The end of another school year is upon us! With just over two weeks left at the time of this writing, it is hard to believe we are at graduation time again. Our 55 graduating seniors of the class of 2023 will walk across the stage on Sunday, May 28th. I would like to wish our graduating seniors congratulations and best wishes in their future endeavors. I would also like to thank all of those individuals who supported them along the way.
Now that we are planning for graduations, year-end projects, finals and other celebrations; it reminds us that the summer break is indeed near. As we finish the 2022-23 school year, I want to thank everyone for the many ways that you support the District. Your continued support directly affects the students in a positive way. Our students inspire and make us proud every day. Their efforts and accomplishments are proof of the dedication of our parents, staff and community.
As residents, you support the district through your tax dollars and attendance at special events and athletic contests. We were so grateful to see the results of our special election on May 9, 2023. The new Capital Project levy question passed by a margin of 65% YES to 35% NO. This new levy will go into effect with property taxes payable in 2024 and funds available in fiscal year 2025. This levy is applicable for 10 years. Murray County Central has obviously benefited financially from our families and communities. With this support, we are able to provide for identified needs of our students and community. We also have benefited from the many volunteers over the years that are a vital part of the education system at MCC. We thank all of you!
As the 2022-2023 school year comes to a close, we are actively preparing for the start of school for 2023-2024. Our back to school registration will take place completely online for 2023-24. There will not be in-person registration days like we have had in the past. The first day of school next year will be on Tuesday, September 5th for grades 7-12 and Thursday September 7th for grades K-6.
We are also planning for several FREE summer enrichment activities that students can sign up for including Kindergarten Camp, Cribbage, Catapults, Social Emotional Learning, STEM (moto cars/balloon boat/rocket), Summer Reading Boost, Credit Recovery, and more! Funds for these activities are provided by COVID relief dollars that must be used for summer enrichment activities. Students and parents have been or will be contacted on how to sign up for all of these opportunities. Summer meals will not be offered this year due to a change in our summer food qualifying status but starting next fall, ALL students in grades K-12 will be receiving free meals based on state law passed this legislative session.
While we are always proud of our accomplishments, we know that there is always room for improvement. When decisions are being made, we are always looking out for the best interest of our students to drive this decision making process. We will build upon our strengths, examine current practices and make changes necessary to move the district forward. Preparation for the future includes initiatives and plans to improve our students’ academic performance through our ongoing strategic planning process which is the blueprint to improve the quality of education for MCC students.
As stakeholders, you trust that the school board and administration not only ensure a high-quality education for all students but that we are also responsible stewards of your tax dollars. Your continued support of the district propositions over the years and of our strategic planning initiatives confirms your belief in us. We collectively pledge to continue our efforts of financial transparency and accountability to you.
On behalf of the board, the administration, the faculty, and our support staff, we thank you for your continued interest in our efforts. Parental and community support are hallmarks of a healthy and growing school system. Thank you and have a great summer! In education,
Joe Meyer
Superintendent, Murray County Central Public Schools