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Welcome

Dear Dolphin Families,

Welcome to Springfield Plains.  

Our mission is to Love. Learn. Lead. 

We look forward to partnering with you to provide a wonderful school year for your child.  As always, please reach out with any questions or clarifications.  

Sincerely,

Matthew Gifford
Principal  
 

Welcome to Springfield Plains Elementary

The story of Springfield Plains began in the fall of 1994 when we first opened our doors to students under the leadership of Dr. Sharon Devereaux. Just six years later Springfield Plains was nationally recognized as a National Blue Ribbon Award School. Clarkston’s Culture thrives at Springfield Plains. Students are empowered thinkers, empowered learners, empowered leaders and positive contributors to a global society.

Each child begins to write their story of learning the moment they step through the doorways at Springfield Plains. Under the thoughtful guidance of teachers and through positive partnerships with families each child’s story unfolds. Relationships are important at Springfield Plains, and most importantly, children are loved here.

We believe in fostering an environment where everyone is valued and trusted. Our mission is simple. Love. Learn. Lead.

Welcome to Springfield Plains.

Mr. Matthew Gifford

Mr. Gifford speaks to students

I am a 1997 graduate of Clarkston High School. I attended Michigan State University in pursuit of a finance degree. After completing a capital planning internship with DaimlerChrysler, I decided I wanted to impact the lives of children. I transferred to Oakland University to finish my teaching certification. I was hired to teach third grade at Springfield Plains, where I taught until August 2015, when I became the principal of the school. In June 2008, I completed my master's degree in Reading and Language Arts with a Literacy Specialist endorsement and in June 2017, I earned my Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership degree. Both degrees are from Oakland University. I currently reside in Clarkston, Michigan with my wife Kelly, three sons; Ryan, Will and Zack, and our Weimaraner, Sky.