In case you missed the article in The Oxford Leader this week!
Greetings, Oxford Community! I am pleased to bring you this month’s update highlighting the operations and ongoing progress within our district. Today, I will be sharing our proactive approach to resolving conflicts that keeps students feeling safe and welcome, an exciting facility improvement fully funded by Oakland Schools, a note about the foundational revenue needed to sustain our daily operations, and an upcoming opportunity for us to connect in person.
A key part of effective school operations is maintaining a secure environment. While we have implemented many rigorous measures to ensure the physical safety of our buildings, we are equally focused on the psychological safety and well-being of our students and staff. We are encouraged that in a recent survey, the vast majority of our students stated they agree or strongly agree that they feel safe and welcome within our halls. To maintain this, our staff is focused on proactive relationship-building. By addressing the root causes of conflicts, we can effectively repair relationships and keep students actively engaged in the classroom rather than relying solely on disciplinary measures such as suspensions.
On the facilities front, you may soon notice construction at the Oxford Education and Innovative Campus (OEIC) on Drahner Road. Several of the old structures will be removed to make room for a new Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Center-Based Program. This project is made possible by an almost $5.6 million investment from Oakland Schools. Securing this county funding is a massive win; it provides high-quality support for students right here at home while ensuring a positive financial impact for our district budget. The center is expected to welcome its first students this fall!
Fiscally, we are preparing for the Non-Homestead Operating Millage Replacement on the August 4, 2026, ballot. This represents essential operating revenue that is standard throughout Michigan. The state’s funding formula assumes districts collect a full 18 mills on local businesses and non-homestead properties. This renewal will result in no tax increase for homeowners. Without these funds, our district would receive less funding per pupil than other districts statewide, creating a $7 million shortfall. A cut of that magnitude would be deeply felt, severely impacting what we provide to students and staff daily. Strong schools lead to a strong community, benefiting both homeowners and local businesses.
For accurate millage information, please visit oxfordschools.org/millage.
If you’d like to discuss these updates (or any other district matters), I would love for you to join me for Coffee & Connect on April 13th from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Evergreens Coffee (9 S Washington St). I value your partnership as we work together to support our students!