United Way for Southeastern Michigan Issues the Following Statement Regarding Robert Bobb's Plan to Close Osborn High School

DETROIT, March 30, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Detroit Public Schools' Emergency Financial Manager Robert Bobb today released a list of schools slated for closure, as a part of the district’s Renaissance 2012 Plan. Because of the poor physical condition of the building, Osborn High School is on the list and scheduled to close in the summer of 2012.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan, along with the leadership teams and community partners of the four small schools that operate at the site of the former Osborn High School will examine every option and explore every opportunity to find a new home for the schools. In fact, we agree with Robert Bobb that the facility that currently houses the schools is in poor condition and not suitable for continued use.

Since 2008 United Way for Southeastern Michigan, in partnership with dedicated principals, teachers, and community partners, has invested in the transformation of Osborn from a failing school that graduated fewer than 60 percent of students, to a campus of high-performing schools that graduate more than 80 percent of students and prepare students for success in college—within five years.

After one year of planning, Osborn High School ceased operation and in September 2009 four small schools began operation, housed in the same building as the former Osborn High School.  The small schools at Osborn are: Osborn Upper School of Global Communications and Culture, Osborn University of Science, Mathematics & Technology, Osborn Evergreen Academy of Design & Technology, and Osborn College Preparatory Academy.

These schools are on track to achieve their goal, with chronic absences reduced by 25 percent, and early indicators showing promising results. The principals, teachers and students of these schools are motivated, inspired and committed to succeed. More than just programs, the small schools at Osborn are communities of individuals and organizations committed to the success of students.  

We are working with Robert Bobb and our partners in the Osborn community on a solution for the continuation of the good work that is underway at these schools.  

To learn more about the small schools at Osborn and other turnaround schools, visit us online at www.uwsem.org/highperformingschools. You can access today’s announcement by Robert Bobb on the district’s website at www.detroitk12.org.

SOURCE United Way for Southeastern Michigan

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