Parents, guardians and MCC community members:
The end of another school year is upon us! With just over a week left at the time of this writing, it is hard to believe we are at graduation time again. Although this year was more “normal”, we still experienced many challenges both pandemic related and otherwise. Even with the challenges, we experienced much success and many reasons to celebrate another school year. Now that we are planning for graduations, year-end projects, finals and celebrations; it reminds us that the summer break is indeed near. As we finish the 2021-2022 school year, I want to thank you for being understanding, working with us, and your continuing support of our District. 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 glad to get back to pre-pandemic procedures with attendance. 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.
Unfortunately, due to an enrollment decline of approximately 35 students over the last two years, the District is experiencing budget shortfalls causing a reduction of about $400,000 for next year. This will be accomplished by reduction in staff, some programming, new curriculum purchases, and budget cuts in department areas. Additional cuts may be needed in the future as well. The District is always looking for additional revenue sources in the form of grants and trying to increase student population, which is the main funding source of public schools.
As the 2021-2022 school year comes to a close, we are actively preparing for the start of school for 2022-2023. Our back to school registration days are set for Tuesday August 9th and Wednesday August 10th. The first day of school next year will be on Tuesday, September 6th for grades 7-12 and Thursday September 8th for grades K-6.
We are also planning for several FREE summer enrichment activities that students can sign up for including Kindergarten Camp, Ball Shed construction, Arts and Crafts, Coding, Literacy Instruction, Field Trips, and more! Funds for these activities are provided by COVID relief dollars set aside for summer enrichment. FREE summer lunch for any student under the age of 18 will again be provided Mondays-Thursdays starting on June 6th and ending August 25th. These meals will be served in the kitchen at Central High School. Students and parents have been or will be contacted on how to sign up for all of these opportunities.
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!
In education,
Joe Meyer Superintendent, Murray County Central Public Schools