Detroit, Michigan, October 24, 2025
The Detroit Public Schools Community District is moving forward with reconstruction of Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy and Phoenix Academy under its $700 million Facilities Master Plan. The projects will deliver modern classrooms, advanced STEM labs, upgraded athletic facilities, energy-efficient designs and improved safety systems. The district is engaging the community for input on potential new names for the rebuilt schools to better reflect local values and mission. The new buildings are planned to open in the fall, and district leaders emphasize collaboration with families to ensure the facilities meet educational and community needs.
Detroit, Michigan – The Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is making strides in the reconstruction of two schools, Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy and Phoenix Academy, as part of its $700 million Facilities Master Plan. These projects aim to modernize educational spaces, incorporating energy-efficient designs and enhanced safety features to benefit students and staff upon completion. Additionally, the district is considering potential name changes for the rebuilt facilities, with community input being sought to determine new identities that better reflect the schools’ missions and values.
The Facilities Master Plan, introduced in 2022, outlines a comprehensive strategy to address decades of underinvestment in school infrastructure. It includes rebuilding, reopening, or demolishing certain schools to provide students with safe, modern, and high-quality learning environments. The plan encompasses five new school builds, including Pershing High School, Cody High School, Southeastern High School Annex, Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy, and Phoenix Academy. The new buildings for Phoenix and Paul Robeson Malcolm X are scheduled to open in the fall of 2027. During engagement sessions for Phoenix, community members expressed interest in renaming the school, citing the need for a fresh start and identity. The district is currently gathering suggestions and feedback to finalize the new names.
These initiatives are part of a broader effort by DPSCD to revitalize and modernize its facilities, ensuring that students have access to state-of-the-art learning environments. The district continues to engage with the community to ensure that the rebuilt schools meet the needs and expectations of the families they serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Facilities Master Plan?
The Facilities Master Plan is a $700 million initiative introduced by the Detroit Public Schools Community District in 2022. It aims to address decades of underinvestment in school infrastructure by rebuilding, reopening, or demolishing certain schools to provide students with safe, modern, and high-quality learning environments.
Which schools are being rebuilt under the Facilities Master Plan?
The Facilities Master Plan includes rebuilding five schools: Pershing High School, Cody High School, Southeastern High School Annex, Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy, and Phoenix Academy.
When are the new buildings for Phoenix and Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy scheduled to open?
The new buildings for Phoenix and Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy are scheduled to open in the fall of 2027.
Is the district considering renaming the rebuilt schools?
Yes, the district is considering potential name changes for the rebuilt facilities. During engagement sessions for Phoenix, community members expressed interest in renaming the school to reflect a fresh start and new identity. The district is currently gathering suggestions and feedback to finalize the new names.
How is the community involved in the decision-making process?
The district is actively engaging with the community to gather input on potential name changes for the rebuilt schools. This includes holding engagement sessions and seeking feedback to ensure that the new names align with the values and expectations of the families they serve.
Key Features of the Reconstructed Schools
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Modern Classrooms | Equipped with the latest technology and designed to foster collaborative learning environments. |
| Advanced Science and Technology Labs | State-of-the-art facilities to support hands-on learning and innovation in STEM fields. |
| Enhanced Athletic Facilities | Modernized sports complexes to promote physical education and extracurricular activities. |
| Energy-Efficient Designs | Incorporation of sustainable building practices to reduce environmental impact and operational costs. |
| Improved Safety Features | Upgraded security systems and building layouts to ensure the safety of students and staff. |
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