Board of Education Meeting Highlights for February 11, 2025

Welcome to our monthly Board of Education newsletter! Here you'll find highlights from our latest Board of Education meeting held on February 11, 2025. There are many ways you can stay updated on the decisions and discussions shaping our school district.

Your engagement is crucial in building a better future for our community. Thank you for your continued support of MGSD!

Mooresville High School nominated Manju Muruganandam, a 10th grade student who exemplifies the word "outstanding!" In the nomination, Principal Samone Graham said:

"Manju exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding student, consistently going above and beyond in all areas of her academic and extracurricular pursuits. Her dedication, work ethic, and leadership make her a standout student at MHS. Manju actively participates in numerous clubs and organizations, including Young Elites, Book Club, Debate Club, SkillsUSA, Beta Club, Science National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and Crosby Scholars. She also balances her academic commitments with athletic excellence as a member of the Tennis Team and both the Indoor and Outdoor Track Teams. Her ability to manage such a diverse range of activities while maintaining a high level of performance is truly commendable. Beyond her impressive resume, Manju is a model of respect, integrity, and commitment. She gives 100% in everything she does, always striving to excel and contribute positively to the school community. Manju embodies the spirit of being "ALL IN" at MHS, demonstrating exceptional dedication to both academics and extracurricular activities. Manju’s character, leadership, and commitment to excellence make her an ideal candidate for Student of the Month. She represents the very best of MHS and serves as a role model for her peers. It is an honor to recognize her contributions and accomplishments!"

Selma Burke Middle School nominated Journee Simmons, a 6th grade student who shows tremendous leadership! Journee was nominated by the SBMS staff who said:

"Journee has a warm, approachable personality and a strong desire to learn. She's a hard worker, always willing to collaborate, and is deeply committed to helping her peers in the classroom. Journee was named Student of the Month for her exceptional teamwork. She consistently goes out of her way to make her classmates feel respected and supported, whether they’re tackling assignments or working together to keep the classroom and cafeteria tables tidy. Journee excels at organizing tasks and inspiring her classmates to give their best effort, fostering a sense of teamwork in every project. She's not only a great team player, but also a natural leader. Journee is a wonderful student. She is a hard worker who always tries her best in the classroom. Aside from academics, Journee shows a level of emotional maturity and empathy towards her peers that is far beyond her years. She is extremely caring and is always aware of what others are feeling and going through. Journee never hesitates to offer support and friendship to those around her who may be struggling. She is always thinking about others and wants the best for everyone!"

MGSD is extremely proud of these two students for being wonderful examples of exceptional character!

The Mooresville High School Honors Choir, featuring 10th through 12th grade students under the direction of instructor Ms. Melanie Kalkan, was nominated by MHS Principal Graham:

"The MHS Honors Choir is a very active group both within the school and out in the community. This choir includes 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students. The choir performs consistently throughout the school year at various school events, sporting events, and community events. In addition, the choir performs concerts during the year with music that is both challenging and inspiring. Most of these students can also be found on the stage performing in our variety shows each semester, as well as on the stage for our spring musical. Our motto at MHS is “ALL IN” and these students are an example of just that!"

Honors Choir Students: Felicia Cooper-Hutson, Owen Crowley, Hayden Dean, Madison Diaz, Fia Fair, Josiah Garlin, Raelyn Garrett, Madison Grattidge, Taylor Hankinson, Maria Holder Castillo, Lyric horton, Brooklyn Kern, Tabitha Lewis, Robert Lloyd, Ava Mackie, Joshua McClelland, Mya McClelland, Riley O’Neil, Nevaeh Owensby, Kaileigh Rowell, Gabrielle Silver, Makayla Simms, Victoria Singleton, Rylee Sisco, Zane Smith, Thomas Stanley.

Click the video to hear our Artists of the Month sing for the attendees at the February Board of Education meeting.

Mooresville High School nominated Mr. Charles Parker, front office staff, for demonstrating our MGSD core value of building authentic relationships! In the nomination, the MHS administrative team said the following about Mr. Parker:

"It is with great enthusiasm that we recognize Mr. Charles Parker for his unwavering dedication and outstanding contributions to MHS. Mr. Parker exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond for the students and staff of our school. Mr. Parker approaches his work with respect, care, and an unmatched spirit of generosity. He has played a pivotal role in creating a an inclusive environment at MHS by spearheading numerous initiatives such as organizing staff celebrations, creating and executing the "Back to the Yard" event, and beautifully decorating the staff lounge to uplift morale. These efforts, among many, showcase his commitment to making MHS a place where everyone feels valued and supported. Students adore Mr. Parker for his contagious positivity and warm demeanor. He greets everyone with a smile, bringing light and joy to the building daily. His ability to remain calm in challenging moments provides a sense of stability and reassurance for all. Mr. Parker is the embodiment of what it means to be “ALL IN.” MHS is incredibly fortunate to have Mr. Parker as part of our team, and we are grateful for his tireless efforts and support. Thank you, Mr. Parker, for all you do to make MHS a better place for everyone!"

Selma Burke Middle School nominated their cafeteria manager, Ms. Amanda Lawrence, for her efforts in building authentic relationships. Principal Dan Miller said the following about Ms. Lawrence:

"We would like to recognize the hard work and dedication of Amanda Lawrence, our Selma Burke Middle School Cafeteria Manager. She goes above and beyond the call of duty every day for both students and staff. She always has a smile on her face, even when facing challenges or obstacles. She is a problem solver, innovative with her ideas, and willing to try new things and take risks to improve. She has created a warm and welcoming environment in our cafeteria and collaborates with administrators and teachers to provide the best possible experience for students. MGSD Director of Child Nutrition, Staci Burchfield, said, 'Amanda is a new cafeteria manager who prioritizes creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students and staff. She actively works to foster a positive atmosphere by rewarding students' good behavior.' We saw this when Ms. Lawrence worked with our PTSO to create a Bear Bucks system that allows cafeteria staff, teachers, and administrators to reward acts of kindness and outstanding character in the cafeteria and classroom. Ms. Lawrence embodies the Spirit of a Bear and the core values of MGSD. Go BEARS!"

Each year, as part of their annual conference, the North Carolina School Board Association conducts a poster and video contest for all students in North Carolina. This year students were encouraged to draw a picture of themselves in the future achieving their dreams and positively impacting the world. We are proud to announce that the Mooresville Graded School District had two students recognized by the NCSBA for their posters:

Eleanor Akelman, 2nd grade student at Rocky River Elementary (pictured with Dr. Gardner) and Jameson Arnold, 1st grade student at Rocky River Elementary. Congratulations!

Our school board members dedicate their time, energy, and expertise to make thoughtful decisions that positively impact every student they serve. Their tireless efforts create an environment where learning, growth, and success thrive for both students and staff. However, it’s not just the decisions they make that define them—it’s the passion and advocacy they bring to their roles. MGSD school board members stand out as champions of education, fighting for the resources, policies, and programs that empower our educators and equip students with the tools they need to succeed. In doing so, they play a vital role in strengthening our community. Mr. Whitfield, Dr. Marsh, Ms. Pennell, Mr. Brawley, and Ms. Bender – thank you for your leadership, sacrifices, and unwavering dedication to our students' success. #WeAreMOORESVILLE.

The following information was presented to the Board of Education for consideration. Action will be requested at the March 2025 meeting. For more details about each item, please click on the "memo" linked for that item, as well las presentation when applicable.

The following items were brought to the Board of Education for approval.