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Board of Education Meeting Highlights for February

Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti and the Board of Education reported that several key reform metrics continued to move in the right direction for SY 2022-23 during the Regular Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at Western International High School.  

Superintendent’s Report

As part of Dr. Vitti’s monthly strategic Blueprint 2023 report to the community, he said student average daily attendance continued to trend upward toward pre-pandemic levels. In addition, Dr. Vitti said current data showed that chronic absenteeism, missing at least  10% of school days, continued to go down, hovering near pre-pandemic levels as well.  

“I’ve been meeting with principals over the last couple of days and weeks,” said Dr. Vitti. “Whether we are looking at attendance, chronic absenteeism, or academic data, I continue to be proud. We are getting back to the reform work and a renewed focus on student achievement.” He also hailed year over year growth in mathematics and literacy and noted the results of a recent mid-year survey, where the majority of student respondents said they felt loved, challenged and prepared while attending DPSCD schools this year.  

Dr. Vitti also touted the importance of DPSCD’s health hubs. He cited data that proves having nurses in schools has helped increase vaccination and immunization rates and supports daily attendance and overall enrollment.  

Board Updates:  

On behalf of the entire Board of Education, President Angelique Peterson-Mayberry shared the results of an appointment process undertaken by the Board to fill a vacancy on the Detroit Public Library Commission. Starting late last year, a sub-committee, led by Board Member Bishop Corletta Vaughn, carefully assessed candidate submissions, and conducted interviews. After a thorough review, the sub-committee recommended the appointment of Chaundra Frierson-Haynes to the vacancy, which the full Board unanimously approved.  

President Peterson-Mayberry also reminded the community that the  February Finance Committee meeting will be held on Friday, March 3, 2023, from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. on the 12th floor of the Fisher Building.