WBSD Weekly Update
Happy 4th of July, WB! Enjoy a safe and happy holiday weekend! The District will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of the holiday.
West Bloomfield School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Thomas DeGrand as the district’s new Athletic Director, effective July 1, 2026.
After several rounds of interviews, performance-based assessments, and stakeholder engagement opportunities, DeGrand emerged as an exceptional candidate to lead the district's athletic programs.
A long-standing member of the West Bloomfield educational community, he currently serves as an Educational Technology teacher at West Bloomfield Middle School and Head Coach of the West Bloomfield Middle School Wrestling Program.
Throughout more than two decades with the district, DeGrand has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to student growth, leadership development, and program excellence. He has served in numerous teacher leadership roles, participated on district and building improvement teams, contributed to school improvement initiatives, and supported a wide range of district programs. His leadership experience also includes directing community education programs, supervising summer camp operations, mentoring colleagues, and serving on multiple interview and district leadership teams.
As head wrestling coach, DeGrand has built one of the district's most successful middle school athletic programs by increasing student participation, fostering a positive team culture, and leading the Lakers to county championship success. He also founded and continues to lead the West Bloomfield Wrestling Club, creating a strong developmental pathway for student-athletes while expanding athletic opportunities for youth throughout the community. His coaching experience also includes youth baseball and flag football, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on athletic program development and student engagement.
DeGrand holds an Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from Oakland University, a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Teaching from Michigan State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Michigan State University. He was also a member of the MSU wrestling team from 1998-2000.
Kids Connect and Preschool before and after care registration opens on July 15th https://wbsdec.arux.app/
Please note that this link will replace our current Eleyo registration system.
WBSD programs that will be switching from Eleyo to Arux:
WBSD Summer Camp
Kids Connect (School age before and after care)Good News: Everything Transfers Automatically
3 year old Preschool
Preschool before and aftercare
Community and enrichment programs
Your account data - All of your information will transfer automatically
Login credentials - Your current username and password still work
Existing enrollments - All current and upcoming registrations transfer
Payment methods - Saved cards and autopay settings carry over
Due to the switch in registration software, Kids Connect and Preschool before and after care registration will open on July 15th.
On August 4, 2026, voters in Oakland County will consider a Regional Enhancement Millage to bolster all public school districts and eligible public school academies across the county.
44% of students in Michigan already receive enhancement millage funding
If approved, funds would be distributed to districts based on student enrollment. West Bloomfield School District would focus on:
Recruiting and retaining high-quality staff
Maintaining appropriate staff-to-student ratios
Maintaining and strengthening educational programs
RESOURCES & FAST FACTS:
Oakland Enhancement Millage Website
Now through August 10, students are encouraged to strengthen their math, reading, and social studies skills by completing at least two IXL skills each week. Participants can earn a spot on the leaderboard and compete for prizes while keeping their learning sharp all summer long.
IXL Login:
https://www.ixl.com/signin/wbloomfieldsd
Explore the nationally recognized Hot Works Fine Art Shows this summer! The Orchard Lake Fine Art Show on July 25–26. Enjoy original, handcrafted artwork, and don't miss the Call for Youth Artists, where students can showcase their work and compete for $250 in awards. You still have time to submit artwork!
Monday, July 20th
8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
ACS Building - 5810 Commerce Rd. West Bloomfield
- 3 and 4 year old preschool available
- High Quality Curriculum & Play-Based Learning
- Certified Early Childhood Teachers
- Strong Family & Community Connections
WBMS Summer Cheer Clinic is open to rising 7th and 8th grade WBMS students. This clinic will take place July 27th and July 28th from noon-4 p.m. at WBMS. Participants will learn cheers, chants, jumps, and dances while building confidence, teamwork, and school spirit. No experience is needed and all skill levels are welcome! Please note that this is not a drop-in event, as skills and routines will build throughout the clinic. Students should come ready to be active and bring plenty of water and a snack each day.
- Kitchen Kidz 1 - July 13-17 (WBHS), Info Here
- Sunset Theatre Camp - July 13-17 (Scotch), Info Here
- Camp Invention - July 20-24 (Scotch), Info Here & Scholarships
- Gregory Kelser's Basketball Camp - July 20-24 (WBHS), Info Here
- Mad Science Brixology - August 3-7 (Scotch), Info Here
- Science In Motion - August 3-7 (Scotch), Info Here
- Makos Pups Baseball Camp, Ages 5-10, Info Here
- Resources for Special Services Camps, Info Here
- Other Camps around Oakland County, Info Here
NEW CAMP!
The Media Maker Bootcamp gives students in grades 5–8 the chance to explore the exciting world of media production through hands-on learning and real-world storytelling. From filming and editing to anchoring and directing, campers will create their own news stories and productions using professional equipment alongside the experienced Laker Update crew at WBHS.
Monday, August 3 through Friday, August 14
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
WBHS
Register now: https://qrco.de/bgieBP
