April 14, 2025
During the Detroit Public School Community District (DPSCD) Regular Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, April 8, the Board acknowledged Exceptional Student Education (ESE) challenges and new initiatives, recognized several students and staff for the pursuit of excellence, and approved several charter school reauthorizations and contracts for services. The full agenda can be reviewed on the Board of Education page.
The Board highlighted the personal curriculum program, which Board President Bishop Corletta J. Vaughn called a “win for Exceptional Student Education”. This program allows modifications to specific Michigan merit graduation requirements based on students’ individual needs and eligibility.
The monthly Finance Report acknowledged challenges in providing quality ESE services to students when current program locations do not provide continuity for students. These same documents outlined a proposal to realign the District’s program placement to tackle these challenges and improve ESE services.
Board of Education Youth Ambassadors Naomi Babatunde and Mi’Kah West said attendance is improving across District high schools, possibly due to the Attendance Matters incentives and student-led events that encourage participation. The ambassadors also discussed a new initiative aimed at improving high schools’ libraries and media centers.
Board Recognitions
East English Village student Jamir Gordon was recognized for winning the 2025 Michigan State Junior Chess Championship.
District employees Anika McEvans and Alisa Ruffin both received 2025 Skillman Visionary awards. As a student athletics trailblazer, McEvans’ leadership and advocacy has created more inclusive and empowering opportunities for District student athletes. As a teacher leader, Ruffin’s leadership and curriculum design is transforming the way the District grows and supports leaders in education.
Board Approves Charter School Reauthorizations and Contracts for Services
The Board approved contract reauthorizations for the following established alternative charter schools: Capstone Academy, Pathways Academy, and SER YouthBuild Learning Academy. Reauthorizations were approved for the following established K-12 schools: Rutherford Winans Academy, Barack Obama Leadership Academy, and David Ellis Academy.
Also approved were several contracts with vendors for food service, software platforms, interactive classroom technology, security, bleacher repair, and Facility Master Plan work.
