"The graduating class of 2013 represented a significant time in our district, the end of an era. On May 11, 2013, both Andover and Lahser were open to the public, giving alumni, community members, and current families and staff a chance to say goodbye to these two historic pillars. I'd like to thank everyone who came out, making it a very memorable day. Our goal in this transition process has always been to honor the past and celebrate the future. Thank you for helping us pay tribute to the past and we appreciate all of the kind words of encouragement as we look toward the next chapter in our district, Bloomfield Hills High School.
In preparing for Bloomfield Hills High School, our district staff from both buildings met on a regular basis to share in professional development experiences and discuss the multitude of questions and concerns. Charlie Hollerith and Rob Durecka's leadership helped guide staff through this challenging process. District teams have spent countless hours debating and deciding on everything from transportation logistics, scheduling, melding two traditions, and hiring decisions, to flooring tile colors, furniture choices and athletic apparel. No stone has been unturned in these meetings and we look forward to a smooth and healthy transition for students and our entire team.
The significance of all of this work has not been lost on our staff and the definitions of "project based learning" and "collaboration" can be seen in just about every classroom of the district, on any given day. When I walk through our buildings and hear students deeply engaged in their work, I know that we have something special happening here. Though the high school project seems to garner the most attention at this time, this work that is being done to prepare for the high school is a pre-K – 12th grade experience and is already fundamentally shifting the way we teach and learn in Bloomfield.
Over the summer months, thanks to support from tax payers, many district facilities received significant upgrades and now all three middle schools house a Gateway Space. Gateway Spaces are large, open, flexible learning environments that support a wide range of technology and activities. These areas will help bring the open learning concept to our middle schools, assisting students in their transition to the high school in 9th grade.
Please continue to visit this section of our website to learn about the project timeline, read updates, view photos and video, and more. If you have a question for us, please consider using the green "Contact Us" link at the very top of the screen, above the search bar.
Thank you for your continued support during this transition."
-Sincerely, Dr. Rob Glass, Superintendent