Office of Public School Academies Celebrates 20 Years at Annual Appreciation Dinner

The Oakland University Office of Public School Academies (PSA) recently hosted its annual appreciation dinner for board members and community partners on Wednesday, April 29. This year’s event was held at the historic Masonic Temple in downtown Detroit to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the annual dinner.

PSA Executive Director Latacha King opened the event by thanking Academy board members and administrators for attending the celebratory dinner, as well as their continued service in the success of students. She also commended her former Executive Director Judeen Bartos for her 20 years of service with a special card designed especially for the occasion, which guests were able to sign with a heartfelt message.

Every year, attendees of the dinner have the privilege of hearing from current Academy students. This year’s student speakers were eighth graders Jariyah Al-Haqq from Caniff Liberty Academy and Rylee Moy from Four Corners Montessori Academy. Each student spoke about how their experiences at their respective schools have shaped the person they are today.

Moy detailed the Montessori approach, which has aided her academics and cultivated her independence, while Al-Haqq praised Caniff staff for their dedication to supporting her educational endeavors. Both speakers highlighted their teachers for their continuous support during strenuous moments and personal life changes, as well as their aspirations for the future as they embark on a new journey starting high school this fall.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in honoring and celebrating the dedication of our Academies’ leaders!