A new era has dawned for the Highland Park School District and Barber Preparatory Academy. Thankfulness fills the hearts of the leadership, educators, staff and scholars as they look toward a brighter future that truly puts children first. 

“I am thankful for our resilient children,” said Shamayim Harris, president of the HPSD Board of Education. “The adaptability and flexibility they have shown when their regular school routine was disrupted is remarkable. And still they rise. This makes me confident and assured as they are becoming the new leaders in our community and the world.” 

The new school year kicked off this fall with great enthusiasm for returning to in-class learning following the COVID-19 pandemic. Excitement filled the halls as a new principal, along with returning teachers and staff, greeted scholars for the 2021-22 academic year. 

“I am so thankful that I get to do what I love every day,” said Barber Prep Principal Timeka Brown. “I’m grateful for making a difference in the lives of our students through the staff and myself.” 

Those sentiments are echoed by many Highland Parkers who have watched their community school district and its flagship PreK-8th school flourish despite the pandemic. Many have come together to support the families and students. 

Chief Education Officer Zakia Gibson has actively participated in improving outcomes and developing a high-quality education for Highland Park children. She was instrumental in creating the district’s core values which are aligned with measurable outcomes. 

“The children of Highland Park deserve a world-class education,” said Gibson. “When we put children first in all our decisions, the sky is the limit. I genuinely believe that our scholars can achieve anything they set their minds to do.” 

These annual goals focus on:

• Organization that focuses on vision, governance, resources, leadership and staff;
• Standards-Based Scholar Learning that includes a rigorous and innovative curriculum, high-quality instruction, and assessment and accountability; and
• Academic Climate, Culture and Support that provide a comprehensive system of support services to facilitate scholar success both academically and personally. 

For complete details on the district’s annual goals and objectives, you are encouraged to visit https://hipark.org/detailed-educational-strategic-plan. 

“During this season of gratitude, I especially want to acknowledge the dedication of the Highland Park School District Board of Education and President Shamayim Harris as well as the Barber Prep Board of Directors and President Jason Patton,” said Gibson. “Together, we can do amazing work by always putting children first.” 

The district’s new education partner, ACCEL Schools Michigan, believes in creating successful schools one child at a time. With some of the most successful schools in the country in their network, they work to find the right solution for each child. 

“I am very grateful to work collaboratively with the Highland Park School District to provide 21st century academic programming and partnerships that will enhance student achievement and academic potential for all students,” said Pam Farris, ACCEL Schools regional vice president. 

The Highland Park community is invited to follow both the district and Barber Prep on Facebook to get all the latest news.