I am very happy to be afforded the opportunity to share the wonderful things going on in the Marietta City Schools through this column. Many thanks to the Marietta Times for allowing me this opportunity.
It's difficult to know where to begin. Our elementary school classrooms are full of activity. With our enrollment stable all four of our K-5 buildings are utilizing each and every space to work with children. Our elementary class sizes are a little larger than we would like this year due to the retirement of six teachers last spring and no money in the budget to replace them. Class sizes in the K-5 classrooms range from the mid-20's to over 30 students in a class. Students are utilizing technology, participating in large and small group instruction, and are involved in critical thinking activities to master the curriculum.
Our junior high school is utilizing community resources and technology in the classroom to enhance student learning. Academic rigor is the central focus of activities at the junior high. Marietta Middle School has been quite competitive academically. Math Counts, Power of the Pen, Science Olympiad, National History Day, and Model UN have all been active participants in a variety of competitions across the state. Several of our groups have exceeded expectations and qualified students and teams for the next round of state competitions. It has been an exciting year for our academic teams! Beyond the classroom students are engaged in sports, club activities, band and choir.
Marietta High School continues to focus on preparing students for college and careers. The curriculum is being tailored to meet the current needs of students entering the work force as well as considering college. National Honor Society inducted the class of 2010-2011 and students continue to take advantage of the Post Secondary Enrollment Options program by taking coursework at Marietta College and Washington State Community College. A large number of students are involved in extracurricular activities, sports, clubs, band and choir.
District wide, the Board of Education has decided to place the emergency operating levy back on the ballot May 4. These funds will be used for operating expenses and not to replace or build new buildings. Your support is appreciated.
I can be contacted at ma_bthomas@seovec.org with questions or comments.
Bruce Thomas is superintendent of schools for Marietta City Schools.
