WBSD Weekly Update

Dear West Bloomfield School District Community,

As we begin the month of February, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Black History Month and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our schools.

Black history is American history, and it is essential that we recognize and celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of African Americans in shaping our nation. The observance of Black History Month is an opportunity for us to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us, and to recommit ourselves to the pursuit of justice for all.

At the heart of this pursuit is the idea that all children are of value and deserve to be loved, honored, and included. These values are not just buzzwords–they are the cornerstone of a just and equitable society. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” By fostering a community that values every member, we are working to create a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion or any other aspect of their identity.

As superintendent, I am committed to ensuring that our schools are places where all students feel valued and supported, and where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. I encourage you to join me in this effort and to take the time to celebrate and learn about the rich history of African Americans during this month and throughout the year.

In Partnership,

Dania H. Bazzi, PhD
Superintendent

Click here to view the newsletter from Sonja James, WBSD Executive Director of Educational Equity and Inclusion.

• Celebrations and Recognitions
• Museum Offerings
• DEI Mantras
• Book Suggestions and MORE!

Six West Bloomfield High School DECA students will represent the Central Region of the United States at the DECA International Career Competition in Orlando, Florida in April 2023 in the Sports Virtual Business Challenge. They will compete among the other top fifteen teams from around the country for recognition, scholarships, and prizes. We are proud of all of our competitors and of our students below who worked hard to earn their spot among 45,000 competitors around the country. In photo: Ben Gurfinkel, Matthew Gordinier and Darin Lavine earn 1st place in round two of the Central Region for the DECA Virtual Business Sports Challenge.

Have you thought about creating your own "hype" song? Max caught up with professionally trained Jewish singer, guartist, and passionate musician Dan Nichols. He talks about being your own best friend and shares insights about the song writing process. Click here to check out the video.

Max Cool Gamer Columbus is a WBMS student and is part of the FIRST Robotics Middle School team. Max has interviewed local tv and radio personalities. Be sure to check out his YouTube channel. Thank you Max!

WBMS had their quarter 3 Reading Appreciation Program kick off on Monday, January 23. Students were so excited to check out books with the theme of Interdependence. A special thank you to the West Bloomfield Public Library for providing the books on deposit.

As part of the WBMS Robotics Community Outreach initiative, the team visited grades 3-5 to provide a sneak peak into the world of robotics. The Kids Klub group had the opportunity to learn about how a robot is powered and experience the robot in action.

WBHS vocal music students performed at Milford High School last weekend bringing home a perfect score. Performers included: Laker Express, Alexis Goldapper, Kelsey Hartley, Sela Kubiak, Jamari Ledesma, and Adreana Washington. Check out the performance video here.

A BIG CONGRATULATIONS to WBHS Laker Nation! Congratulations to all these amazing athletes, coaches, parents, and WBHS Athletic Department!

• Kennedy Farr - Grambling State University

• Rob Harris - Central State University

• Dallin Henry - Adrian College

• DeAndre Hill - Grand Valley State University

• Kenneth Jones III - Grand Valley State University

• Lexie Lafata - Adrian College
  
• Peyton Long - Albion College
• Zachary Mathews - Concordia University
  
• Brendan Moran - Adrian College
• Blake Nelson - Grand Valley State University

• Deonte Pippen Jr. - Grand Valley State University

• Gavin Swigart - Cornerstone University
  
  

Check out our Athletic Calendar, click here.

SEE YOU TONIGHT! Tickets are available at the door (cash and credit card accepted). Note: You will not receive an actual ticket, we will have a Registration Check-In table.

February 7, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

West Bloomfield Middle School Auditeria

A Multilingual Informational Parent Meeting will provide information on the following topics:

• Michigan Seal of Biliteracy
• WIDA State Assessment
• Monitoring your child's grades through Powerschool Parent Portal

All parents of Multilingual Learners in grades 6-through 12 are invited to attend. We hope to see you there! Invitation flyers here: English, Arabic, Spanish, 日本

Run an errand, head out to dinner with your sweetie, or relax with a book. Our team will be providing crafts, games, and pizza. This is a drop off event. Registration required, click here.

Register your little one for WBPA!

Opened on February 1 for Current Preschool Families

February 8 - Registration opens to the Public

Book Lists

· History in the Making – Civil Rights (Kids)

· Best Books for Kids 2022

· African American Historical Fiction (Teen)

Young Adult Gamefests

Saturday, February 4 from 2:30-4:30 p.m.
Play games of all kinds at the library! Board games, card games, video games, and virtual reality will all be available for you to try and enjoy in the Main Library Meeting Room. No registration required. For grades 6-12.

Westacres Bad Art Night

Wednesday, February 8 from 7-8 p.m.
Show off your creative side and make some really ugly art at our Westacres Branch! No talent or skill necessary. No registration required. For grades 6-12.

Be Mine Storytime

Thursday, February 9 at 10:30 p.m.
Let’s come together to share kindness, friendship, and love as we learn through our senses at these interactive creation stations. No registration required. For birth-5 years.

Do you have a newsworthy story to share? We want to share your wonderful stories with the rest of the community! Please share with us what is happening with your child(ren) and our staff. We would love to hear about your events and activities including awards, honors, good deeds, and accomplishments. Help us share your success stories in art, music, scholastics, athletics, drama, debate, and more. We look forward to sharing your news! Submit a story here.

• Employment Opportunities
• GWB Historical Society Events
• West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation