Reverse the decision to defund Dean White's position

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The Issue

Dean John D. White has been more than just an administrator at Renaissance High School; he has been a mentor, a guide, and an advocate for countless students. For many of us, Dean White is not just a name but a source of unwavering support and dedication. His commitment to student success is unparalleled, and he consistently puts students first in all situations. Losing him would mean losing an integral part of our school community.

For years, Dean White has tirelessly worked to create a positive, inclusive, and nurturing environment at Renaissance High School. His influence extends beyond academics, fostering an environment where students feel valued and supported. Dean White's presence has been instrumental in shaping the culture and community of our school, making it a place where students thrive.

The decision to eliminate funding for Dean White’s position is not just a loss for him, but for every student, teacher, and staff member who relies on his leadership and vision. This cut threatens to undermine the very fabric of our school community and the progress that has been made under his tenure.

We request that the school administration and funding bodies reconsider this decision. Investing in leadership that fosters student success is crucial. Keeping Dean White should be a priority, recognizing his profound impact and the relationships he has built over the years.

Supporting Dean White is investing in the future of the students of Renaissance High School. Please join us in advocating for the restoration of funding for Dean John D. White's position. Sign this petition to retain a mentor, advocate, and leader who has become essential to our school’s success.

The Decision Makers

Nikolai Vitti
Superintendent - Detroit Public Schools Community District
Responded
The District uses a staffing formula that determines which positions are funded and allocated to schools based on factors such as student enrollment and school type. Under the District's staffing model, Exam and Application Schools, including Renaissance High School, are not allocated Dean positions through the standard District staffing formula because those schools have more flexibility in selecting and dismissing students based on student performance, attendance, and behavior than neighborhood schools. However, principals have the authority and flexibility to use school-level funds to purchase additional positions beyond those allocated by the District, including positions such as Attendance Agents, Teachers, or Deans. In previous years, Principal Stroughter has used school-level funds to fund a Dean position. For the 2026–2027 school year, she made the decision to allocate those funds differently and, as a result, she did not purchase a Dean position. This is her decision, not the decision of Central Office. Principal Stroughter would need to change her mind in funding the Dean position through her budget to reinstate Dean White as the school’s Dean next school year. Please note that Dean White will remain employed by the District and will be assigned to a vacant Dean position at another school. Thank you again for your advocacy, and I hope that my email response clarifies the status of Dean White’s position at Renaissance. Sincerely, Nikolai P. Vitti, Ed.D. Superintendent Detroit Public Schools Community District [Note: The Change.org Community Connection Team reaches out to decision makers to let them know about petitions in their community and to help facilitate engagement with supporters. The above was an email response we received regarding this petition.]
Verynda Stroughter
Verynda Stroughter
Principal, Renaissance High School

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates