AUGUST 2025
In This Issue
- From The Superintendent
- Back To School Information
- Curriculum Insights: Accreditation
- New Faces, New Places
- Around The District
- Family Welcome Back Night
- Community Conversations
- Save The Date
- Social Media
- Continuing Ed
- August Calendar
- Job Postings In The District
WELCOME TO THE 2025-26 SCHOOL YEAR!
From Dr. John Tafelski, Superintendent of Royal Oak Schools
As we look ahead to the start of a new academic year, I want to extend a warm welcome to all our Royal Oak Schools families and staff members. The first day of school for students is Monday, August 25, 2025, and we’re excited to open our doors to another year of learning, growth, and community.
As the new superintendent of Royal Oak Schools, I am looking forward to fresh perspectives and a shared vision for the future. Our focus remains grounded in our district mission: to foster an inclusive, diverse, safe, and student-first environment where all learners grow and thrive. We’re energized by the opportunity to build on the strong foundation already in place while charting new paths forward.
In the days leading up to the students’ return, our staff will come together to reconnect, prepare classrooms, and engage in professional learning. This time is essential as we welcome new team members, align our goals, and participate in important training to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all.
To those staff and administrators who have retired or moved on to new chapters—thank you for your years of service and dedication to our students. You have made a lasting impact on our Community of Excellence. At the same time, we are thrilled to welcome new educators and support staff to our team. The energy, talent, and fresh perspectives they bring will strengthen our mission to create a student-first, growth-minded, and inclusive learning environment.
We are going to work each and every day to ensure our students are challenged, inspired, and feel welcome. Let’s make this a year of purpose, partnership, and progress.
NEED TO KNOW
As we prepare for the start of the 2025–2026 school year, Royal Oak Schools is committed to ensuring that every student and family has the necessary tools and information for a smooth and successful return. Below, you’ll find important dates, registration details, and helpful resources to help your family prepare for the first day of school.
The first day of school is Monday, August 25, 2025. Families will receive school-specific information directly from their building principal. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back!
Annual Registration Opens August 4
Annual Registration for all students opens on Monday, August 4, 2025. This is a required yearly process for all Royal Oak Schools families to register their children for the upcoming school year. Families can begin the process by visiting their MISTAR-Q Parent Portal.
To complete Annual Registration:
- Log in to the MIStar Parent Portal on or after August 4.
- The "Annual Registration" link will be in red on the upper right-hand corner.
- Follow this link for detailed instructions.
Parents or guardians should complete Annual Registration before the first day of school. Annual Registration must be completed to view your student's schedule upon release in mid-August.
Kindergarten Health Screenings Required
Before starting kindergarten, Michigan law requires children to have dental, hearing, and vision screenings. Free screenings are available through the Oakland County Health Division. To schedule an appointment, call 248-424-7070. Be sure to complete these important steps before the start of the school year.
Additional Resources for Families
As you prepare for the new school year, be sure to review the following important resources:
- 2025–2026 School Calendar – [Download the calendar]
- Child Care, Preschool, and Latchkey Programs – [Learn more]
- Fall Sports Schedules – [Check schedules here]
- Free & Reduced Lunch and Food Service Information – [Click here for details]
- Point Of Contact - [Open Communication Matters]
- Royal Oak Schools Custom Mobile App - [Stay connected]
- School Supply Lists – [View supply lists by school]
- Student Accident Insurance - [Find out more here]
- Student Handbooks and Required Forms – [Access here]
- Weekend Meal Support Available – [Sign up today]
Get Involved!
Royal Oak Schools is now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 Board of Education Advisory Committees, including Arts & Preservation, Communications, and Wellness. These committees offer community members and students the opportunity to provide input and collaborate on key district initiatives. Separate applications for adults and students can be found on the Royal Oak Schools website under the “District” tab on the Board of Education Committees page. Questions? Contact Jennifer Perkins at 248-435-8400, ext. 1228.
We’re enhancing our profile on Niche, and we’d love your help. Niche is an online platform that connects families to schools through detailed profiles, data, and community reviews. Whether you're an alum, parent, or community member, your voice matters. Please take a moment to share your experience at Royal Oak Schools—your story could help future students and families find their place in our district. We value your feedback and appreciate your support! [Click here to write a review and get started.]
Back to School is the perfect time to get involved. Joining your school’s PTA or PTSA is a meaningful way to support students, connect with other families, and make a lasting impact. When you become a member, you’re not just signing up—you’re stepping up to make a difference in your child’s education and school community. We are grateful for the dedicated parents and students who lead these efforts at every building. Their work makes a real difference in our school community.
Here’s what they are all about:
- 💙 Championing kids’ well-being—at home, in school, and in our communities
- 🎯 Raising the bar for family and school life standards
- 🛡️ Protecting children and youth by supporting smart, effective laws
- 🤝 Building bridges between families and educators to create a team approach to learning
- 🌟 Ensuring every child gets the best opportunities—mentally, socially, emotionally, and spiritually
Volunteers play an important role in the success of our students and the strength of our school community. We value your time, talents, and willingness to get involved. If you're interested in volunteering, start by contacting your school’s principal to learn about specific opportunities and needs within the building, such as joining a Green Team or supporting students with composting efforts. Occasional volunteers—those helping once or twice a year under direct staff supervision—will receive guidance directly from the school. Ready to get started or want to learn more? [Click here for details.]
ACCREDITATION FROM COGNIA
We’re proud to share that Royal Oak Schools has officially earned accreditation from Cognia, a respected global leader in educational excellence. This recognition—awarded on June 26, 2025—confirms that our district meets rigorous standards for quality, continuous improvement, and student success.
The accreditation process reviewed everything from instruction and leadership to resource use, validating the incredible work of our students, staff, and school community. It also ensures that our diplomas and transcripts are widely recognized and respected.
This milestone strengthens our commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and student-first learning environment—aligned with our mission and vision for a Community of Excellence.
NEW IN THE DISTRICT
There’s something special about a new school year—the fresh energy, renewed purpose, and the excitement of new beginnings. This year, we’re proud to welcome many new staff members to our district family. From medical skills and English language teachers, to paraprofessionals, athletics staff, secretaries, and support personnel, each new team member brings unique talents and perspectives that will strengthen our schools and support our students.
These professionals are more than new hires—they’re now part of the Royal Oak Schools community. Their dedication to students and learning aligns with our mission to create a safe, inclusive, and student-first environment. We can’t wait for you to meet them and see the impact they’ll make as part of our community of excellence.
Meet Derek Smith
Royal Oak Schools is excited to welcome Derek Smith as the new Director of Athletics and Activities, supporting programs at both Royal Oak High School and Royal Oak Middle School.
A proud Dondero alum (Class of ’96), Derek returns to his hometown with over 20 years of experience as an educator, coach, and athletic director, most recently serving in Utica Community Schools. He holds degrees in teaching and educational leadership from Grand Valley State University.
"I'm incredibly excited to be back home. I feel strongly that there is a tremendous opportunity to strengthen our athletics and activities programs, and to build stronger connections between our middle school and high school programs. I'm especially looking forward to uniting our athletics and activities programs with the broader Royal Oak community—and collaborating with local groups to make that vision a reality."
Derek is passionate about student involvement beyond the classroom and believes that athletics and activities help students build leadership, teamwork, and confidence. He looks forward to connecting with students, families, and the Royal Oak community.
Investing in RO Athletics
The Royal Oak Athletic Boosters are celebrating the close of their first year, marked by meaningful investments in student-athletes and athletic programs across Royal Oak High School. With the support of families, staff, and community members, the Boosters were able to enhance training spaces, elevate team pride, and improve the game-day experience for students and fans alike.
Highlights from Year One:
- Funded TeamBuildr software for strength and conditioning (used by all student-athletes)
- Installed two new speakers in the training room
- Provided thunder sticks for students at Homecoming to boost school spirit
- Allocated $500 per team to all 24 athletic teams through volunteer-supported concession shifts
- Purchased apparel for coaches to enhance team pride and professionalism
- Made concession stand upgrades to improve the fan experience
Already looking ahead, the Boosters have begun Year Two with new additions, including a pop-up tackling dummy, a tumble track and air barrel for cheer, and a new LED scorers table for the high school gym, arriving this fall. These investments reflect the power of community support and a shared commitment to student success—on and off the field.
Summer Sports Recap and Looking Ahead
By Royal Oak Schools Athletics Department
It’s been an exciting and action-packed summer for Royal Oak Schools! Both Royal Oak Middle School and Royal Oak High School were buzzing with activity as students of all ages took part in sports camps, training sessions, and enrichment opportunities. Our summer sports camps welcomed enthusiastic young athletes, with one of the highlights being the always-popular Pistons Academy. The Pistons Extreme Team wowed campers and families with a high-energy performance that brought the house down.
High school athletes across multiple sports have been hard at work. Boys and girls basketball and volleyball teams spent countless hours on the court sharpening their skills for the upcoming season. In the high school pool, swimmers stayed active, while just across the hall in the weight room, many student-athletes trained in strength, speed, and agility under the guidance of our strength and conditioning coach. New this year, our middle school summer strength and conditioning program launched with great success, helping younger athletes build a foundation for future competition.
Fall sports are already in motion, with football, boys soccer, cross country, cheerleading, and boys tennis teams preparing through the heat of summer for the exciting season ahead. On the activities side, our Drama Club hosted a weeklong acting camp that wrapped up with lively impromptu performances, including skits and solo singing acts that showcased our students’ creativity and confidence.
The official start date for fall sports is August 11. Just days later, on Friday, August 15, we’ll host our first home event of the school year—our annual Boys Soccer Club Night triple-header. All youth soccer players wearing their club jerseys will receive free admission, and concessions will be available thanks to the incredible support of our Royal Oak Athletics Booster Club.
For full schedules and updates, visit www.goroathletics.org. Come out and cheer on the Ravens—we can’t wait to see you in the stands!
Go Ravens!
Summer Work In The District
While students were away for summer break, Royal Oak Schools stayed busy preparing for the 2025–2026 school year. Across the district, teams worked hard on key projects to ensure our schools remain safe, welcoming, and ready for learning on day one.
Maintenance and custodial crews deep-cleaned classrooms, waxed floors, repaired furniture, and refreshed outdoor areas. At Royal Oak Middle School, the south parking lot was reconfigured to improve traffic flow and student drop-off. Roof repairs and HVAC upgrades were also completed at several buildings to improve comfort and energy efficiency.
Our technology team worked behind the scenes to update equipment, improve connectivity, and prepare devices for student and staff use. Software and systems were refreshed to support classroom learning, communication, and security.
Human Resources welcomed new staff members to the district. New employee orientation and summer training sessions are scheduled to ensure that all employees are prepared to support our students and contribute to our mission.
We are grateful to the staff who worked throughout the summer to ensure that Royal Oak Schools remains a place where students grow, feel safe, and succeed. Their efforts reflect our shared commitment to excellence and readiness for another strong year ahead.
STORIES AND SPOTLIGHTS
Marching Band Students Stay G-Sharp All Summer
While summer break may be a time for rest and relaxation, Royal Oak High School’s music students have been actively engaged—dedicating time and energy to developing their musical talents and leadership skills. From performing in parades to participating in prestigious camps, our Marching Ravens are embracing every opportunity to grow as musicians and as individuals.
Over the summer, the ROHS Marching Band partnered for the first time with the Clawson High School Marching Band, joining together to march in the 4th of July Parade in downtown Clawson. This special collaboration highlighted the students’ adaptability and community spirit.
The Royal Oak Marching Ravens will kick off their official season with a weeklong band camp beginning August 11. This year’s theme? Steampunk! Families and fans can look forward to their first home performance on August 28 during the football season opener.
Many student musicians also pursued individual learning opportunities throughout the summer:
- Senior Harper Payne joined the Detroit Jazz Workshop at the MSU Detroit Center, wrapping up the week with a performance at the Aretha Jazz Café. Harper was one of several ROHS students who participated.
- Senior Drum Major Avery Water, senior Sam Nelson, and junior Bobby Young attended the Michigan State University Drum Major & Drumline Camp. Senior Zachary Margenthaler and junior Drum Major Sophia Funtik joined them.
- Bobby Young was one of five students selected for the inaugural Blue Lake Advanced Percussion Ensemble, a highly focused program with technical instruction and advanced orchestral study led by a professor from Juilliard.
- Sophomore Troy Jesse attended a Jazz Workshop at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp.
- Freshman Ezra Navin was accepted into JC Heard Jazz Week at Wayne State University, an audition-only camp offering instruction from Wayne State professors. Ezra’s group will perform at the Detroit Jazz Festival over Labor Day weekend.
Sophomores Sam Humphrey and Emerson Murphy also attended Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. Sam’s family shared that this experience offered much more than music: “Not only do we get the benefit of the 12-day digital detox, we get to see him forge opportunities in independence and resilience. Spending time with peers who share his passion helps him grow musically and make lifelong friends.”
These experiences reflect our commitment to developing growth-minded students who adapt to a dynamic world. We are incredibly proud of these students for living out the values of our #ROSCommunityofExcellence all summer long.
Robotics Team Builds Momentum
Royal Oak High School’s Robotics Team has been busy this summer competing, mentoring, and expanding its reach throughout the community. In July, the team traveled to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, to take part in the Lakeshore Robotics Endurance Competition, a 24-hour off-season event that tested both their technical skills and endurance. The team had an outstanding performance, advancing to the finals and earning the title of runner-up.
Closer to home, the team hosted a multi-week Robotics Camp at their new home base at The Outpost, located in downtown Royal Oak. The camp ran three one-week sessions and was open to rising 4th–8th grade students. Led entirely by members of the high school team, the camp provided hands-on learning in robot design and coding. It also gave younger students a chance to explore STEM in a fun and welcoming environment, reinforcing the district’s mission to foster growth-minded learners through real-world opportunities.
Next, the team will head to Skyline High School in Ann Arbor on August 2 for another off-season competition, continuing to sharpen their skills and represent Royal Oak with pride.
Students Travel Abroad
This summer, students from Royal Oak High School had the incredible opportunity to participate in the German American Partnership Program (GAPP), led by ROHS teacher Erica Brehmer. The group departed on June 24 and returned on July 14, spending two enriching weeks in Radolfzell, Germany, attending school with the same students who visited Royal Oak last October as part of the exchange program.
While in Germany, students explored local culture, toured a historic castle in Meersburg, and challenged themselves on a high ropes climbing course near Mainau. Their visit even caught the attention of the local press—a German newspaper, the Radolfzell, interviewed our students and asked them what they noticed about Germany! [Link to article.]
The experience didn’t stop there. Students continued their journey with a four-night stay in Paris, where they explored iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Versailles, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay. They cruised the Seine, visited the Catacombs, rode the metro like locals, and even dined at two Michelin-starred restaurants.
Programs like GAPP offer students an unforgettable cultural and educational experience, fostering global awareness, independence, and lifelong memories. We're proud to support meaningful opportunities like this that extend learning beyond the classroom—and across borders.
Teacher Travels, Builds Connections
This July, Royal Oak High School's own Mike Conrad took part in two exciting professional learning experiences with PBS News Student Reporting Labs, further deepening his commitment to student storytelling and media production. The first stop was Charlotte, North Carolina, where Mr. Conrad led a hands-on workshop at the Best Buy Teen Tech Center. There, he worked with a dynamic group of students, teaching the fundamentals of podcasting—from interviewing techniques to audio production. The goal? Helping young people find and amplify their voices through storytelling that matters.
Following the workshop, Mr. Conrad traveled to Washington, D.C., for a professional development weekend at PBS News Headquarters at WETA. More than 40 educators from across the country came together to sharpen their production and storytelling skills, learning directly from PBS News producers. These new techniques and insights will soon make their way back to Royal Oak High School, enriching student media experiences in the classroom.
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Join us for our second annual Family Welcome Back Night on Thursday, August 28—just before the first home Ravens football game of the season!
This event is a great way to explore school groups, student clubs, and local organizations that support Royal Oak families throughout the year. Whether you're looking into student activities, exploring family resources, or hoping to get more involved, there’s something for everyone—including hands-on activities, a chance to try yoga, watch a karate demonstration, and basketball with our district mascots, plus a special appearance by Hooper from the Detroit Pistons! There will be pizza, hot dogs, Ray’s Ice Cream, photo ops, and more. Then, head over to the stadium to cheer on the Ravens and celebrate the start of another incredible school year together.
MEET THE SUPER
We invite you to meet Dr. John Tafelski, the new superintendent of Royal Oak Schools. In the months ahead, Dr. Tafelski will host several meet-and-greet events throughout the district, allowing families, staff, and community members to get to know him.
This is a chance to say hello, share your thoughts, and learn more about his goals for Royal Oak Schools as we continue to build a strong, inclusive, and student-first environment together.
On Thursday, August 7, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, stop by The Office Coffee Shop in downtown Royal Oak. Pull up a chair and enjoy a beverage while getting to know our new superintendent.
On Thursday, September 11, join Dr. Tafelski before the Board of Education meeting for an afternoon break and conversation. We’ll be gathering from 5:30 to 6:25 p.m. to discuss back-to-school updates and other timely topics.
On Wednesday, October 2, start your morning with a casual meet-up from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. at The Office Coffee Shop in downtown Royal Oak.
Watch for more details on our website and social media! We hope to see you at one—or all—of these community conversations.
SAVE THE DATE
Soup With The Super
Join us for the next Soup with the Super on September 24 at 11:30 a.m. at the Royal Oak Senior Center. Dr. John Tafelski, the new Superintendent of Royal Oak Schools, hosts this special event.
Come meet Dr. Tafelski, along with Royal Oak Schools Director of Athletics and Activities, Derek Smith, and connect with members of the Royal Oak Schools administrative team. Enjoy conversations with students from Royal Oak High School. It’s a wonderful opportunity to put faces to names and learn more about what’s happening in our schools.
Mark your calendar and join us for a warm meal, great company, and meaningful conversation.
State of the Schools
Royal Oak Schools invites families, staff, and community members to attend the State of the Schools event on Tuesday, September 30, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Administrative Offices, located at 800 DeVillen in Royal Oak, in the board room.
Hosted by Superintendent Tafelski, the evening will feature updates on district priorities, highlights from the start of the school year, and a look ahead at key initiatives and goals that will shape our future.
This event is an opportunity to hear directly from district leadership, ask questions, and learn more about how we’re working to create a student-first, inclusive, and growth-minded environment in line with our vision of a community of excellence. All are welcome. We hope to see you there.
CONTINUING YOUR EDUCATION
Does someone you know need to learn English or complete their high school credentials? Royal Oak Schools Continuing Education can help.
The program offers varying levels of classes for non-native speakers and individualized plans for completing high school credentials—no residency in Royal Oak is required. Registration is open now, and appointments can be scheduled online. As Adult Education Coordinator, Joy Zug shared during graduation, “Everyone in the continuing education groups had doubts at one time or another about whether or not they would be sitting here tonight. They all have different stories but are here for the same reason.”
Online Registration opens August 1, 2025, and placement tests begin August 13, 2025. Start by making an appointment for the program that interests you. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit ccec.royaloakschools.org.
DATES FOR AUGUST
August - National Back To School Month
August 4 - Annual Registration Opens
August 7 - Community Conversation at The Office
August 13 - 7th & 8th Grade Schedule Pickup
August 14 - Bulldog Bound at ROMS
August 14 - Board of Education Meeting
August 15 - Elementary School Class Information Available
August 18 - High School Class Information Available
August 25 - First Day Of School
August 28 - Family Welcome Back Night
August 29 - No School
September 1 - No School/Labor Day
JOB OPENINGS
We’d love for you to join our team!
Explore current opportunities and apply for most positions with Royal Oak Schools by visiting: https://bit.ly/3rO26d1workforros. Want to learn more about working with us? Visit our Human Resources webpage to explore career opportunities, benefits, and what it means to be part of the Royal Oak Schools team.
- Substitute teachers: EDUStaff is our partner for substitute teachers. Please apply through their website at: edustaff.org.
- Paraprofessionals: We need you! A paraprofessional collaborates with a team of teachers to support qualified students in achieving academic success 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 its transportation department. A minimum of 20 hours is guaranteed, with additional options available. To apply, contact Cheri Henrion at Durham at Chenrion@durhamschoolsservices.com.
- Instructional and administrative positions: check the Oakland Schools Consortium portal at bit.ly/3rO26d1workforros.
If you have any further questions, please contact Beth Caverly at the District Offices: elizabeth.caverly@royaloakschools.org or (248) 435-8400, extension 1210.
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.
Copyright 2025
Credits:
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