Loren Fantich

5th Grade Teacher

Scotch Elementary School
5389 Centerbrook Drive
West Bloomfield, MI 48322

January 16, 2021

Re: Recommendation for Thomas DeGrand

To Whom It May Concern:

I am pleased to write a letter of recommendation for Thomas DeGrand. I highly recommend

Thomas for the Assistant Principal position at West Bloomfield Middle School.

I have known Thomas for ten years. I became acquainted with him when I first began teaching at
Scotch Elementary in West Bloomfield. We spent the majority of those years on the fifth grade
team together. He guided me through my first years of teaching and was a mentor each and every
day. As a leader in fifth grade, he took on the role by always being willing to assist the new
teachers. He consistently made himself available for questions and always provided feedback. I
am amazed how Thomas is able to raise a family, earn additional degrees such as his Education
Specialist, and be able to put his heart and soul into teaching on a daily basis. I have also worked
on several leadership committees with Thomas throughout the years. During that time, I found
Thomas to be a proactive, reliable, and inspiring individual and educator. I have witnessed an
ongoing leadership growth. I am certain that the skills and abilities he has developed throughout
his educational career allows for excellence in all future endeavors.

Thomas’s personality and willingness to work with others is definitely one of his strongest assets.
When our fifth grade team would meet, he was consistently an active participant by offering
input, asking questions, and processing new ideas. Three distinct thoughts come to mind when
thinking about Thomas in the classroom. First, he has a wonderful sense of humor with the
children. He has a great rapport with all stakeholders. Secondly, he is a “team player.” He gives
and takes suggestions willingly and always with a fun spirit. He is dependable and flexible. Both
of these qualities are a necessary part of any teaching and leadership position. Thirdly, he handles
discipline with wisdom and fairness. His years of leadership opportunities have given him an air
of quiet confidence and calm.

Each year is a testament of Thomas DeGrand’s character. He is ready for any challenge at any
given moment. The manner in which he inspired his class each year was incredible. The creation
of a memorial and the ongoing fight for one of his students is something I was able to witness
first-hand and one that I will never forget. Walking into his room and seeing the culture he built
and the vision he had set in stone was truly transparent. Thomas is one of a kind and will be able
to achieve and accomplish things that can only be imagined by others. Thomas portrays qualities
of a leader during difficult times, but is a hero to all!

I recommend Thomas for the Assistant Principal position enthusiastically without reservation. I
believe he would be a valuable asset to any school. If you have any further questions with regard
to his background or qualifications, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Loren Fantich