Livonia board honors trustee Tammy Bonafield after 12 years of service

The Livonia Public Schools Board of Education on Dec. 16 adopted a resolution recognizing Trustee Tammy Bonafield for 12 years of service to the district.

The board read a formal resolution that traced Bonafield’s service from her initial election in November 2012 and noted subsequent reelections in 2016 and 2020. The resolution cited her district and community leadership, participation in PTA and Rotary activities and completion of Michigan Association of School Boards training that contributed to the board’s honor status. The board presented Bonafield with a crystal apple and a district‑emblem vase as tokens of appreciation.

Bonafield addressed the board, thanking colleagues and recalling her first public appearance about 23 years ago advocating for the Jackson Center daycare program. “It’s been a fantastic 12 years,” she said, adding she plans to remain active in community and Rotary work. Assistant Superintendent Phil Francis, speaking on behalf of the administration, thanked Bonafield for being “an advocate for children, a thoughtful and wise voice” on the board.

Multiple board members offered remarks praising Bonafield’s willingness to raise difficult questions and to push for discussion. Missus Burton said Bonafield’s insistence on examining different angles during tough votes “made us a better school district.” The board voted unanimously to adopt the resolution; the meeting paused briefly for photos.

The resolution and gifts concluded the recognition portion of the meeting; Bonafield said she will remain active in the community. The board then resumed its regular agenda.