Waterford Today

The Pontiac City School District swore in its new board members at a recent meeting. 

The board welcomed Kenyada Bowman, Troy Craft, Sha’Quana David-Smith, Anisha Hannah and Marcus Terry to their swearing-in ceremony that included family and friends.

Each of the trustees was sworn in by a loved one. The group then took a brief recess to celebrate the occasion and take some photos. 

Bowman, David-Smith, Hannah and Terry had all been re-elected.

“I'm very excited about this group of men and women who have over the years I've seen grow into the positions,” said Gill Garrett, the board’s president. “They've always been solid pillars for the Pontiac School District. The things that we have needed to accomplish were always grassroots and behind the scenes, and there's nothing like being at the decision-making table. 

"Now, after having some history and some knowledge, I finally feel at this moment, this is going to be a special group of board trustees,” he added.

Superintendent Kelley Williams also recognized the members for their work in the district.

January is school board member appreciation month for the state of Michigan. Williams read a proclamation from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer honoring their hard work in governing and guiding the district and community as well as assisting the students’ education.

Board members received a lawn chair with school colors and their name on it as a token of appreciation from the school administration.

During the meeting, the board said farewell to DeSheil Echols, the assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, who is retiring at the end of January.