district. Hendrickson relays, “This was the first year of our community showcase, bringing our nonprofits, our government agencies, our for-profit businesses and community into the schools where students and staff can interact, build relationships and understand each other’s worlds.” Partnerships with external organizations such as Learning Works, New Tech Network, Knowledge Works, and Michigan’s Future of Learning Council have also been critical. “We could not have done what we’ve done in the accelerated way we’ve done it without educational partners,” underscores Hendrickson.“It’s that work that is now inspiring the local partnerships we’re going to be building with our community to ensure they are an outcome and an input to our educational system.” A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD As the district continues to evolve, Dr. Coffin says expanding opportunities for every student is a top priority. She recounts, “We get to serve one of the key relationships across every person in our buildings and in our district,” acknowledges Dr. Coffin. “That’s really our focus, making sure that our students are heard and seen and noticed, and they have a caring and trusted adult throughout the day.” Partnerships with the cities of Farmington and Farmington Hills strengthen that effort, ensuring the presence of school liaison officers in every building. In addition, the district has added hall monitors at the high schools. Community connection is another priority for the Brian J. Smilnak, AIA bsmilnak@wakelyaia.com wakelyaia.com 586.573.4100 30500 Van Dyke Ave. Suite 209 Warren, MI 48093 OUR SERVICES • Architectural Design • Feasibility Studies & Assessments • Bond Issue & Sinking Fund Experience • Municipal Work Founded in 1951, Wakely is one of Michigan's oldest, continuously operated, full service architectural firms 262 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11
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