschools.org
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The District Dispatch Mission: To inform all interested in the Royal Oak Schools community and deliver information straight to them through stories of our people, our successes, and our future.