Ferndale Schools: Looking Back, Looking Forward

By: Blake Prewitt, Superintendent, Ferndale Public Schools

JUNE MEANS THAT ANOTHER AWESOME school year at Ferndale Schools has come to an end. Recently, we held our commencement ceremonies for Ferndale High School and University High School. These were truly two special graduating classes. Listening to their eloquent speeches and hearing about all of their accomplishments really reminds you of what a special place Ferndale is to learn and grow. Our students represent the best of what Ferndale has to offer, and I can’t wait to see where their considerable talents take them.

I would like to share with you some interesting facts about the Class of 2015. Between our two graduating classes, Ferndale Schools graduated almost 250 seniors. In addition to the outstanding Michigan colleges and universities, our students will also attend MIT, Johns Hopkins University, The College for Creative Studies, University of Toledo, Tennessee State University, North Park University, Concordia University-Chicago, Tulane, Emory, The University of Edinburgh, Arizona State University, University of Findlay, Xavier, Penn State University, Clark-Atlanta University and Bowling Green State University in the Fall.

Our graduates were offered more than $5.5 million in scholarships to be earned for over the next 4 years. Students were also awarded almost $50,000 in scholarships donated by our local clubs, organizations and generous community and school benefactors. These scholarships once again reinforce what an amazing family Ferndale is a part of. We are incredibly lucky to have such a supportive and generous community.

This year we have our first ever Gates Millennium Scholar, Tommy Martin, and a National Merit Finalist, Nora Armijo- Sinnett.

We also have two seniors that have signed a letter of intent to play college sports. Tai Funari will swim for Wayne State University, and Markell McCoy will play football for the University of Findlay.

As you may have heard, this Fall we are . implementing the Cambridge International Honors program at Ferndale . Middle School for 7th and 8th graders. Ferndale Schools will be the first district in the state to offer this prestigious program. Cambridge International Examinations was established by of the University of Cambridge in England, and prepares students for life and helps them develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning. Cambridge’s international qualifications are recognized by the world’s best universities and employers, giving students a wide range of options in their education and career. If you want to learn more about the Cambridge Honors Program at Ferndale Middle School, please call 248.586.8611 or visit s www.ferndaleschools.org/academics/cambridge.

While our students have the summer off, Ferndale Schools never stops working to provide the very best educational opportunities for our students. Enrollment for next year is now open to resident and schools of choice students. To join the Ferndale Schools Family call 248-586-8686.

We look forward to seeing you all in the Fall!