JULY 2025
In This Issue
- From The Superintendent
- Curriculum Insights
- Spring Sports Wrap
- Staff Excellence
- Churchill Graduation
- Around The District
- Your Voice Matters
- Back To School
- Next Year's School Calendar
- Social Media
- July Calendar
- Job Postings In The District
NEW DISTRICT LEADERSHIP
Dear Royal Oak Schools Community,
It is with genuine excitement and deep gratitude that I write to you for the first time as Superintendent of Royal Oak Schools. Education has been woven into my life since childhood—both of my parents were public-school teachers, and I began my own career in 2003 as a classroom teacher and coach in Dearborn Heights. That journey took me from Assistant Principal to Principal at Crestwood High School, and for the past eight years I have served as Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction in Allen Park Public Schools.
Those roles taught me two enduring lessons: schools thrive when they are the heart of their community, and every student deserves challenging, joyful learning that prepares them for an ever-changing world. Royal Oak’s reputation as “A Community of Excellence” is more than a motto, it is visible in our civic pride, high-quality programs, and steadfast support for students. I am honored to build on that legacy and to follow Superintendent Mary Beth Fitzpatrick’s eight years of dedicated service.
During my first 100 days, I will be present to meet staff and students, visit classrooms, and talk with families. Your stories, hopes, and concerns will shape the priorities we set together.
Royal Oak already offers powerful academics, arts, athletics, and student-led service. My goal is to deepen those strengths by working to advance instruction, innovate with purpose, and ensure whole-child wellness through our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) process.
I invite you to read our District Dispatch, follow the district on social media, and stop me in the hallway or at an event to say hello!
Together, we will write the next chapter of excellence in Royal Oak Schools, ensuring every student is prepared to thrive, contribute, and lead. Thank you for the warm welcome; I look forward to partnering with you in the months and years ahead.
-Dr. John Tafelski, Superintendent, Royal Oak Schools
MEASURING GROWTH, GUIDING SUCCESS
Each spring, Royal Oak Schools participates in Michigan’s statewide assessment program to help measure student learning, growth, and readiness. These assessments provide valuable insight that allows our educators to refine instruction, plan supports, and continue fostering an inclusive, student-first learning environment.
Students in grades K-11 participate in various assessments, including the M-STEP, PSAT, SAT, ACT WorkKeys, WIDA for English language learners, and Early Literacy and Mathematics Benchmark Assessments for our youngest learners. These tools help us monitor academic progress and ensure that every student is prepared to succeed in a dynamic world.
Most assessments are now completed online, offering flexibility and advanced tools that provide a more personalized testing experience. The results allow Royal Oak Schools to identify learning strengths and gaps, tailor instruction, and partner with families to support student growth.
Results from this year’s assessments will help guide our next steps as we continue to uphold our mission of creating a safe, supportive, and growth-minded environment for all students.
LET'S HEAR IT FOR THOSE SPRING SLUGGERS AND MORE
As the school year wound down, our student-athletes wrapped up an exciting spring season filled with determination, teamwork, and growth. From the track to the tennis courts, and the baseball diamonds to the soccer fields, Royal Oak Schools students demonstrated perseverance, sportsmanship, and pride in representing our community of excellence. This season not only brought personal bests and team accomplishments but also reflected the values of commitment, resilience, and collaboration.
BOYS LACROSSE
The Boys Lacrosse team finished the season with a 10-9 overall record and placed third in the OAA White with a 4-2 record. Several student-athletes earned recognition for their achievements on and off the field. Luke Desnoyer, Collin Richardson, Brady Taylor, and Jack Thornton received Academic All-State honors. Theodore “Bear” Gardner, Langdon Hurst, Blaze Jeffries, and Sam Scherphorn earned Honorable Mention All-State and All-Region. Additionally, Ethan Couzens, Jacob Gaynier, and Jack Thornton were named to the OAA White All-League team.
GIRLS LACROSSE
The Girls Lacrosse team showed perseverance and growth throughout the season, finishing seventh in the OAA White. Lauren Jensen and Emilee Saunders earned OAA All-League honors, while Jacqueline Hipp received an Honorable Mention. Lauren Jensen was also named team MVP for her leadership and impact on the field. Lily Harris was recognized as Most Improved Player, and Kalli Roelofs received the ROB Sportsmanship Award for her dedication and positive spirit.
GIRLS SOCCER
The Girls Soccer team finished the season with a 7-10-3 record and made an exciting run to the District Final, highlighted by a thrilling shootout win over Seaholm in the semifinal. Mary Coburn, Kayla Faulkner, Jordan Hills, and Alexis Zimny earned OAA White All-League honors. Nine players were named All-District, including Eva Armbruster, Allie Hills, Gracie Jagodzinski, Reagan Mason, Shea Mojtahedi, and Bella Schneider, along with Coburn, Faulkner, Hills, and Zimny. Kayla Faulkner and Jordan Hills also received All-Region recognition for their outstanding play.
GIRLS TENNIS
The Girls Tennis team had an incredible season, finishing with an 11-2-2 record and going undefeated in league play (6-0) to claim their third straight OAA league championship. This marks seven consecutive winning seasons and five straight Royal Oak City Championships. The team placed third at Regionals, with Ava Weiss qualifying for the state tournament and earning MVP honors. Other award winners included Ana Ladzinski (Most Dedicated), Chloe Edson (Most Improved), Simone Carcamo (Rookie of the Year), and Hannah Saunders (Sportsmanship Award), who also broke the school record for most career doubles victories (44). Captains for 2025 will be Audrey Bruner and Hannah Saunders. The team earned Academic All-State for the ninth straight year, with seniors Audrey Bruner, Hannah Saunders, and Ava Weiss recognized individually. Head Coach Kevin Friesen was named Regional Coach of the Year for the second year in a row and celebrated an impressive milestone—425 career coaching victories.
BOYS TRACK AND FIELD
The Boys Track & Field team had a strong season, finishing third in the OAA White with a 3-2 record. Several athletes earned All-League honors, including Ben Colburn (discus, shot put), Nathan Guthrie (400m), Javien Johnson (300 hurdles), Aaron Rice (high jump), and Nolan Till (3200m). Multiple athletes achieved All-Region and All-County recognition, highlighting a season of impressive performances. Javien Johnson qualified for the state meet in the 300m hurdles. The team also broke three school records: Ben Colburn in discus (143’), Javien Johnson in the 300m hurdles (40.35), and the 4x200m relay team of Joseph Mayo, Javien Johnson, Julien Burns, and Nathan Guthrie (1:31.42).
GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD
The Girls Track & Field team had an outstanding season, finishing second in the OAA White with a 4-1 record, narrowly missing the league title in a close meet against Troy. They made history with a fifth-place finish at the Oakland County Meet, the highest finish in the program's history, and placed fifth at the MHSAA Region 8-1 meet. The team celebrated 14 All-OAA and 14 All-Region athletes, along with six All-County honorees, including county champions Jada Ewell (discus) and Brooklyn Cotton (100m hurdles). They broke six school records this season and had an impressive 39 Academic Scholar Athletes, with 27 earning All-OAA Scholar recognition. Jada Ewell also achieved MHSAA Division 1 All-State honors, placing fifth in discus.
BASEBALL
The Varsity Baseball team finished the season with an 18-18 overall record and an impressive 13-2 record in the OAA Blue, earning second place in the league. Several players were recognized for their outstanding performances, with Silas Burbridge, Alex Kissling, Jack Groya, and Josh Adler earning All-League honors. Burbridge, Groya, and Johnny Friedrich were named All-District, while Ethan Blay and Nick Maeso earned All-Region Academic honors for their achievements in the classroom.
SOFTBALL
The Varsity Softball team had a standout season, finishing with a 21-15-1 record and capturing the District Championship. Miya O’Branovic and Mackenzee Childress earned OAA White All-League honors, with five players—Childress, Alice Mahar, Allie Blaesing, Alyssa Rozycki, and Annabelle Sorensen—earning All-District recognition. The team shattered several school records, including RBIs (Alice Mahar – 49), runs scored (Miya O’Branovic – 49), and multiple pitching records by Mackenzee Childress: innings pitched (144.1), strikeouts (150), and wins (14). The team also excelled academically, earning Academic All-State, with individual honors for Childress, O’Branovic, and Blaesing.
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
Comms Awards
We are proud to share that our Royal Oak Schools Communications team has been nationally recognized for excellence, earning five awards from the 2025 National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) and an additional honor from Social School 4 EDU. We congratulate Communications Specialist, Amy Murphy, and Multimedia Specialist, Jaret Grisamer on these accomplishments. These accolades underscore the team's dedication to crafting clear, creative, and community-centered storytelling that aligns with the district's mission of fostering a safe, inclusive, and student-centered environment. Notable recognitions include an Award of Excellence for the "Join the Composting Movement" video, Awards of Merit for the "Oakland Through the Ages" video and the "Insight Into Learning" series, and Honorable Mentions for the "Opt-In for Text" campaign and "The District Dispatch" newsletter. Additionally, Communications Specialist Amy Murphy received a national award for her innovative use of LinkedIn to enhance school storytelling and community engagement.
Innovative Leadership
Kristin Meldrum, principal of Royal Oak Middle School (ROMS), serves as the East Region Middle Level Representative on the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) Board of Directors. In this role, she contributes her extensive experience in middle-level education to support MASSP's mission of fostering strong leadership across Michigan schools.
Since joining ROMS in 2022, Ms. Meldrum has been instrumental in implementing initiatives that promote a safe, inclusive, and student-centered environment. Her leadership has led to the adoption of a cell phone-free policy, the expansion of recess and play opportunities, and a deepened commitment to the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. These efforts align with Royal Oak Schools mission to develop growth-minded students capable of adapting to a dynamic world.
As a MASSP board member, Ms. Meldrum continues to champion initiatives that enhance educational leadership and student success across the state. She was recently asked to write an article called "Celebrating All the Small Moments: How to Make Middle School Memorable & Build a Positive Working Culture" for the MASSP Newsletter.
HONORING THE CHURCHILL CLASS OF 2025
On June 5, 2025, the Royal Oak Schools community celebrated the commencement of the Churchill Community High School and Churchill Continuing Education Classes of 2025. Twenty-eight graduates were honored for their resilience and commitment to their educational goals. Churchill Community Education Supervisor Karen Powell highlighted the unique journeys of each graduate and the strong bonds formed throughout their time at Churchill. Michigan Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein delivered an inspiring keynote address, emphasizing perseverance and self-belief. The ceremony also recognized scholarship recipients: Claire P. received the Royal Oak Education Association Scholarship, while Ari M. and Burt B. were awarded the Churchill Alumni Scholarship. The event underscored Churchill's supportive and inclusive environment, celebrating the achievements of its graduates as they embark on their next chapters.
AROUND THE DISTRICT
SUMMER SCHOOL IS UNDERWAY
First-grade students are spending part of their summer building essential reading and writing skills through the Royal Oak Schools Summer School Program. Designed to support continued academic growth, the program runs Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Students participate in engaging, hands-on literacy activities that help strengthen their reading and writing while having fun.
Beyond academics, the program offers students a valuable opportunity to socialize and make new friends from across the district. This experience not only helps students stay connected but also supports the district’s mission to foster an inclusive, diverse, and student-first environment.
SPARKING STEM EXCITEMENT
Before the school year ended, students and staff at Addams and Upton Elementary Schools had the opportunity to participate in a hands-on STEM event held in each school’s Media Center during the first week of June.
The event showcased an exciting collection of new STEM materials designed to enhance student learning through creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. The response from both students and staff was overwhelmingly positive.
It was wonderful to witness the genuine excitement as students explored robotics kits, engineering challenges, and coding tools. Staff were equally energized, brainstorming ways these resources could be integrated into classroom instruction and Media Center activities in the coming school year.
WALKING TOGETHER FOR A SAFER COMMUNITY
Before the school year came to a close, students, families, and staff across Royal Oak Schools participated in several walk-to-school events in partnership with the City of Royal Oak’s Safe Routes to School initiative.
These events celebrated the importance of safe, healthy, and active transportation while bringing attention to the need for safer walking and biking routes throughout our community. Students from multiple schools proudly walked to campus alongside friends, families, teachers, and community partners.
The energy was high as crosswalks were filled with smiling faces, neighbors connected, and families started their day together in a meaningful way. Each event helped foster not only healthy habits but also a stronger sense of community and a shared commitment to safety. Our collaboration with the City of Royal Oak continues to prioritize student safety and well-being both in and out of the classroom.
ROYAL OAK MIDDLE SCHOOL GRADUATION
Royal Oak Middle School recently celebrated a significant milestone for the eighth-grade Class of 2025, as students marked the end of their middle school journey and prepared to take the next step toward high school. The graduation ceremony was filled with pride, joy, and reflection as families, staff, and students gathered to honor the hard work and achievements of this incredible group of learners. Students were recognized not only for their academic growth but also for their resilience, leadership, and the positive contributions they’ve made to the ROMS community.
Throughout their time at ROMS, these students have embraced challenges, built lasting friendships, and developed skills that will serve them well as they transition to Royal Oak High School in the fall. Congratulations to the Royal Oak Middle School Class of 2025! We are proud of all you have accomplished and can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll achieve in high school and beyond.
YOUR VOICE MATTERS
MDE TOY NOMINATIONS
The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is now accepting nominations for the 2026-27 Michigan Teacher of the Year. Students, parents, staff, and community members are encouraged to nominate outstanding teachers using the online form, which will be open through Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and recognize educators who make a lasting impact. More details and the nomination form are available on the Michigan Teacher of the Year webpage.
COMMS SURVEY THIS FALL
Royal Oak Schools will soon launch a Communications Survey for all stakeholders. This brief survey is designed to gather feedback on how you receive district information, the types of communications you find most helpful, and when you prefer to receive them. You’ll also have the chance to share your thoughts on our current practices, including our websites, social media, and more. Your input is valuable in helping us improve how we connect with our families, staff, and community. Watch for the survey link coming soon!
SAVE THE DATE
Annual Back To School Registration Opens August 4, 2025
Royal Oak Schools annual registration for the 2025-2026 school year opens August 4 and is completed entirely online. Families can visit www.royaloakschools.org/enrollment to begin the enrollment process. Once all required forms are submitted and documents are uploaded, our enrollment team will process your application and send a confirmation email.
If you need assistance with the process, please contact Theresa Baughman to schedule an appointment. To find documentation and other requirements needed, use this link.
Kindergarten Families:
Michigan law requires dental, hearing, and vision screenings prior to starting Kindergarten. Free screenings are available through the Oakland County Health Division. Call 248-424-7070 to schedule.
Family Welcome Back Night
We invite our families to the second annual Family Welcome Back Night on Thursday, August 28, before the first home Ravens football game of the season!
Join us for an evening of connection, celebration, and community. Meet school groups, clubs, and community organizations that support our students and families throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for activities, resources, or ways to get involved, this event is the perfect way to kick off the school year.
Enjoy FREE food, fun activities, and then stay to cheer on the Ravens!
More details to come—mark your calendar!
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, connect with members of the Royal Oak Schools administrative team, and enjoy conversations with students. 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 about how Royal Oak Schools continues to foster an inclusive, diverse, safe, and student-first environment. More details to come!
SCHOOL CALENDAR
In case you missed it, the Royal Oak Schools calendar for the 2025–2026 school year has been released.
The calendar includes key dates such as the first and last days of school, holiday breaks, and professional development days. Please note that the first day of school is August 25.
View the calendar here: [2025–26 ROS Calendar]
Follow us on:
- Instagram @roschools
- Facebook @RoyalOakSchools
- LinkedIn @Royal-Oak
- TikTok @royal.oak.schools
- X @RoyalOakSchools
- YouTube Royal Oak Schools
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE ON FACEBOOK
DATES FOR JULY
July - National Make A Difference To Children Month
July 3 - International Drop a Rock Day
July 4 - Independence Day
July 10 - Board of Education Meeting
July 25 - System Administrator Appreciation Day
July 27 - National Parents Day
July 30 - International Day of Friendship
JOB OPENINGS
We would love to have you join our team. To apply for most jobs with Royal Oak Schools, visit https://bit.ly/3rO26d1workforros.
Check out our Human Resources webpage using this link to learn more about working with us.
Substitute teachers: EDUStaff is our partner for substitute teachers. Please apply through their website at: edustaff.org.
Paraprofessionals - we need you! 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 its transportation department. A minimum of 20 hours is guaranteed, with options for more. 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. 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.
Copyright 2025
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