YCS School Profiles

Beatty Early Learning Center

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

Director/Principal: Keynon Atchison

Special Services Offered in Building

Full day state and federally funded preschool programs

Special education team available to provide IEP services and to determine eligibility of students referred for special education services

Three full-time Family Support Specialists onsite to help families achieve goals and obtain resources

Part-time Nurse onsite

Many parent volunteer opportunities 

Regular family events

Monthly parent meetings

Rotary Readers read to children weekly

Foster Grandparents program

Volunteers from U of M nurses program and Washtenaw Promise mentorship program

Fluoride Varnish and Mobile Dentist Services provided

Onsite Community Behavioral Health Clinic from EMU 

Sleep/Pajama Program for students and parents

Class Size Averages 

16 children per classroom, 2 adults (16:2) 

Staff 

Instructional Staff (Full-Time Equivalent): 16

7 staff members have a teaching certificate; one additional staff member is currently enrolled in classes to obtain a teaching certificate

2 staff members have a Master’s Degree or higher

5 staff members are current or former Head Start parents

Support Staff: 10

Administrators: 1

School Communication

• http://www.ycschools.us/our-schools/pre-k-and-kindergarten/beatty-early-learning-center/

Ford Early Learning Center

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

Principal: Daniel Young

Special Services Offered in Building

General Education

• Homebound
• School Nurse
• Headstart/GSRP (4-year-olds)
• Bright Futures
• Spanish Immersion

Student Support Services

• Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE Classroom) Program
• Teacher Consultant Services
• Speech and Language
• School Social Worker
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Homebound/Hospitalized

Class Size

• Averages 17.2

Staff

• Teachers (Full-Time Equivalent): 25
• Support Staff: 26
• Administrators: 1

School Communication

• http://www.ycschools.us/our-schools/pre-k-and-kindergarten/ford-early-learning-center/

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

Special Services Offered in Building

General Education

• 6 First Grade Classrooms
• 7 Kindergarten Classrooms
• 2 Transitional Kindergarten Classrooms

Preschool

• 7 Head Start/Great Start Readiness Preschool Classrooms

Special Education

• 3 Early Childhood Special Education Classrooms
• Early On Intervention

• Speech Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Social Work
  • 2 School Social Workers
• School Nurse
• Title I Intervention
• Unified Arts
  • Art
  • Music
  • Physical Education
  • Science

School Communication

• http://www.ycschools.us/our-schools/pre-k-and-kindergarten/perry-early-learning-center/

Erickson Elementary School      

1427 Levona
Ypsilanti, Michigan 48198
734-221-1600

Special Services Offered in Building

• General Education
• Exceptional Co-curricular Classes: Art, Music, Physical Education, Science
• English Language Learner Support
• Speech Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Programs for students with disabilities
• School Social Workers
• School Nurse
• Intervention Teachers
• Science Olympiad
• Therapaws: Reading Therapy Dogs
• EMU Bright Futures Afterschool Program
• U of M Ready, Set, Go Blue
• U of M Empire for the Youth Social Skills and Academic Support
• Tutoring
• Foster Grandparents Program
• Strong School/Community Partnerships
• Parent Leadership Team
• Family Fun Curriculum Nights

Class Size Averages

• Elementary: 24.4

Staff

• Teachers (Full-Time Equivalent): 35
• Support Staff: 15
• ​Administrators: 2
  • Principal- Kelly Mickel
  • Dean of Students- Derrick Davis

School Communication

• http://www.ycschools.us/our-schools/elementary-schools/erickson-elementary/
• https://www.facebook.com/EricksonElementaryNews?directed_target_id=0&pre view=1

Principal, Kelly Mickel Profile

I grew up in New York and have now proudly been in the Ypsilanti community for nineteen years. I began my teaching career in 2004 at Kettering and Kaiser Elementary Schools as a Physical Education teacher and over the course of my tenure have taught at all levels, K-12. In 2009, I received my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University. Over the course of my career in education, I have served as a coach, teacher, athletic director and now a principal for the past four years. I am now in my third year as principal of Erickson Elementary. My expertise in project-based learning, technology integration, innovation, and leadership has enhanced the instructional initiatives and school culture at Erickson. I have high expectations and am dedicated to ensuring the highest quality education for all children. I believe positive relationships are the foundation for high-quality teaching and learning and fostering a positive school culture and climate. Welcome to the Erickson family!

Estabrook Learning Community

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

Principal, Ryan Johnson

Special Services Offered in Building

• General Education
• Speech Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Homebound
• School Social Workers
• Counselor
• School Nurse
• Learning Specialists
• After School Sports
• Grades 2-5

Class Size Averages

• Elementary: 23

Staff

• Teachers (Full-Time Equivalent): 21
• Support Staff: 16
• Administrators: 1

School Communication

http://www.ycschools.us/our-schools/elementary-schools/estabrook-elementary/

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

Special Services Offered in Building

• General Education
• School Nurse
• Bright Futures

Student Support Services:

• Elementary Resource Program
• Teacher Consultant Services
• Speech and Language
• School Social Worker
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Homebound/Hospitalized

Community Partnerships

• St. Joseph Mercy Health System (Shape Down)
• Eastern Michigan University School of Social Work
• Ann Arbor United Soccer Club
• America Reads Salvation Army
• Youth and Family Center Food Gatherers
• MI826
• YMCA

PBIS

• Grizzly Gatherings (monthly)
• All School Events (each trimester)
• Celebrate- citizenship, attendance and academics

Academic Supports

• Title I services Tutoring
• Bright Futures YMCA

After School Programs

• Ann Arbor Soccer United Club Cheerleading
• Fly Art
• Science Olympiad Girls On The Run

Young Confident Scholars
  

• Home of the Grizzly Cubs
  

Class Size Averages

• 2nd grade: 22
• 3rd grade: 21
• 4th grade: 27
• 5th grade: 20

Staff

• 24:1 (Staff:Student)

School Communication

• http://www.ycschools.us/our-schools/elementary-schools/holmes-elementary/
• https://www.facebook.com/ypsilanticommunityschools

(YIES) Ypsilanti International Elementary School

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

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. 

At YIES we offer:

• K through 12th Grade Continuum Model (PYP at YIES, MYP at WIMA, & DP at WIHI) for the International Baccalaureate Program
• Kindergarten through 5th Grade program option
• Spanish classes starting in Kindergarten through 5th grade
• Unified Arts for all grade levels: Music, P.E., Art, Spanish, and Science
• Kids Clubs: Lego , YMCA, EMU Bright Futures, and more!
• YMCA-Ann Arbor Before and After School program on site 
• A full range of Special Education Services in the least restrictive environment including, speech, physical, and occupational therapy, social worker, literacy intervention specialist; and school nurse. 
• Family and Community Environment
• Loving, Caring, and Highly Qualified Staff

Class Size Averages 

• Young 5’s, 20:1
• Kindergarten, 20:1
• 1st Grade, 25:1
• 2nd Grade, 25:1
• 3rd Grade, 25:1
• 4th Grade, 25:1
• 5th Grade, 28:1

Additional support staff are in classrooms (assignments vary per classroom); including Foster Grandparents, Paraprofessionals, and Student Teachers/Interns. 

Staff 

• Teachers (Full-Time Equivalent): 25
• Support Staff: 20
• Administrators: 1

School Communication

• http://www.ycschools.us/our-schools/pre-k-and-kindergarten/ypsilanti-international-pre-school-and-elementary/
• https://www.facebook.com/YIESIB/

Principal: Dr. Cassandra Sheriff Profile

“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” Dr. Martin Luther King

I Believe...

• The goal of education is to support children and their families by providing high-quality education and services.
• That high-quality education creates lifelong, enthusiastic learners. 
• The role of the teacher is to foster a learning environment that is safe, secure, and supportive of each individual child.
• That principals are responsible for creating, nurturing, and maintaining a healthy and productive learning environment.
• That children deserve an equal chance to learn without being prejudged.
• That parents and community members contribute to a child’s achievement and success in school and later in life.
• That knowledge for children is acquired by hands-on learning opportunities that serve the whole child.  
• That Y.I.E.S. exemplifies Young Confident Scholars!

I am delighted to be a part of Ypsilanti Community Schools.  I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work with dynamic leaders and highly qualified staff at Ypsilanti International Elementary School (Y.I.E.S.). 

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.

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. 

Special Services Offered in Building

• General Education
• School Nurse
• UM RAHS Health Clinic
• EMU Bright Futures Afterschool Program

Student Support Services

• Secondary-Level Resource Program
• Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Program for Moderate Cognitive Impairment
• Cross-Categorical Program
• Teacher Consultant Services
• Speech and Language
• School Social Worker
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Homebound/Hospitalized

• Self-contained classrooms

  • Cognitively Impaired
  • Emotionally Impaired
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • 6th grade support

Class Size Averages

• Middle School: 30

Staff 

• Teachers (Full-Time Equivalent): 28

• Support Staff: 24

• Administrators: 4

School Communication

• http://www.ycschools.us/our-schools/middle-school/ypsilanti-community-middle-school/

• https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069969706779

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

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

Student Support Services:

• Program for Mild Cognitive Impairment
• Community Based Education 
• Secondary-Level Resource Program
• Teacher Consultant Services
• Speech and Language
• School Social Worker
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• Homebound/Hospitalized
• Self Contained classrooms
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Cognitively Impaired
  • Emotionally Impaired

Class Size Averages

• High School: 26

Staff

• Administrators: 4
• Dean: 1
• Counselors: 2
• College Advisor: 1
• Teachers (Full-Time Equivalent): 62
• Support Staff: 31

Current Electives Offered

• African American Literature, Art, Band, Choir, CTE: Auto, Culinary and Nursing, Drama, Engineering, Health, Physical Education, Social Justice, Speech, and Debate, YCS@Work

Current Sports Offered

• Fall: football, boys soccer, boys tennis, girls swimming, sideline cheer, volleyball
• Winter: boys and girls basketball, boys and girls bowling, boys swimming, wrestling
• Spring: boys and girls track and field, baseball, softball, girls soccer, boys golf

School Communication

• 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 program 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.

To be Added