BOARD NOTES DECEMBER 2024

Dear MCS Family,

As we close out this semester, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the staff, students, and family for a great start to the school year. This season has been filled with perseverance, achievement, and countless moments of pride. From students excelling in academics to staff going above and beyond to make a difference, I am reminded yet again of how Marietta really is Special. Different. Better.

I’d be remiss if I did not acknowledge the discussion of the potential expansion of our cellphone and smartwatch initiative to include high school students next school year. The success of the initiative at MSGA and MMS, as noted in last night’s presentation, has shown a positive impact on student learning, classroom engagement, and letting kids be kids.

However, we recognize that the dynamics at the high school level are unique, as you can see in my MHS presentation from last night. In the coming months, we will engage in meaningful conversations with MHS parents, students, and staff to better understand the challenges and opportunities.

Schools will be closed from December 23 – January 6 for Holiday Break. I hope this time brings you rest and cherished moments with those you love.

I look forward to seeing all that we will accomplish together in 2025.

Sincerely,

Grant

Marietta City Schools

Summary - Board of Education Meeting

December 10, 2024 | Combined Work Session - Regular Monthly Meeting

Student of the Month

The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Hickory Hills Elementary student Maisie Osborne as the December Student of the Month.

Maisie is a second-grader committed to excellence and performing above grade level in all areas. She stands out as a leader in her classroom, inspiring her peers with her positive example. This year, Maisie shined on stage as the lead in her 2nd-grade production of Frog and Toad, captivating the audience with her performance. She is also an active church choir member. Maisie’s sweet disposition and natural leadership make her a remarkable example among her fellow Dragons.

The Board of Education congratulates Maisie for being a Marietta City Schools Student of the Month for December.

Student of the Month

The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Wood-Wilkins student Jamiyah Jerome as the December Student of the Month.

Jamiyah is a dedicated and forward-thinking sophomore in the MAPS program who strives for excellence in all she does. This semester, she has completed five classes and is on track to earn 15 credits by the end of the school year. She is already preparing for her future and plans to take college classes as a dual enrollment student at Kennesaw State University during her senior year. Jamiyah’s determination, ambition, and focus make her a shining example of success and leadership.

The Board of Education congratulates Jamiyah for being a Marietta City Schools Student of the Month for December.

Employee of the Month

The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Hickory Hills Elementary’s Summer Babay as the December Employee of the Month.

Mrs. Babay is a dedicated educator who gracefully and excellently leads her 2nd-grade team. Under her guidance, the team has become one of the strongest in the building. Her classroom is a model for literacy instruction, attracting leaders from across metro Atlanta to observe her innovative teaching practices. Mrs. Babay’s positivity and willingness to support others bring joy to her school and make her an invaluable asset to her community.

The Board of Education congratulates Mrs. Babay for being a Marietta City Schools Employee of the Month for December.

Employee of the Month

The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Woods-Wilkins counselor Brandon Bogues as the December Employee of the Month.

Mr. Bogues is a dedicated counselor who empowers students to achieve their goals and embrace their potential. He has supported nine students from the Class of 2025 in completing their graduation credits by December 2024, with five of them set to enroll in Chattahoochee Tech as dual enrollment students for the spring semester. Mr. Bogues inspired these students to consider higher education by showcasing opportunities available to them during a recent college tour. His commitment to student success and future readiness makes him an invaluable mentor and leader.

The Board of Education congratulates Mr. Bogues for being a Marietta City Schools Employee of the Month for December.

Special Recognition

The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Marietta Sixth Grade Academy (MSGA) for being named as a 2024 Association for Middle-Level Education (AMLE) School of Distinction. This incredible achievement places the school among an elite group of only 17 schools nationwide recognized for its exemplary commitment to best practices in middle-grade education.

The school’s leadership was also honored for their innovative approaches, which they proudly shared at the AMLE24 51st Annual Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. This recognition highlights the dedication and excellence that make MSGA a standout in middle-level education.

Congratulations to MSGA for its outstanding work. Thank you to Assistant Principal Miriam White, Instructional Supervisor Eric Williams, Principal's Secretary Tootie Berniard, Principal Keynun Campbell, and Instructional Supervisor Dr. Tamara Edwards, and for receiving this special recognition.

Board Meeting Approvals

  • Approval of Minutes - November 12, 2024 Combined Work Session - Regular Monthly Meeting (7/0 - Approved)
  • Adoption of Agenda (7/0 - Approved)
  • Financial Report
  • Cellphones/Smartwatches - Marietta Sixth Grade Academy/Marietta Middle School - Presentation
  • Cellphones/Smartwatches - Marietta High School - Presentation
  • Motion to Extend Meeting for 30 Minutes (7/0 - Approved)
  • School Calendars 2026-2029 (7/0 - Approved) - Presentation
  • Media Center Disposition (7/0 - Approved)
  • Policy Approval (7/0 - Approved)
  • Budget Development Calendar (7/0 - Approved)
  • Staffing Services - BlazerWorks, LLC (7/0 - Approved)
  • Furniture Refresh - Marietta Middle School (7/0 - Approved)
  • Transportation Fuel Tank Repairs - C & S Pump Service Company, Inc. (7/0 - Approved)
  • Wellness Program Report (7/0 - Approved)
  • Equipment Disposition (7/0 - Approved)
  • Fundraisers (7/0 - Approved)
  • Field Trips (7/0 - Approved)
  • Executive Session - Permitted Land, Legal, Personnel, and Student Matter (7/0 - Approved)
  • Approval of Personnel Action (7/0 - Approved)
  • Approval of Administrative Personnel Action - (No Action)
  • Approval of Superintendent Evaluation - (Moved to January's Meeting Without Objection)