assistant before entering the program. She says Grow Your Own has been transformative. Crabtree is working on an endorsement in Bilingual Bicultural Education at Wayne State University and will finish in June 2026. “It’s an investment in people who already love the district and understand the community,” she says.“That experience translates directly into better outcomes for students.” Love’s journey is equally powerful. Originally from Guatemala, she began her career in Waterford as a paraprofessional while rebuilding her life as a single parent. The Grow Your Own program gave her the opportunity to pursue a long-held dream of becoming a certified teacher. Love will also graduate from Oakland University in April 2026.“This program didn’t just change my career—it changed my life,” she shares. “It recognized lived experience, cultural understanding and the value of investing in educators who reflect the students they serve.” SAFETY & FACILITIES INVESTMENT In 2020, voters approved a $150 million bond that has enabled Waterford to modernize facilities districtwide. One of the cornerstone projects is the Stepanski Early Childhood Center, which opened in 2023 and now serves approximately 600 children through early childhood education, preschool and childcare programs. Additional bond-funded investments include upgraded performing arts centers, enhanced athletic facilities, improved playgrounds, and significant infrastructure upgrades. Safety remains a top priority, with continued enhancements that focus on providing a secure learning environment for students. Waterford also benefits from a close partnership with local law enforcement. School resource officers are stationed at each middle and high school and they also serve as security liaisons to all nine elementary schools and the early childhood center. Ongoing staff training and collaboration with township police further reinforce a culture of preparedness and trust. THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT As the district enters the final year of its current strategic plan, leadership is actively shaping the 343 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 WATERFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT
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