Under a sunny sky and with strong community support, Huron Valley Schools officially celebrated its new Administrative Services Center on June 1 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and dedication honoring former Superintendent Dr. Nancy Coratti.
Approximately 100 community members, staff, retirees, board members, and district leaders gathered at the new facility, located in a renovated space within Milford High School, to mark the occasion.
The event celebrated a significant milestone for the district, which recently relocated its administrative offices from their longtime home of nearly 60 years. During the ceremony, Superintendent Dr. Paul Salah described the new center as a symbol of "growth, progress, and thoughtful planning for the future of our school community."
"This is about more than simply moving into a different space," Salah said. "It's about creating a place that reflects the pride we have in our school district and provides a warm, welcoming first impression for future Huron Valley Schools families."
The move was identified during planning for the district's 2019 and 2024 bond projects as a way to better utilize available space at Milford High School while enhancing collaboration among central office departments. Salah noted that the project aligns closely with the district's Strategic Plan 2.0, allowing the district to make better use of existing facilities, reduce its overall footprint, and continue being thoughtful stewards of community resources.
"When people walk through these doors behind me, we want them to immediately see the professionalism, care, and commitment that define our schools," Salah said.
District leaders also emphasized that the modernized facility will help attract and retain talented employees by providing a professional and collaborative work environment for staff members who support students and families across the district.
"When you see what we have in here, you're going to realize that we're going to be able to continue to attract the best and brightest talent to our schools, who will have a very professional place to work, as they deserve," School Board President Laura Dodd added. "I'm proud to be here. I'm proud all of you are here, and I'm excited for you to see inside."
Following remarks from district leaders, Dr. Coratti was recognized for her more than four decades of service to Huron Valley Schools. Her career began in 1974 and included roles as principal, assistant superintendent of instruction, deputy superintendent, and superintendent. In recognition of her lasting contributions to the district, the new Administrative Services Center was dedicated in her name.
"When you walk in, you're going to see a dedication plaque and a beautiful picture of Dr. Nancy Coratti," School Board Treasurer Tom Wiseman told attendees. "The Huron Valley Schools Administrative Services Center is dedicated in your honor in recognition of your decades of service, leadership, and commitment to Huron Valley Schools and our community."
Wiseman also thanked the community for supporting district improvements through bond initiatives.
"When you look at a building like this and the work we're doing in our middle schools, as well as the improvements we've made in our high schools and elementary schools, it's not us—it's you who made all of this happen," he said.
Then, to a round of applause from attendees, Dr. Coratti joined district leaders for the ceremonial ribbon cutting, officially opening the facility.
Guests then toured the center, exploring modern workspaces, meeting rooms, and public service areas designed to bring district departments together under one roof. The updated facility reflects the district's commitment to efficiency, collaboration, and service to students, families, and staff.
Another highlight of the evening was the announcement of a new time capsule that will be placed at the site. District officials said the capsule will preserve artifacts and memories from this important chapter in Huron Valley Schools history for future generations.
The celebration served as both a tribute to the district's past and a look toward its future, recognizing the continued support of voters through the district's bond programs.
As visitors explored the building and shared memories of the former administration offices, the evening was marked by a sense of pride, progress, and optimism for the future of Huron Valley Schools—continuing the district's mission of "inspiring and building futures," not only for students, but also for the staff members who help make that mission possible every day.
