Spelling-bee winners, athletes and volunteers recognized at Southfield school board meeting

The Southfield Board of Education recognized spelling-bee participants, student-athletes and a district partner during its March 11 meeting.

Why it matters: The recognitions highlight extracurricular success and community partnerships that school leaders say boost student engagement and academic culture.

At the start of the recognitions, Summer Caldwell Carruthers called spelling bee winners forward and presented medals and book packets to students who had won school-level competitions and advanced to the county contest. Superintendent Jennifer Green and board members joined staff in photo recognitions.

Athletics: Shaquita Coltrane, athletic director and girls basketball coach, introduced awards and named student standouts. She said senior swimmer Tanner Harrington "won the OAA Blue Championship, first place in the 100 breaststroke and 50 freestyle" and qualified for the state meet. Coach Coltrane also noted bowler Jason (Jasa) (season high 278, regional qualifier who finished 27th at state) and wrestler Kenneth Brooks, who finished the season 27–5 and advanced to regionals.

Partner of the month: The board honored Yolanda Shavers, a volunteer at Adler Elementary, naming her district partner of the month. Tonja Shelman, ASD lead teacher at Adler Elementary, nominated Shavers and described her as "a go-getter, always in good spirits" who supports students and staff.

Ending: Trustees and the superintendent praised students and volunteers for community engagement and said their successes underscore efforts to rebuild school culture and extracurricular opportunities.