Homecoming festivities and mental health initiatives took center stage at the Redford Union Board of Education meeting on October 14, 2024. The meeting kicked off with a celebration of the recent homecoming event, where Derek Taveletti and Ariana Jones were crowned king and queen, respectively. The theme of the event was "red carpet," and it culminated in a resounding 54-0 victory for the Panthers.
In addition to the homecoming highlights, the board discussed the progress of the Hope Squad, a student-led initiative focused on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The program is nearing full QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training, equipping students with vital skills to support their peers. The board expressed enthusiasm for future presentations from Hope Squad members, aiming to further engage the community in mental health discussions.
Superintendent Witt also shared updates on various school events, including successful open houses at Beach and Hilbert schools, where families participated in scavenger hunts and learned about recent renovations. The first family game night at the elementary level saw over 120 participants, showcasing strong community involvement.
Highlighting the importance of health and wellness, the high school is partnering with the American Red Cross for a series of blood drives this school year. Additionally, a recent event at Ford Field allowed the Lady Panthers flag football team to showcase their talents, meeting a flag football legend who inspired them about women in sports.
The meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for students, both academically and emotionally, as they continue to build on these initiatives throughout the school year.