Overview
Lake Orion Community Schools is a highly-rated public school district located in Lake Orion, Michigan. It educates over 6,800 students across 13 schools, including one primary high school, one alternative high school, three middle schools, and six elementary schools. The district is known for its commitment to fostering a well-rounded and inclusive educational environment. Additionally, it employs 442 staff members and has an estimated annual revenue of $99.5 million. The district has experienced a 5% growth in its workforce over the past year, indicating an expansion and possibly increased demand for its educational services.
Governance and Leadership
The district is governed by a Board of Education with key members:
- President: Danielle Bresett (term ends December 31, 2024)
- Vice-President: Heather Sinawi (term ends December 31, 2026)
- Treasurer: Jake Singer (term ends December 31, 2026)
- Secretary: Susan Flaherty (term ends December 31, 2024)
- Trustees: Nate Butki (certification of November 2024 election), Birgit McQuiston (term ends December 31, 2024), and Scott Taylor (term ends December 31, 2024)
The leadership is spearheaded by Superintendent Heidi Mercer, who was appointed in July 2024 and has been with the district since 1996, bringing extensive experience to her role.
Key Contacts
- Andrea Curtis: Director of Business & Finance
- Natalie Kulikowski: Director of Special Education
- Mark Snyder: Director of Communications and Marketing
- Kristin Sliwinski: Principal
Academic and Community Initiatives
Lake Orion Community Schools actively participates in initiatives that promote educational excellence and community involvement:
- Manufacturing Day Visits: These provide students with practical learning experiences through visits to industries like Brose and Ascent Aerospace.
- Board of Education Meetings: Held regularly to discuss district affairs and policies.
Financial Overview
The district's financial structure is largely dependent on the state's School Aid Fund and local property taxes, with transparency in budget allocations. It also receives grant awards from federal, state, and local sources to support various educational programs. Key financial metrics include a revenue per employee of approximately $225,000.
Educational Performance
The district's test scores, college readiness metrics, and state rankings are indicators of its educational quality. These metrics highlight competitive positioning against peer institutions and identify areas for potential partnerships or academic collaborations.
Online and Social Media Presence
The district maintains a robust online presence with official pages on social media platforms such as [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/LakeOrionCommunitySchools/), YouTube, and Instagram. These platforms serve as channels for engaging with the community and disseminating information about district-wide events and initiatives.
Competitive Landscape
Lake Orion Community Schools faces competition from several educational entities:
1. Shiawassee Regional Education Service District (RESD): With an annual revenue of $29.9 million and 151 employees, the district has seen an 8% growth.
2. Bordine Nursery: Revenue stands at $9.1 million with 56 employees and an 8% growth rate.
3. St Sebastian School: This institution has $17.6 million in revenue, employs 98 people, and has experienced a 31% growth rate.
4. The Roeper School and Mason Consolidated Schools also contribute to the competitive educational landscape in Michigan.
Strategic Implications
Given its financial health and expanding staff, Lake Orion Community Schools has opportunities for partnerships to sustain growth, enhance educational offerings, and increase community engagement. Embracing industry trends and technological advancements could further bolster the district's strategic initiatives, helping maintain a competitive edge amid challenges in the educational landscape.
