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    August 6, 2024

     

    Good Morning, Catherine C. Blackwell Institute Family, I hope that all is well!

     

    Welcome to the 2024-25 school year! I am extremely proud to lead the Catherine C. Blackwell Institute community. The life and legacy of Mrs. Catherine C. Blackwell is deeply rooted in the rich cultural traditions and knowledge found in east and west Africa, a love for children and learning, and a commitment to excellence. Her work has impacted lives across the world and has left an indelible mark across Detroit. It is with this level of commitment that we begin the 2024-2025 school year.

     

    Although we are a phase-out school, EXCELLENT things are happening! 

    As we enter this new year, I want to share our motto for this year.

     

    “We are committed to being GREAT on Purpose”

    “Where we do BLACK (Excellence) WELL”

     

     

    School Goals:

     

    1. Increase proficiency rates (MSTEP) by 15%
    2. Increase student growth (iReady) by 15%
    3. Increase Catherine C. Blackwell Community perception data (Love, Challenged, Prepared and Family Surveys) by 15%
    4. Increase effectiveness of PBIS by 10%
    5. Decrease chronic absenteeism by 15%
    6. Decrease suspensions by 15%
    7. Increase in family and community partnership and engagement by 10%

     

    Through students receiving excellent instruction, in a climate that feels like family and a culture of excellence, we will cultivate Detroit’s next groups of leaders! Imagine how strong the community will be when this promoting Class of 2025 discovers the cure for cancer or when the 3rd graders exceed the Read by Grade 3 expectations.  This will be no easy feat, but the result will continue our leader's rich legacy of excellence.

     

     

    PLEASE STAY:

     

    STAY CONNECTED

    • School Updates and Contact Information: Catherine C. Blackwell District Page
    • Robo Calls and Emails: Update your contact information with the Main Office
    • Facebook: @CatherineBlackwellDPSCD
    • Twitter: @CBlackwellDPSCD
    • Instagram: @CBlackwellDPSCD
    • TikTok: @Catblackins
    • POWERSCHOOL Student Portal: You can see student grades, attendance, and teacher communication
    • Sign up to volunteer

     

    STAY SUPPORTIVE

    • Ensure that your students are in school every day, ALL DAY!
    • Attend Family Engagement Sessions
    • Hold your students accountable by making sure that they are completing assignments, demonstrating behavior expectations, and being responsible in the Catherine C. Blackwell Institute Community

     

     

    STAY COMMUNITY

    • Understand that everyone is doing their best-Be Kind
    • Be committed to wellness. We will continue to do wellness call to simply ask, “Are you Ok?’
    •  Staff and students teaching and learning in a safe and uninterrupted environment is my primary focus. All guests will continue to be supported at the door, unless you have a scheduled appointment.
    • Celebrate and acknowledge when something amazing happens within our school community.
    • Volunteer Opportunities
      • Morning Entry
      • Lunch and Recess Support
      • Field Trips
      • Dismissal Support

     

     

    I look forward to an amazing school year and all that will come along with this journey. As always, reach out if you have questions or concerns and I thank you for your support and prayers as I lead this amazing community.

     

     

    Principal Stephanie R. Gaines, M.Ed.

    “I am LEADING Detroit’s Next Legends”

    Stephanie.gaines@detroitk12.org

    313-917-3962