Community urges board to preserve University K12 leadership as restructuring looms

Board members heard multiple public comments urging them to preserve a single leadership structure for University K12 Academy amid planned administrative restructuring and upcoming facility moves.

At the public-comment portion, Kathy Slate, curriculum supervisor, told the board that University’s success — including high school index scores, expanded programming and strong family retention — was the product of “clear vision, consistent leadership, and aligned programming.” She warned that removing or diluting the head-dean role would fragment a K–12 system that she said currently provides a unified instructional vision and attracts families to the district.

Another speaker, Marie Banks, said the district must act quickly to protect enrollment tied to University K12. Banks urged more visible outreach and called for early community tours and busing plans so families can see the new facility before summer decisions are finalized. "We need busing. We need to see the building before July," she said, arguing that missed outreach could convert survey 'yes' responses to 'no' and prompt families to leave.

Superintendent Jennifer Green responded during the meeting to operational concerns about moving students to swing spaces. She said the district will establish a community bus stop at the Southfield Public Library on Evergreen for students moving from University K12; elementary/middle and high school students will have separate time slots and families will receive a district Google form to confirm transportation arrangements.

Board members did not take formal action on University K12’s leadership structure during the meeting. The public comments highlighted community expectations that the board factor program continuity and family confidence into any staffing or organizational changes.