Dear MCS Family,
We had a packed house at this month’s Board of Education meeting as we recognized not only our February Students and Employees of the Month but also those from January who were unable to attend due to the snow. It was a great reminder that no matter the delay, celebrating the people who make Marietta Special. Different. Better. is always worth the wait.
This month, we had the privilege of recognizing community partners who pour into our schools as well as the students and teachers whose accomplishments unearth pathways to brighter futures.
Schools will be closed from February 17 – 21 for Winter Break, and then we'll be back well rested and ready for a strong spring.
Sincerely,
Grant
Student of the Month
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Lockheed Elementary student Gabrielle Wells as the January Student of the Month.
Gabrielle is a fifth-grader and a natural leader who brings kindness and positivity to her classroom every day. Known for her caring nature, she goes out of her way to support her friends and family, always looking out for those around her. Beyond the classroom, Gabrielle has a passion for dance and a background in cheerleading, bringing energy and enthusiasm to everything she does. Her leadership, dedication, and compassion make her a shining example for her peers at Lockheed Elementary.
The Board of Education congratulates Gabrielle for being a Marietta City Schools Student of the Month for January.
Student of the Month
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Sawyer Road Elementary student Africa Escobar as the January Student of the Month.
Africa is a fifth-grade student and is an exemplary leader who consistently sets a high standard for her peers. As an IB Ambassador, she serves as a role model, embodying the values of leadership and service. Africa spends her time tutoring second-grade students in reading, making a meaningful impact by helping them improve their reading level. On Saturdays, she volunteers to help feed families in need, demonstrating her deep commitment to her community.
The Board of Education congratulates Africa for being a Marietta City Schools Student of the Month for January.
Student of the Month
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Emily Lembeck Early Learning Center student Theodore "Theo" Brown as the February Student of the Month.
Theo has demonstrated incredible academic and social growth throughout the school year. He navigates challenges with ease and gets along with everyone in his class. He's always eager to help and positively contribute to the classroom. His enthusiasm for learning shines through, and he loves sharing his experiences.
The Board of Education congratulates Theo for being a Marietta City Schools Student of the Month for February.
Employee of the Month
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Lockheed Elementary counselor Danielle Helmick as the January Employee of the Month.
Ms. Helmick is a relentless advocate for students, ensuring they receive the support and opportunities they deserve. She is known for her creativity and determination and always finds solutions when the path forward seems unclear. Ms. Helmick works tirelessly to secure student resources, always leading with respect, love, and dedication. Her commitment to equity and student success makes her an invaluable part of the Lockheed community.
The Board of Education congratulates Ms. Helmick for being a Marietta City Schools Employee of the Month for January.
Employee of the Month
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Sawyer Road Elementary social worker Brittany George as the January Employee of the Month.
Ms. George has profoundly impacted her school community by ensuring families can access essential resources year-round. She's helped create a school pantry that has provided countless meals to families, and she goes above and beyond by assisting families with housing, employment opportunities, and transportation.
The Board of Education congratulates Ms. George for being a Marietta City Schools Employee of the Month for January.
Employee of the Month
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Emily Lembeck Early Learning Center teacher Christina McCleskey as the February Employee of the Month.
Ms. McCleskey has seamlessly integrated into the school community, making meaningful connections with students and staff. She joins students at lunch, engaging in thoughtful conversations that welcome a supportive environment. She generously offers guidance on MTSS goals and strategies to help struggling students succeed. Her genuine interest in her colleagues shines through in her kindness and personal connections.
The Board of Education congratulates Ms. McCleskey for being a Marietta City Schools Employee of the Month for February.
Special Recognition
The Board of Education recognized the 2024 REACH Scholars: Flor Mejia, Amira Noel, Uria Otito, Dulce Owen, and Faith Lyons. These eighth-graders were selected for the state’s competitive needs-based mentorship and college scholarship program. They have committed to following a rigorous educational path and will be eligible to receive a $10,000 scholarship upon graduation from Marietta High School.
Congratulations to our scholars, and thank you to Marietta Schools Foundation's Laura Kraus, Joe Kinstle, and John Clotfelter, as well as Marietta Mentoring for Leadership's Kristen Thompson for their support in uplifting our students.
Special Recognition
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Marietta High School for winning the inaugural Georgia Heavy Equipment Operator State Championship.
This victory highlights the strength of the MHS College and Career Heavy Equipment Operator program and its commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers. Senior Carter Bailey earned first place in the excavator student competition, while Coach Joe Street took home the top prize in the excavator teacher competition. Both demonstrated exceptional skill in operating excavators, bulldozers, and heavy equipment simulators. Students in this program gain hands-on experience and earn their Heavy Equipment Operating License, opening doors to high-paying careers with starting salaries of $50,000 after graduation.
Congratulations to the MHS College and Career Heavy Equipment Operator program and the state championship winners on this special recognition.
Special Recognition
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized the Marietta Police Department and Marietta Police Foundation for their generosity and community partnership through the "Shop with a Cop" event.
On December 12, officers accompanied 60 MCS students to a local Walmart, giving them the opportunity to shop for essentials and holiday gifts for their families and themselves. Each student received $300 to spend, ensuring they had what they needed to make the holiday season special. This annual event highlights the strong bond between Marietta City Schools and local law enforcement.
Congratulations, and thank you to the Marietta Police Department and the Marietta Police Foundation's Tom McEachern, Laura Austin, Duane Sherman, Jody Traylor, and Tim Ward for accepting this recognition.
Special Recognition
The Marietta City Schools Board of Education recognized Mission 1:27 for its support of MCS families through the Mission 1:27 Christmas Market. The organization provided holiday assistance to more than 400 families, ensuring they received gifts just in time for the holiday season.
Rather than a traditional giveaway, families had the opportunity to shop for gifts just as they would in a store. Items were on sale, allowing parents to select and purchase gifts for their children at a fraction of the cost. This thoughtful approach empowered families.
Congratulations, and thank you to Mission 1:27 for supporting our MCS families.
Jill Waldrep announced as new principal of Sawyer Road Elementary
Jill Waldrep has been named the new principal of Sawyer Road Elementary School. The MCS Board of Education unanimously approved her promotion Tuesday night. Waldrep, a dedicated and experienced educator with 27 years of experience, brings a deep commitment to student achievement, instructional excellence, and relationship-building to her new role. Watch the video below, then click here to learn more about Ms. Waldrep.
Board Meeting Approvals
- Approval of Minutes - January 21, 2025 Public Hearing: Statewide Adjusted Base Year Ad Valorem Homestead Exemption (HB 581) (6/0 - Approved)
- Approval of Minutes - January 21, 2025 Regular Monthly Meeting (6/0 - Approved)
- Approval of Minutes - January 29, 2025 Public Hearing: Statewide Adjusted Base Year Ad Valorem Homestead Exemption (HB 581) (6/0 - Approved)
- Approval of Minutes - January 31, 2025 Board of Education Mini-Retreat (6/0 - Approved)
- Adoption of Agenda (6/0 - Approved)
- CCRPI Report Presentation - Presentation
- Language Classes for Families & Educators - OLA Language School, LLC (7/0 - Approved)
- Playground Improvements - PlaySouth Playground Creators, LLC (7/0 - Approved)
- Playground Synthetic Turf - West Side Elementary (7/0 - Approved)
- Outdoor Classroom Irrigation - A.L. Burruss Elementary (7/0 - Approved)
- Artificial Intelligence Weapons Detection - Alliance Technology Group (7/0 - Approved)
- Renovation Project - Sawyer Road Elementary (7/0 - Approved)
- Antivirus Software Renewal - CDW-G (7/0 - Approved)
- Combi Ovens - Marietta Center For Advanced Academics, Marietta High School (7/0- Approved)
- Convection Ovens - Marietta Middle School, Marietta Sixth Grade Academy (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 (7/0 - Approved)