Standout candidate demonstrates values-based leadership
The Avondale Board of Education approved the appointment of Mr. Jamie Brooks as Avondale High School assistant principal to fill the position vacated by Mrs. Sharon Hyde when she was named principal of Avondale High School at the start of the 2015-2016 school year. “Mr. Brooks was a front-runner throughout the interview process. He has a genuine demeanor and documented leadership skills. His experience demonstrates that he is a values-based leader with a strong commitment to success for all students,” said Avondale Superintendent Dr. James Schwarz.
Mr. Jamie Brooks, Avondale High School Assistant Principal
Brooks’ career in education is filled with participation in initiatives focused on student, family and community relationships. As assistant principal of Winans Academy, he developed partnerships with Eastern Michigan University, Oakland University and Florida A&M alumni. He is also the president of the parent organization, BAAFN (Birmingham African American Family Network). In addition, as part of his commitment to all students achieving, he co-developed and implemented a male after-school mentoring program; created an anti-bullying program; and implemented and facilitated R.T.I. (Response to Intervention) and P.B.I.S. (Positive Behavior Interventions and Support) programs. He has participated in community forums and spoke to issues related to healthy educational environments and the need for ongoing community support to reach district goals.
Hyde feels that Brooks’ strength in building relationships is the perfect fit for Avondale School District. “During the interview process we knew we were looking for the person who shared Avondale’s belief that relationships are at the heart of student success. Everything we do across the District reflects our conviction that each student matters. We wanted to find someone who also had that mindset.”
Brooks, who holds a Bachelor of Science, Masters of Arts in Communication, Masters of Arts in Education, Administration Certification, and Specialist of Arts in Education felt what Hyde described about Avondale from the moment interviewing began. “I understood Avondale to be a special community from the start. There was every indication that the staff and administrators sincerely and genuinely care about each student,” he said. “That’s where learning begins – with students knowing that their teachers and school leaders care about their success. It begins with those relationships – with trust – from there everything can happen.”
