Alena Zachery-Ross

Soon after the pandemic hit, unemployment went up significantly on the east side of Washtenaw County.  Student homelessness and food insecurity went up, while any sense of security and stability plummeted. The Ypsilanti Community Schools and its partners responded in short order by creating "The Resiliency Center."  YCS superintendent Alena Zachery-Ross joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the center's impact so far and why the center will likely be with us even after the pandemic is over. 

With the help of Eastern Michigan University, the United Way, and other local groups, Ypsilanti Community Schools will open an in-person Learning Lab on Monday January 11th.  

Since the formation of the new Ypsilanti Community Schools (YCS) district, many changes have had to take place.  Busing routes were reorganized, learning curriculums have changed, and new school principals were hired.  Still, new YCS superintendent Alena Zachery-Ross sees nothing but a positive future for the district.  She talks about the district's progress with WEMU's Lisa Barry and Concentrate Media's Sarah Rigg in this week's "On the Ground-Ypsi."

Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti Community Schools, and Washtenaw County have joined forces for an education initiative.  The program was announced Saturday morning.  89.1 WEMU's Jorge Avellan was there and has the story.
 

After filling the position for several months on an interim basis, Alena Zachery-Ross was recently named the permanent superintendent for Ypsilanti Community Schools, and Dr. Carlos Lopez was recently hired as the assistant superintendent of curriculum.  89.1 WEMU's Lisa Barry spoke with both of them about their goals and efforts to work for the betterment of the Ypsilanti Community School District.

On November 6th, Ypsilanti Community Schools voters will decide a district request for funding through a new tax levy.  This is a “sinking fund” proposal.  It is somewhat different from an operating millage or bond issue request.  What’s the difference?  How would the Ypsilanti schools use the money, if approved?  89.1 WEMU’s Jorge Avellan went looking for those answers.