Green Elementary to be Renamed After Retiring Principal Kathy Sheiko

Kathy Sheiko thought that she was coming to the podium at the final West Bloomfield School District board of education meeting of the school year to accept a star certificate for her 26 years of service as principal.

The board surprised Sheiko as well as almost everyone in attendance at the packed meeting in the media center by moving to rename Green as Sheiko Elementary School.

"I drove to your building every morning for three children because … what I found was a loving environment with a principal who was at the front door, driving traffic … knowing the parents names, and knowing how to direct the parents out the door, including myself," said Vice President Bruce Tobin. "We all knew what the expectations were in your building and it went a long way. We have been the beneficiaries of 26 years of greatness."

Sheiko was stunned and thrilled, joined by family including her husband, Paul, and children.

“I have words prepared for my star award, but never in my wildest dreams did I ever believe that I would have so many wonderful people in the audience from my past and present,” Sheiko said amid tears. “To name the school after me just completely blows me away. It’s an honor that was certainly unexpected … and I am truly grateful.”