The new school year will bring with it a new principal, as former Goodrich High School vice principal Elizabeth Wallberg will swap jobs with former Oaktree principal Mike Ellis.
Ellis has been principal of Oaktree Elementary 7500 S. Gale Road, for two years; Wallberg has been vice principal at the high school for a year and a half.
Superintendent Kimberly Hart said the changes come in response to the needs of both administrators, and will be mutually beneficial.
‘Every year we have to look at administrative alignment,? said Hart, ? this seemed to be a win-win situation.?
? This will provide them with something they are interested in, and be beneficial for the district,? said Hart.
Another difference will be found in the elimination of a fourth grade camp.
The camp has received additional attention this year amid growing tensions between staff and administration regarding union issues.
Hart said she was approached with requests to do away with the two-night, three day camping trip for fourth grader students two years ago.
Participation in the camp is on an unpaid, volunteer basis for teachers Hart explained.
Additionally, Hart said the camp may put undo hardships on teachers who are kept away from their private lives for three days.
‘It’s at a time right now where we probably need to re-evaluate,? said Hart.
Hart credits parents with taking initiative to ensure camp took place in the 2005-2006 school year.
‘We are not going to have that same (camp) experience this upcoming year,? said Hart. However, she added, that does not mean another activity will not take the place of the camp for fourth graders.
‘Nothing is planned yet, but the staff is exploring other options and are open to suggestions.?