February 20, 2024
Oakland University Executive Vice-President of Academic Affairs and Provost Dr. Britt Rios-Ellis and School of Education and Human Services Dean Dr. Jon Margerum-Leys, joined Judeen Bartos and Dr. Latacha King from the OU Public School Academies Office on a visit to Caniff Liberty Academy (CLA) on November 28, 2023. The visit included a tour of the facility and classrooms, and conversation with Superintendent Dr. Azra Ali, Principal Tom Kozak and Dean of Students Sultaan Alasad.
The school leaders shared what makes CLA special and highlighted the achievements and successes of students and their teachers. The school, which is in the heart of Hamtramck, is known for its high percentage of English Language Learners (60%), which presents unique instructional challenges. Dr. Ali spoke of their use of high dosage tutoring and extracurricular activities that are geared to help the students and their families learn English and also adapt to a new culture. The school has strong ties to its community, and works with intention to assist their families in feeling a part of that community. CLA hosts Iftar and Eid dinners and holiday events for its Muslim population and has recently done the same to welcome their Ukrainian families displaced by the war with Russia. Oakland University representatives were impressed by the passion and care the staff at CLA showed for the students, and their tireless efforts to help them reach their goals.
Caniff Liberty Academy, which serves grades PK-8, has been chartered by Oakland University since 2012. Enrollment is 540 K-8 students with an additional 16 pre-kindergarten students. The Academy was approved in December by the Oakland University Board of Trustees for a new 5-year contract to expire in 2029.