Al Wood

Alvin Leron Wood, a distinguished educator, retired in 2017 from the Detroit Public Schools Community District. For 37 years he was a tireless champion for the students, and an administrator who was committed to support staff in the development and implementation of instructional initiatives, strategies and programs that resulted in improved student and teacher performance.

Prior to retirement, Alvin Wood established a rich history of educational experiences. In addition to serving as the Senior Executive Director of School Support for Detroit Schools, he served as Deputy Network Leader of Operations, and Assistant Superintendent of Schools at the Central Office level.

Alvin Wood also successfully served the Detroit Public Schools in the following positions: Principal - Columbus Middle School and Sampson Webber Elementary Middle School, Assistant Principal at Denby Technical & Preparatory High School, Dean of Students at Southwestern High School, Cooperative Office Education Coordinator at Kettering High School, and finally served as a successful Business Education Teacher at Kettering High School and Von Stuben Middle School.

After retiring from the Detroit Public Schools Community District, Alvin has continued to support numerous principals within the district and out of state as a Leadership Coach whose basic goal is to improve student achievement and raise standardized test scores along with understanding how to be a successful educational leader in these challenging times. 

Ronnie E. Phillips’, an outstanding educator who had a sweeping influence on students in Detroit Public Schools. His character, passion and knowledge were impactful for students, teachers, administrators, and the community he served. His style of leadership has showed an increase in student achievement, collaborative culture, and parent involvement.

In- addition to serving as superintendent of the Academy of Southfield, he served as Principal- Chandler Park Academy, Cody High School, and Joy Middle School. He also severed in the following positions: Adjunct Professor Wayne State University, Assistant Principal at Finney High School, Dean of Students at Redford and Finney High school, Counselor at Denby and Cass Technical High School and finally teacher at Bow Elementary School and Denby High School.

At the University of Illinois, Mr. Phillips was a three-time all-American in track and field. This experience helped him coach several all- city and all-state track champions in the state of Michigan. He has also been a participant in Governor Granholm’s leadership task force and served on numerous leadership organizations. In addition, he has written three books and numerous articles.

Mr. Phillips is currently working as an educational consultant in the state of Michigan. His focus has been to aid school principals with improving school organization and performance. His ultimate goal is to equip school leaders with the fundamental skills to become exceptional educational leaders.