YCS School Profiles

Beatty Early Learning Center

1661 Leforge Rd.
 Ypsilanti, MI 48198
 734-994-8178

Director/Principal: Keynon Atchison

Beatty Early Learning Center provides high-quality, full-day preschool for three and four-year-olds in a center-based setting. Beatty focuses on preparing young children academically, socially, and emotionally for kindergarten through a comprehensive curriculum with positive guidance and individualized attention.

Ford Early Learning Center

2440 Clark Road
 Ypsilanti, MI 48198
 734-221-1800

Principal: Daniel Young

Ford STEAM Early Learning Center is a Magnet School offering innovative, hands-on learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) for preschool - 1st grade students. Scholars engage in project-based learning through PLTW Launch and explore electives like robotics, technology, and arts.

Principal, Daniel Young Profile

Daniel Young joined Ford Early Learning Center in 2020, after serving the students of Detroit, Michigan for 18 years. He began his career as a music teacher and continued to serve as a  lead teacher, assistant principal, and principal, respectively. He is excited to begin this new chapter in his life serving the Ypsilanti Community Schools in the capacity as the principal of Ford ELC.

Mr. Young was born and raised in Detroit and attended Wayne State University where he earned his Bachelor of Music, Master of Education, and Education Specialist degrees.

Throughout his career, Daniel has gained experiences and skills that has lead to more effective teachers, successful students, and engaged families, and he is excited to share his knowledge with the Ypsilanti community in hopes to collaborate for an even better educational community and experiences for all of our students, staff, and families.

Mr. Young believes that the number one factor in all successful students is their community believing in them. Therefore, if you believe they can, they will. During his free time, Mr. Young enjoys spending time with family and writing music.

Perry Early Learning Center

550 Perry Street
 Ypsilanti, MI. 48197
 734-221-1700

Principal, Brian Dickerson

Perry Early Learning Center is a cornerstone of early childhood education with a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, serving children preschool - 1st grade. Perry provides a high-quality, nurturing, and research-informed learning experience with a play-based, child-centered curriculum emphasizing individualization and positive guidance. Kindergarten offers a strong literacy focus and engaging experiences in the arts and sciences, rooted in the legacy of the landmark Perry Preschool Study.

Erickson Elementary School      

1427 Levona
 Ypsilanti, Michigan 48198
 734-221-1600

Principal, Dr. Cassandra Sheriff

Erickson Elementary School is a community of leaders for students in grades 1-5, offering Unified Arts (Art, Music, PE, Science). Erickson focuses on cultivating success through a positive school culture with high expectations, emphasizing excellence, equity, and inclusion to equip all students to become leaders.

Principal, Dr. Sheriff Profile:

I am delighted to be a part of Ypsilanti Community Schools. 

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan working with children and families has always been my passion; with over 25 years of experience in education, family, and community services I have a broad background in education and mental health as a teacher, counselor, early childhood program administrator, interim county director, and elementary school principal. 

I hold a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Michigan State University, a Master of Science Degree in Family and Community Services from Michigan State University, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Michigan State University. I am a certified Michigan K-12 Administrator through Eastern Michigan University College of Education. 

I am married to my loving husband Attorney Omar Sheriff.  We share three wonderful children Danny, Jacob, and Kennedy.  When work commitments are met, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends, giving back to the community, learning new things, laughing, listening to music, and traveling.

Estabrook Learning Community

1555 West Cross Street
 Ypsilanti, MI 48197
 734-221-1901

Principal, Ryan Johnson

Estabrook Elementary partners with the community to build positive relationships and a safe, engaging environment. Estabrook promotes appreciation for diversity and sets high expectations for students in grades 2-5 to create lifelong learners and promote career readiness through a rigorous curriculum that embraces individual student gifts. Estabrook also offers a Dual Language Immersion Program.

Principal, Ryan Johnson Profile

Ryan began his teaching career in 2002 as a media specialist and immediately moved into the role of classroom teacher the following year. From 2003 until 2018 he moved back and forth between 4th and 5th grade crafting his love of teaching and building strong relationships with his students and families. The 16 years he spent in Dearborn Heights District 7 also presented him with leadership opportunities and growth while developing his desire to become an educational leader./p>

Ryan graduated from Eastern Michigan University with his undergraduate degree in 2002. Five years later he completed his Masters in the Art of Teaching from Marygrove College. He received his Educational Leadership Masters in August 2018./p>

Mr. Johnson is excited to begin a new chapter of his career at the same time that Estabrook is transforming itself. He prides himself on being able to create a safe and comfortable learning environment for all students. Ryan welcomes collaboration and input from all stakeholders and invites anyone to pull up a chair, have a cup of coffee, and talk about the betterment of the school community.

Personally, Ryan is a father of 4 wonderful children. Twins, Jack and Mary are 14 years old and beginning their high school years. Noah, 10 and Luke, 8 also keep him busy. Ryan’s wife, Shannon, of 18 years is a RN with the University of Michigan Hospital and they have lived in Brighton, Michigan for past 8 years.

Holmes Elementary School

1255 Holmes Road
 Ypsilanti, MI 48198
 734-221-2100

Principal: Zack Chutz

Holmes STEAM Elementary School is a Magnet School dedicated to hands-on, integrated learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) for grades 2-5. Holmes uses Project Lead the Way (PLTW) to immerse students in real-world problem-solving, fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity in an engaging and equitable environment.

Young Confident Scholars
  

• Home of the Grizzly Cubs
  

(YIES) Ypsilanti International Elementary School 

503 Oak Street
 Ypsilanti, MI 48198
 734-221-2401

Principal: Dr. Timothy Authier

Special Services Offered in Building:

Ypsilanti International Elementary School (YIES) is an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) authorized school. www.ibo.org

What is an IB PYP School?
The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) is a curriculum framework designed for students 3 to 12 years of age. It focuses on the development of the whole child as an inquirer; both in the classroom, and in the world outside. 

Ypsilanti International Elementary School (YIES) is a K-5 International Baccalaureate (IB) school that emphasizes inquiry-based learning in a hands-on environment. YIES offers an integrated curriculum, motivating students to reach their highest potential and become productive global citizens. Enrollment requires an application and may involve a lottery.

Ypsilanti Community Middle School - IB Program

235 Spencer Lane  
Ypsilanti, MI 48198
Phone: 734-221-150

Enrollment Form

Link to YCMS IB Program Enrollment Form

Principal, Charles A. Davis Jr. 

Ypsilanti Community Middle School (YCMS) is a vibrant, student-centered middle school offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP). YCMS focuses on academic excellence, global citizenship, and personal growth through critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and inquiry-based learning in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Mascot: Grizzlies

Principal, Charles A. Davis Jr. Profile

Charles A. Davis Jr. is the new principal of Ypsilanti Community Middle School. With over 25 years of experience in education, Mr. Davis brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and a Master's Degree in Educational and Organizational Leadership with a K-12 Principal endorsement from Western Michigan University.

Throughout his career, Mr. Davis has worked in various school districts, including Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor, Detroit, River Rouge, Harper Woods, and Ypsilanti. Prior to becoming a principal, he spent 10 years as a dedicated teacher, gaining valuable insights into instructional practices and student needs.

Mr. Davis has been the principal of several elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools, allowing him to cultivate a deep understanding of different grade levels and educational challenges. He is deeply passionate about education and believes in the power of building genuine relationships with students, staff, and families to create a positive school culture.

One of Mr. Davis' key focuses is on creating a safe and supportive environment at Ypsilanti Community Middle School. He believes that a nurturing and inclusive school culture is essential for fostering student achievement. To ensure continuous improvement, Mr. Davis relies on data-driven decision-making, using data to inform instruction, identify areas of growth, and celebrate student successes.

Beyond his professional life, Principal Davis is happily married to his lovely wife and is the proud father of seven children. He is the oldest of three boys and was born and raised in Queens, New York before making Michigan his home. In his free time, Mr. Davis is a self-proclaimed "Sneaker head" with a collection of hundreds of pairs of sneakers. He also enjoys sports, traveling, shopping, and most importantly, spending quality time with his family. Additionally, Mr. Davis is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, where he actively serves his community.

Associate Principal, Nina Harris Profile

Nina Harris has served Ypsilanti Community Schools since 2013. Although she has worked at every grade level, Middle School is her favorite.  She fell in love with the energy and passion that preteens have for everything in life.  

She has lived in Michigan for most of her life, except for the 10 years she taught in Virginia.   Mrs. Harris loves Michigan weather and all the great places to explore.   When Mrs. Harris is not working, she enjoys traveling, gardening, and crafting amazing decorations and gifts.   Her favorite travel destination is Hebrides in Scotland. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allowed her to explore her father’s country. 

Her role at YCMS is as a co-principal, and her focus is on Instructional Infrastructure.  More specifically,  working with staff on implementing and supporting a vision of high-quality, ambitious instruction that impacts student and teacher performance.   Mrs. Harris works to disrupt practices that are not working and create new structures that ensure success for all students.   Additionally, she supports the Special Education program at Ypsilanti Community Middle School,  ensuring that students with special needs receive the appropriate services and are in the correct classroom settings.   

Ypsilanti Community High School - IB Program

2095 Packard Rd
 Ypsilanti, MI. 48197
 734-221-1000

Principal, Dr. Chelsea Harris-Hugan

Ypsilanti Community High School (YCHS): Ypsilanti Community High School (YCHS) is a dynamic high school offering diverse programming to prepare students for college, career, and beyond. 

• ACTech (within YCHS): ACTech at YCHS provides personalized instruction in Arts, Humanities, and Logistics through an interdisciplinary approach, focusing on mastery of standards through varied methods and preparing students for college via the IB Career-Related Programme (CP). 

• STEMM Middle College (within YCHS): STEMM Middle College at YCHS blends high school and college, allowing students to earn a high school diploma and 15-60 transferable college credits through real-world STEM experiences and mentorship, typically completed in five years.

Special Services Offered in the High School Building

• STEM
• Robotics Team - State Champions, National Qualifier
• Bright Futures, EMU partner
• Communities In Schools Program
• CTE Classes offered through YCS and Washtenaw Community College
• Dual Enrollment at Washtenaw Community College
• General Education
• Learning Specialists
• Math and ELA support classes
• Mentor To Youth, EMU partner
• Restorative Justice, Restorative Practices
• School Nurse
• UM, RAHS Health Clinic
• Upward Bound, EMU partner
• YCS@Work - community internships for our upper-class student Grizzlies

• Keep up with Ypsilanti Community High School! Online: www.ycschools.us/our-schools/high-school/
• Twitter: twitter.com/ycschools_us
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/ypsilanticommunityschools/?fref=ts

SPECIAL YCHS PROGRAMS

YCHS Freshman Academy 

Link to program brochure

YCHS AC Tech

Link to program brochure

Ypsilanti STEMM Middle College

Link to Early Middle College brochure
 

Principal, Dr. Chelsea Harris-Hugan Profile

Dr. Chelsea Harris-Hugan, has been in education for over 20 years. Her years of experience as an educator spans from preschool to high school. In addition to her role as an educator, she is a mom of three adult children and a wife of over 30 years. She enjoys spending time with family and most water sport activities. 

She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University, her Master’s Degree from Wayne State University, and her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from North Central State University in Arizona. She is a lifelong learner with a passion for nurturing and educating children as well as young adults.

This year will mark her 25rd year in education. She has been a classroom teacher, literacy coach, curriculum coordinator, curriculum director K-12, and early childhood director. She was the principal of the largest elementary school in the Oak Park School District. She has served communities that were under-resourced in Detroit, Michigan, as well as schools with greater resources in Plymouth-Canton, Michigan.

Her work as a principal has been the most fulfilling. This life’s calling allows her the continued opportunity to work collaboratively with teachers daily while remaining connected to students’ learning and growing.

She is a firm believer that every child can succeed and that positive nurturing relationships between students and staff builds self-assurance in students to use their intellect, to shape their future and the future of their community and the nation.

YC2 - Ypsilanti Connected Community School

1076 Ecorse Rd. 
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
734-221-1451

Please use the ROSEWOOD AVE Entrance when visiting us in person.

Principal: Kier Ingraham

Ypsi Connected (YC²S) is an online K-8 school providing a challenging, inquiry-based virtual learning environment. YC²S aims to cultivate responsible, active citizens through project-based learning, fostering curiosity and providing community and service learning experiences.