NEWS RELEASE: Mitchell Named New RMS Principal, Williams RHS Girls Basketball Coach

Roseville Community Schools is proud to announce Michael Mitchell, Ed.D., as the new principal of Roseville Middle School beginning this fall. In addition, Aja Williams has been named head coach of the Roseville High School Girls Basketball Program, moving up from junior varsity.

Mitchell began his teaching career in 1998. He spent the next ten years teaching science and social studies at several schools, including St. Juliana, Regina High School, and Lake Orion Community Schools’ Learning Options High School. In 2005, he joined Arts Academy in the Woods, where he taught a variety of science and social studies courses. For the past twelve years, he has served as the Academy’s principal/lead administrator, overseeing all academic, operational, and fiscal functions. Mitchell holds an associate degree from Macomb Community College, as well as a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and a master’s degree in secondary science education, both from Wayne State University. In 2014, Mitchell received his Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Walden University.

Mitchell said he is excited to be an active part of a team that puts students first. “I have been consistently impressed with Roseville Community Schools’ supportive staff and programs that help students achieve their full potential academically and socially. I bring an experienced, consistent, and caring presence for our students, staff, and community members. I look forward to meeting everyone and hearing how I can help Roseville Community Schools empower students for a lifetime of success.”

“What stands out most about Dr. Mitchell is his passion for all kids,” said Superintendent Mark Blaszkowski. “His experience overseeing students from middle school to high school as a principal brings a perspective that will help our students prepare for the next level.”

Mitchell takes over for Chris LaFeve, who is leaving Roseville for a position closer to his home. “We appreciate all the hard work Mr. LaFeve did for our district over the years. We wish him the best of luck in his hometown and hope he enjoys spending more time with his young family.”

Aja Williams, a 2013 Roseville High School graduate, returns to the court where she excelled as a player. During her RHS career, she was a four-year varsity player and two-year captain. After battling back from injuries, she played two years at St. Clair County Community College, helping the team make a Final Four national championship run during the 2013–2014 season. The following year, she served as team captain and earned the team’s Leadership Achievement Award.

In the ten years since college, Williams has coached a variety of teams. She has coached the AAU Midwest Athletic Basketball team, served as assistant coach/statistician for the Madison High School boys varsity basketball team, and last season returned to Roseville as the JV girls basketball coach, leading the team to a 13–3 record. Williams said she wants Roseville High School to be a place where young girls dream of playing. “I plan on instilling a will to win, building a sense of family, and teaching the girls to put their best foot forward no matter the situation.”

Roseville High School Athletic Director Keith Marzec said he is excited to see where Williams can take the program. “She did a great job as JV coach last year, building strong relationships and developing the skills needed to be successful. She has a lot of coaching experience, and as an alum, I believe she will continue to grow the success of the program.”

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