TRIX ACADEMY
September 8, 2020
From the Desk of the Principal
As we begin the new year, I would like to take the opportunity to share a few reminders.
- Please update your contact information in the office. It is very important for the school to be able to remain in contact with all of our families. At times we will send communications via our robo call system and as a school, we want to make sure all of our families are informed.
- During dismissal, please pick your child up from the curb side. To help ensure all of our scholars are safe during dismissal. Also, to ensure traffic is flowing, please do not block the middle of the street.
- Join us on Facebook at Web Address: www.facebook.com@TrixAcademy
- Join us on the web at: trix.mecc-academies.org
If you have questions regarding any of the reminders, please contact the office at your earliest convenience.
Detra Coleman, Ed.S.
Trix Academy School Leader
Meet our Leadership Team
Ms. Coleman has been in education for 17 years. She has been with MECC for 7 years and with Trix Academy specifically for 3 years. She enjoys being in leadership because of the impact it has on scholars, teachers and the family as a whole. Ms. Coleman looks forward to the 2020-2021 school year and all of the great things our scholars are going to demonstrate.
Ms. Hayes
Ms. Paula Hayes is the Culture Specialist at Trix Academy. She comes to you with over 20 years of educational experience. This is currently her third year at Trix Academy. Ms. Hayes has worked in the capacity of a behavior specialist or dean for over 10 years. She is truly excited and thrilled to be a part of the Trix Academy family. Her goal this school year is to help provide support and balance to our scholars and families as we deal with the pandemic and virtual learning. Ms. Hayes is truly excited about working with the scholars and parents this year to watch and help them grow virtually.
Ms. Orpe
instructional Coach, Karen Orpe has over 20 years of experience as an award-winning social studies teacher, innovative curriculum developer, effective training program designer, and caring teacher mentor. Her focus has always been creating strong relationships with stakeholders to fully realize the transformative power of education. You won't be able to miss her positive, "Whoo Hoo" attitude as she supports the teachers at Trix Academy. Here's to a great 2020-2021 school year!
Meet our Office Manager
Meet our Social Worker
Martha Miller is the school social worker at Trix Academy. Her role is to actively address barriers within the child, home, school and community that interferes with student achievement. She provides services to students and families such as: assessment, crisis intervention, individual and group counseling. Mrs. Miller also facilitates the coordination of school and community resources. It is her hope that the school year will be full of successful experiences for all students. Please feel free to contact Ms. Miller if you have any concerns about your child.
Meet our Lower Elementary Teachers
Hello, my name is Ms. Long and I'm very excited to start my seventh year teaching! This is my fourth year at Trix and I will be teaching kindergarten. In the past I also taught second grade. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Early Childhood from Baker College. I’m so excited to work with the scholars and staff to continue building a supportive school environment. I can't wait to start exploring, learning and growing as we begin the year. This year will be a very different year for everyone, so please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns that you may have. So as we progress through this year, I know it will be filled with collective learning and growth for all.
Ms. Owens
Hello, Trix Academy Students and Families. My name is Ms. Owens and I am the 1st grade Teacher at Trix Academy. I have been in education nearly 20 years and I can truly say that I love being a Teacher. Prior to teaching 1st grade, I taught Kindergarten as well as tutoring students in 2nd and 3rd grades. My passion for education runs deep. I have earned degrees from Wayne State University in Child Psychology, as well as Central Michigan University. Born and raised in Detroit, I attended Detroit Public Schools, where my passion for education continued
to grow and develop. I have a 12-year-old daughter, of whom will be entering the 7th grade this fall. I absolutely love education and believe that every scholar has a chance to succeed given the proper tools, opportunity and knowledge. A few of my hobbies include; reading, cooking and traveling. I enjoy reading self- empowering books, which helps to promote positivity and growth, cooking meals with my family and traveling to warm places. I am looking forward to a
great and vibrant 2020-21 school year. One that will transform our educational paths as we know it, however, with a strong structure and swift determination I am positive that our scholars will advance strong and steady. Contact info: Email- t.owens@mecc-acadmies.org, Trix Academy 313-426-1020.
Ms. Bradley
I am super excited about this school year! With everything going on in the world, I have gained a new perspective on education and how important it is for our children to acquire a beneficial one. This will allow them a better chance to survive everything that will ever be thrown their way and I intend to fulfill the role I play in it all this school year. I am dedicated to the overall betterment of our children and I welcome your partnership. Feel free to contact me anytime if a scholar needs any assistance with content worked on at home. I will make myself available and ensure their comprehension every step of the way. I look forward to serving our scholars this school year. See you soon!
Meet our Upper Elementary Teachers
Ms. Truesdell would like to welcome everyone to Trix Academy. Christine Truesdell will teach third grade. This is her second year at Trix and she is looking forward to an adventurous school year. Ms. Truesdell is a graduate of Oakland Community College and Wayne State University. She majored in Education and Social Studies with a minor in Art. She is the proud parent of a wonderful 27 year old daughter and several cats. She lives in Ohio but her mom lives with her, so she is not alone. Outside of school she worked with several animal rescues and is a foster parent to many cats. Ms. Truesdell also loves to do many different arts and craft projects. Reading mysteries and stories on the Titanic is also a favorite pastime for her. Ms. Truesdell looks forward to working with you and your students this year.
Ms. Purdy, Fourth Grade Teacher
Sheryll Purdy, will be teaching 4th grade. This is her fourth year living and working in MI where she is from. Most of her teaching career has been out of state. She loves being near her family and teaching in the beautiful city of Detroit. She often feels that her scholars have as much to teach her as she does them! In short, Ms. Purdy has the best job in the world in the best city. We have a lot to accomplish this year and it will take all of us working together to get to the finish line. Your scholar and Ms. Purdy can't do it alone-we need you! She can't wait to meet you and your scholar to get to know you. Ms. Purdy is expecting to have a wonderful year full of fun, success, learning, smiles and pride. See you soon!!
Meet our Middle School Teachers
Ms. Yolanda Betty is the middle school science teacher this year. She is looking forward to a fantastic year of learning and fun! She is a Detroit resident, born and raised. She graduated from Cass Tech and received her Bachelors in Science from Michigan State University. Ms. Betty went on to University of Phoenix where she received her Masters in Secondary Education with an endorsement in Biology. Her teacher’s certification is through the State of Arizona. She absolutely loves science, has been studying science since her chemical bio curriculum at Cass, to her Zoology major at State, to Biology at University of Phoenix. She is passing that love of science on to her wonderful bright students. It’s going to be an awesome journey as we work together to have the best year ever.
Ms. Brown, Middle School Math Teacher
This is Ms. Brown's 6th year of teaching. She has previously taught 5th and 6th grade all subjects and middle school science. She has a Bachelor's Degree from Fayetteville State University in North Carolina and a Masters Degree from Troy University in Alabama. Although last year did not end as expected, she is very excited to be teaching Middle School Math again this year. Ms. Brown is looking forward to teaching our scholars how math impacts our everyday life. She is also looking forward to working collaboratively with you to have a wonderfully school year. Please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Brown regarding any concerns you may have regarding your scholar throughout the school year.
Mr. Tzavellas, Middle School Social Studies Teacher
Mr. Tzavellas joined the Trix team in March of last school year and has had the opportunity to meet many of you and your scholars virtually. He has a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Detroit Mercy and this is his third year in the classroom. He has enjoyed every second he has been at Trix Academy and look forward to being able to be back in the classroom with your scholars to greet our returning students and meet our new ones!
Meet Our Resource Room Teachers
Ms. Dye
Sharon Dye is a native Detroiter who received her education through Detroit Public Schools. Sharon also obtained both her bachelor and master’s degree from Wayne State University in the areas of Psychology and Teaching. Sharon has over 18 years as a Special Education professional working directly with children on the Autism Spectrum, Cognitive Impairments, and Learning Disabilities in both the Detroit and Metro Detroit area. She currently holds the position of Lead Special Education teacher at Trix Academy since December 2019. Sharon believes in building relationships with scholars and families through regular communication, goal setting, and maintaining high expectations in order to create the foundation for positive academic outcomes.
Ms. Mbua
Monica Mbua is the K-5 resource teacher at Trix Academy. She has been working here at Trix for 5 years. I received my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and her master’s degree in Reading from Marygrove College. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Special Education and have been working with students with exceptionalities for 5 years. She can’t wait to meet you all and start off to an exciting 2020-2021 school year as well!
Meet Our Teacher Intern
Mr. Orellana, Teacher Intern
Steven Othon Orellana is currently in his second year at Trix Academy. He was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago and lived there until he went off to Ferris State University. At Ferris State, he graduated with degrees in History and Political Science. He is excited for this school year and getting to know everyone!
Meet our Teacher Assistants
Miss Bell will be the TA for second grade this year. This will be her 3rd year with Trix academy and her 6th year working in education. She currently has her associates degree in Early Childhood Education, and loves working with the little ones. She looks forward to all the exploring, learning, and fun we will have!
Mr. Cross, Teacher Assistant
Darryle Cross grew up on the Eastside of Detroit, MI. He attended the Detroit Public Schools System and graduated from Charles F. Kettering High School. After high school he attended North Central Michigan College in Petoskey, MI - where he studied Early Childhood Education. He is entering his second year proudly serving as a teacher assistant at Trix Academy. Prior to joining the Trix staff, he worked with Head Start for 10 years as a teacher assistant and lead teacher. He is very passionate about working with children. He greatly enjoys setting goals with the scholars and watching them accomplish their goals.
Let's have a phenomenal year!
Ms. DuRue, Teacher Assistant
Ms. DeRue is the Middle School Math Teacher Assistant for the 2020-2021 school year. She will be working closely with the lead Middle School Math Teacher, Ms. Brown, to ensure that scholars have all the necessary support they may need in order to succeed and excel in mathematics. In regards to her educational background, she have both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor. She has previously worked as a Substitute Teacher in and around the Detroit area and plan to get her Teaching Certificate in the near future. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, visiting museums, and trying new foods. She hope everyone has a great start to the new school year, and I look forward to meeting and working with the scholars!
Ms. Henry, Teacher Assistant
Ms. Henry is the Teacher Assistant for Kindergarten. She is from Detroit, MI and she graduated from Michigan State University with a B.A. in Journalism. This will be her second year working in education and she is very excited to be working at Trix Academy this academic school year.
Mr. Keys, Teacher Assistant
Andre keys has worked with Phalen Leadership Academy scholars in and out of the classroom to help improve their academics and behavior. His focus on community collaboration has led him to several volunteer opportunities and community leadership roles. Mr. Keys graduated from University High School in Ferndale, MI. He is currently pursuing a B.S in Secondary Education with a concentration in English & Communication.
Meet our Academic Interventionist
Ms. Welch, Academic Interventionist
Ms. Welch was formally educated in the Miami Dade County Public school system as an honor student. After being accepted to the prestigious Spelman College she earned a bachelors degree in English. Next, she attended Nova Southeastern University where she earned a Master of Science degree. Presently, Professor Welch is very close to the end of her doctoral degree program in Organizational Leadership. Ms. Welch espouses the idea that the purpose of education is to create free thinkers. She believes that interaction with the written text using modern technology is critical in academia in order for our students to become successful global learners and citizens.Meet our Enrichment Teachers
Mr. Allen, PE Teacher
Mr. Allen was born and raised in Detroit Michigan. He went to Florida State on a basketball scholarship to get a bachelors degree in Social Science. Upon graduation, he lived abroad for 7 years playing international basketball. Throughout his basketball experience he always worked with the youth which opened up the opportunity to get into education. This is his 3rd year in education and 2nd year as the Health and Physical Education teacher at Trix Acedemy.
Mr. McLean is a University of Michigan graduate with a bachelors degree. He has taught for over 17 years, across all grade levels and subject matters from HeadStart to 12th grade. Some of his extra curricular activities include listening to music, designing t-shirts and watching wrestling. His educational philosophy: Everyone has something to learn and everyone has something to teach.
Favorite Quote: Each one, Reach one, Teach one.
Mr. Robertston, Art Teacher
Mr. Robertson returns to the Trix Academy family for the third consecutive year as the Art teacher. His educational journey includes receiving a Bachelors of Art in English (concentration in professional communications), with a minor in Art (concentration in photography and ceramics) from Marygrove College. He then went on to receive a Masters of Science in Interactive Media from Quinnipiac University. Mr. Robertson returns to Trix Academy with a deep passion for art and creativity, in which he intends to reach each scholar on his/her level.
Kickboard
Kickboard is Trix Academy’s behavior tracking system based on 7 core virtues. On a weekly basis scholars will earn dollars for their decision making and actions displayed throughout the school day. Each scholar is awarded $100 every Thursday. Scholars can earn dollars for making positive decision that adds to the school and/or classroom community or have money deducted if the scholar detracts from the school or classroom environment. Scholars will be allowed to use the money he/she has earned throughout the week to attend our weekly Incentive Friday celebration. Scholars will celebrate their successes in a variety of ways each Friday afternoon.
Our virtues are truth, justice, harmony, reciprocity, propriety, balance and order. During the month of September, all scholars will begin learning each virtue. Beginning in October, scholars will begin learning one virtue a month in greater detail. Scholars will be expected to apply the virtue learned to real life.
NWEA Fall Testing
Third Grade Reading Law
Being a good reader is critical if a student is going to be successful in school. In order for students to be college and career ready, it is important that they have strong literacy skills. In 2016, the Michigan Legislature passed House Bill No. 4822 to ensure that children who exit Third Grade are reading at grade level. All children in Grade Three are required to take the state assessment and beginning in the 2019-2020 school year, students must be proficient on the reading portion of this test in order to be promoted to the Fourth Grade.
In accordance with this law, and as a means of better informing classroom instruction, we will complete assessments in Kindergarten through Third Grade. These assessments will identify students who need intensive reading instruction and will also provide useful information to help teachers tailor instruction to meet individual student needs. Students will be assessed in reading at the beginning, middle, and end of the school year. The law also requires districts to provide written communication with parents of Kindergarten through Third Grade students who are not meeting proficiency targets. These notifications and a reading plan were given and discussed at Parent-Teacher Conferences during the first parent teacher conference. It is critical for everyone to be on the same page regarding Michigan’s reading law. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher or the principal.
Dress Code
Trix Academy is a uniform school. All scholars in grades K-8 are expected to be in proper uniform daily. Please ensure your child(ren) are in uniform daily.
- Grades K-3: Red polo shirt with black or khaki pants.
- Grades 4-5: Gray polo shirt with black or khaki pants.
- Grades 6-8: Solid black or white shirt with black or khaki pants.
During the cooler months, scholars may wear long sleeves or sweaters. All long sleeves or sweaters, must match the uniform color for the specific grade level. Jean and sweat pants are not allowed.
Breakfast
Trix Academy serves breakfast daily from 8:05am - 8:30am in each classroom. It is very important for all scholars to arrive at breakfast time to eat breakfast. As a gentle reminder, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.