A month of unity, celebration, and forward momentum across the district.
October was filled with powerful reminders of what makes Saginaw Public Schools a district on the rise — students showcasing innovation, staff receiving honors, community partnerships deepening, and leadership continuing to move the district forward with transparency and pride.
Schools Rank Top In The State
Saginaw Public Schools continues to shine statewide as Handley Elementary School and the Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy (SASA) have both been recognized among Michigan’s top-performing schools in the newly released 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings.
Handley Elementary — already a two-time National Blue Ribbon School and one of the district’s designated gifted and talented schools — earned the #17 ranking among all elementary schools in Michigan.
Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy, a selective 6–12 school for gifted and talented students, ranked #5 among Michigan middle schools in the 2026 statewide rankings. Earlier this year, SASA’s high school program was also ranked #4 in Michigan and #83 in the nation.
District Leadership & Fiscal Progress
Saginaw Public Schools continues to demonstrate strong financial management, earning a major win this month through the refinancing of district bonds — a strategic move that reduces interest costs and frees up future resources for classrooms and facilities.
Power of a Promise
Superintendent Dr. Ramont M. Roberts also represented the district at the Saginaw Promise fundraiser luncheon "Power of a Promise", where he added to a conversation about collaboration, community investment, and the bright future being built for Saginaw’s youth.
Saginaw High Legendary Coaches
Coach T
During October’s Board of Education meeting, trustees honored Marshall "Coach T" Thomas, a beloved educator and mentor by naming the Saginaw Middle School gymnasium in his memory.
“It’s entirely appropriate,” said Treasurer Ruth Ann Knapp, “that the place where he spent so much of his time is now named after him.”
“To know him is to love him,” added Vice President Janet Nash, capturing the emotion that filled the room.
Trustees Mattie Thompson, Joyce Seals, and Jasmine Calhoun each shared words of gratitude, reflecting on his lasting influence on students and the community.
Coach Durrett
Saginaw Public Schools proudly celebrates former Saginaw High School football coach Don Durrett, who will be inducted into the Saginaw County Sports Hall of Fame on November 2, joining two other district icons—Lakisha Freeman Parker of Arthur Hill and Anthony Roberson of Saginaw High.
Durrett, who became head coach of the Trojans in 1991, led one of the most dominant eras in Saginaw High football history. His leadership culminated in a 1999 Division 2 State Championship, where the Trojans defeated Birmingham Brother Rice 14–7 in a game that remains a proud milestone for the school and community.
Over 12 seasons, Durrett compiled 91 wins, the most by any football coach in Saginaw High history.
Homecoming & Fieldhouse Pride
On Friday, October 3, the Saginaw United Phoenix took the field for the first time on their brand-new state-of-the-art football stadium and delivered a performance worthy of the moment, defeating Bay City Central 28–6 in front of a homecoming crowd that packed the stands — and then some.
The day began with a parade followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Saginaw Public Schools officials, marking the official opening of the district’s new athletics complex. Families, alumni, and community members filled every seat and lined the grassy slopes surrounding the field to witness a night years in the making. The evening featured a fireworks show.
Career & Opportunity Events
This month Saginaw United High School hosted the school's first-ever College and Career Fair.
Students were able to explore opportunities from dozens of colleges, universities and employers as well as military partners in our new Fieldhouse.
Visit our Facebook page and search "#CollegeAndCareerReady" to see pictures and videos.
Spotlights
Tiffany Pruitt, Executive Director of Human Resources & Labor Relations, received the 2025 YWCA Great Lakes Bay Region Women of Achievement Award in Arts & Education. Her 20-year journey with the district reflects leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to empowering others.
Community Connections
The district partnered with First Student for thew 2nd Annual Spook-Tacular Bus Bash on Sunday, Oct. 26 at Saginaw United High School. The event featured free candy, hotdogs, music and entertainment.
Visit our Facebook page to see pictures and videos from the event.
Looking Ahead
As SPSD moves into November, the district will continue sharing stories of growth and achievement through its new web-based newsletter format — allowing real-time updates, easier access, and a stronger connection with families.
There is a District-Wide Professional Development Day on November 4.
Parent Conferences for elementary students on November 5-7.
Parent Conferences for middle and high school students on November 12.
School Board Briefing Session at 5:30 p.m. on November 12.
Boys basketball practice begins November 12.
Girls basketball practice begins November 19.
School Board Action Meeting at 5:30 p.m. on November 19.
Thanksgiving break for students is November 26-28.
Stay tuned for:
Gymnasium naming ceremony announcement
Winter athletics schedule/coverage
Building-level highlights from our social media liaisons
Follow Us
For daily updates, photos, and district news:
Facebook: @SaginawPublicSchools
Website: www.spsd.net