Mrs. Nicole Samuel

I am honored to serve as the Principal of Bunche Preparatory Academy, bringing with me 28 years of dedicated experience within Detroit Public Schools. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to building strong school communities, supporting teachers, and ensuring that all students receive the high-quality education they deserve. My eight years as an Assistant Principal have further strengthened my passion for instructional leadership and student achievement. 

My academic journey reflects my deep commitment to education. I earned my Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and continued my studies at Wayne State University, where I completed a Bachelor of Science in Education, a Master of Arts in Education, a Certification as an Educational Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction, and a K–12 Administration and Supervision Certification. I am also proud to be National Board Certified in Science, a credential I have maintained since 2008. 

My leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that success is a shared responsibility among students, staff, and parents. I believe that when we work together, we create a collaborative community where everyone plays a purposeful role in the educational process. 

At Bunche Preparatory Academy, I am committed to fostering an environment where teachers inspire curiosity, model lifelong learning, and provide students with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. Through intentional collaboration, high expectations, and a unified commitment to excellence, I strive to empower our students to develop a love for learning, discover their unique purpose, and reach their fullest potential. 

I look forward to collaborating with each of you, listening to your hopes for your children, and partnering with you to ensure a successful and joyful school year. Together, we will continue to make Bunche Preparatory Academy a place where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to excel. 

Educationally Yours,  

Mrs. Nicole Samuel, Principal 

Ms. Kierra Evans

Greetings Bunche Families,  

My name is Ms. Kierra Evans, and I am your Assistant Principal at Ralph J. Bunche Preparatory Academy. I'm proud to say that I attended multiple DPS throughout my elementary and middle school career. I am a graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy, with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University. I have spent the last twelve years servicing students in Detroit and throughout the Metro Detroit area, where I’ve specialized in curriculum development, data-driven instruction, and teacher mentoring. 

I believe that EVERY student has the right to learn in a safe and clean learning environment. My goals for Bunche are to improve our school's performance by increasing expertise in data-driven instruction, professional development, improved attendance, and creating a positive school culture that empowers all educational stakeholders. 

Educationally yours,  

Kierra D. Evans M.Ed 

Mr. Eric Crume

Eric Crume, a proud Detroit native and graduate of Detroit Central High School (Class of 2011), brings passion, leadership, and teamwork from the field to the classroom. After earning a full football scholarship to Syracuse University, Crume became a four-year letterman and earned his bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Studies. His dedication and discipline led him to play professionally in the NFL for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Carolina Panthers.

Following his football career, Crume transitioned into education—continuing his commitment to mentorship and youth development. Now in his seventh year in education and his fourth year as a dean, Mr. Crume begins his first year at Bunche Preparatory Academy. He is driven by a belief in the potential of every student and strives to build a school culture rooted in respect, perseverance, and excellence—values that reflect both his athletic and educational journey.