As we approach the winter break, I am delighted to share some remarkable updates and achievements from our vibrant school district. It has been a busy month filled with events that showcase the talent, dedication, and community spirit of our students and staff.

1. School dismissal and winter break

As a reminder, schools will dismiss on Friday, Dec. 22, at noon, and will remain closed through Monday, Jan. 1. Classes will resume on Tuesday, Jan. 2. We hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break and returns refreshed for the start of the new year.

2. Celebrating CTI expansion

Last week, Marshall Public Schools hosted a Business After Hours event at the new Career and Technical Institute (CTI) location. This celebration marked not only the expansion of our programming but also the generous support from Businesses in the community and Taher, who donated food for the occasion. The event, in partnership with the Chamber, brought together students, families, staff, and community leaders. We are thrilled about the success of our CTI partnerships, which have brought in over $170,000 in support for career and technical education in our schools.

3. Little Cubs Preschool winter celebration

In the spirit of the season, Little Cubs Preschool is buzzing with activity. Special classroom projects are underway, and on Dec. 22, we invite everyone to join us for an all-school winter celebration in the Park Side gym.

4. ECFE winter/spring classes

Registration for winter/spring Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) classes opens on Dec. 20. The Marshall Community Services brochure provides details on the diverse class offerings available to our community.

5. Literacy program and DIBELS assessment

Our commitment to literacy is unwavering. We are proud to enter the second year of using the DIBELS assessment to track the progress of our youngest readers. The upcoming mid-year benchmark assessment in December will provide valuable insights into the growth and success of our students.

6. Kindness Week at Park Side

From Nov. 13 to Nov.17, Park Side students embraced Kindness Week, demonstrating their best ways to be kind. The celebration included fun dress-up days, kindness tickets, and a shared commitment to creating a positive and compassionate school environment.

7. Marshall Middle School concerts and Conservation Crew

Marshall Middle School showcased the talents of its students in recent concerts, with the Band performing on Nov. 16 and Orchestra and Choir on Nov.21. Additionally, the Conservation Crew has been actively involved in projects, including expanding a pollinator garden with a generous donation of seeds from Baker Creed Seed Company.

8. Guest speaker on mental health at MHS

On Dec. 4, MHS welcomed Sam Eaton, a speaker who shared his personal journey battling depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. This important conversation aimed to raise awareness and provide support for our students.

9. Tiger Café and community engagement

The Tiger Café, a program designed to enhance employment skills for students with disabilities, continues to thrive. This initiative, made possible through a Lyft grant, exemplifies our commitment to inclusive education and real-world skill development.

10. Recognizing achievements

Congratulations to Coach Terry Bahlmann, awarded District Coach of the Year. Also, kudos to Austin Dunn and Kennedy Drake for earning the MSHSL Triple “A” Award and Ali Pederson and Josh Leibfried for the ExCEL Award. These students exemplify excellence in academics, arts, athletics, and community leadership.

As we approach the end of the year, let’s celebrate the successes of our students and look forward to continued growth and achievement in 2023.

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year.

— Jeremy Williams is superintendent of Marshall Public Schools