The Woodhaven-Brownstown School District Board of Education has approved the appointment of Philip Short as the district's new Director of Curriculum.

Short steps into the role after serving as Woodhaven-Brownstown School District's Supervisor of Curriculum since 2022, bringing more than 20 years of educational experience to the position. Throughout his career, he has served as a teacher, assistant principal and district administrator, building a strong foundation in curriculum, instruction and student achievement.

As Supervisor of Curriculum, Short has led several districtwide initiatives that support student success and continuous improvement. His responsibilities have included coordinating the district's Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and Section 504 plans, while overseeing the district assessment plan, Early Middle College Program, English Language Learner (ELL) Program and intervention services.

"Phil's passion for teaching and learning, collaborative leadership style, and deep understanding of our district make him an outstanding choice for this role," said Superintendent Matthew Salah. "I am confident he will continue to build upon the great work already taking place across WBSD while supporting our staff and students in reaching even greater levels of success. We look forward to his continued leadership and the positive impact he will have on our district."

Prior to joining the district's Curriculum Department, Short served as Assistant Principal at Woodhaven High School from 2013 to 2022. During his tenure, he oversaw student attendance, coordinated the school's improvement efforts, led teacher evaluation and development, and supervised Maple Grove Alternative High School.

Since joining Woodhaven-Brownstown School District in 2008, Short has served the district in a variety of leadership roles. He began as an English Language Arts, American History and SAT Prep teacher at Woodhaven High School before becoming assistant principal in 2013. In that role, he provided instructional leadership, coordinated school improvement efforts, supported teacher development, managed student attendance and oversaw Maple Grove Alternative High School. His experience in both the classroom and school administration has helped prepare him to lead the district's curriculum and instructional programs. 

Short earned a Master of Science in Education Administration from Purdue University Calumet and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Wayne State University. He also holds a Michigan School Administrator Certificate, Michigan Teaching Certificate, and Highly Qualified certifications in English and History.

As Director of Curriculum, Short will provide leadership for the district's instructional programs, curriculum development, assessment initiatives and professional learning, while continuing to support innovative practices that enhance teaching and learning across the district.

“Over 18 years in the district, I know the extraordinary dedication of our community up close,” Short said. “Serving as Director of Curriculum is a true honor, and I look forward to partnering with our talented educators to support every student's growth, advance diverse learning pathways, and drive academic achievement across WBSD." 

Woodhaven-Brownstown School District is committed to providing an engaging, innovative and supportive learning environment where every student is empowered to reach their full potential. Under Short's leadership, the Curriculum Department will continue its focus on instructional excellence, student growth and preparing learners for success.