Dear Chateaux Elementary Families,

It’s a great day in the Hills!  Welcome back to school!  My name is J. Bywater, and I am honored to continue serving as your principal as I enter my second year at Chateaux Elementary School. Last year was filled with many successes, and I am excited to build on them and work together to make this year even better. 

I am excited to begin working with our new superintendent, Dr. Brown, who brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our district. Under Dr. Brown's leadership, we are launching several new initiatives designed to enhance your child’s educational experience.

One of our key focuses this year is the implementation of a restructured intervention period. This new intervention period is designed to ensure that all students' academic needs are met, whether they require additional support or are ready for more advanced challenges. 

In addition to academic improvements, we are also placing a greater emphasis on student recognition and celebrations. We believe that acknowledging our students’ hard work, achievements, and positive behavior is essential in fostering a supportive and motivating school environment.

For our new families, I would like to tell you a little about me.  I graduated Cum Laude from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor's in Education, Summa Cum Laude with a Master's in Education Leadership from Eastern Michigan University, and I have a Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard's Graduate School of Education.  I have 17 years of education experience, including the past six years as a principal.  Some of my interests include basketball, Detroit sports, fantasy basketball, grilling, Halloween, haunted houses and anything scary, history, Michigan State Spartans, pickleball, poker, listening to Prince, and watching Star Wars.  However, my absolute favorite things involve spending time with my wife Stefani and our five kids.

Please mark your calendars for the first day of school on Wednesday, August 21st.  We are eager to welcome your children back and begin another year of learning, growth, and fun.  Thank you for your continued support and partnership. I am looking forward to another fantastic year at Chateaux Elementary!

Here's to a great 2024-2025 school year!

J. Bywater

Principal

Chateaux Elementary