Royal Oak Schools Hires New Executive Director

ROYAL OAK, MI — Royal Oak Schools has a new Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction.

Addams Elementary Principal Dr. Joseph Youanes will serve as the new director after Sarah Olson left for her new role at St. Clair County RESA, the district announced.

"I'm extremely excited about the opportunity to help and support our district leadership efforts around the area of curriculum and instruction," Dr. Youanes said. "I’m also looking forward to ensuring high levels of student engagement and good instructional practices in our classrooms."

Youanes brings forth a wide variety of experiences from his leadership roles, including at the district and county leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion since he was hired into Royal Oak Schools from the Troy School District in 2013.

Youanes holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, a Central Office Administration Endorsement, and most recently, a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.), all from Oakland University.

Officials said Youanes will remain the leader at Addams until the district hires a new principal, something officials expect to do within the next month.