The school year in Hamtramck has kicked off with exciting changes, and district leaders are renewing their calls for increased community participation and a stronger partnership between parents and the schools.
In a message to parents, Hamtramck Public Schools Interim Superintendent Jim Larson-Shidler said the beginning of the school year means new opportunities.
He highlighted achievements over the summer, including improving the heating and cooling system and securing an $11 million infrastructure grant from the state.
“This summer, we completed the final phase of our district-wide HVAC improvements at Hamtramck High School,” Larson-Shidler said in his statement.
“All HPS buildings now have new heating and cooling mechanical equipment, creating more comfortable and productive learning environments for our students and staff.
The interim superintendent added that the district will continue to focus on programs to boost the academic performance and wellness of students, including the Michigan Integrated Continuous Improvement Process (MICIP) Planning.
“As we move forward, we will carefully examine student and district data to help us make informed and responsible decisions. Just as importantly, your participation in this work is needed, we will listen to the voices of our students, families, staff, and community,” Larson-Shidler said.
“Your voice matters, and your partnership matters.”
He noted that the schools will implement an updated Emergency Operations Plan and welcome two school resource officers in partnership with the city of Hamtramck.
The schools will also start enforcing the statewide student cellphone law, which requires keeping devices away during class with exceptions for emergencies and academic use.
The law, which was signed by Governor Grechen Whitmer in February, aims “to help students focus more on their schoolwork and encourage healthier habits with screen time and social media use”.
It was approved with strong bipartisan support.
Larson-Shidler welcomed the passage of the Hamtramck Recreation Millage, which was approved with 57 percent of the votes in August, expressing gratitude for staff and union and union partners that supported it.
“The renewal represents an important investment in our parks, recreation programs, children, families, and community. It is another great example of what we can accomplish when we work together,” he said.
The interim superintendent also had a message for students: “Believe in yourself, work hard, try new things, and never be afraid to ask for help.”
And he thanked parents for believing in the district.
“Together, we can create schools where every student is known, valued, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. Together, we can make great things happen,” Larson-Shidler said.
“And together, we will continue building a district that makes Hamtramck Public Schools the first and only choice for families.”
