BY DEBBIE PAGE

The Mooresville Graded School District Board of Education heard plans for the summer enrichment and retesting opportunities for EOG/EOC testing outside of the traditional school calendar during this week’s meeting. The board will study the plan, with formal approval scheduled at the March board meeting.

Retesting allows students who were close to proficiency to take the EOG/EOC again after remediation. While the student score does not count for school growth, the retest score does count for school and district proficiency calculations.

High school summer school students who did not receive course credit can also take classes for credit recovery or new courses online for credit. NF Woods/ MIWAYE will host its own summer school.

Summer CTE Camps Career Camps will also be offered, providing hands-on skills and project-based learning in STEM for rising 6th-9th Graders.

The district will also offer 72 hours of Read to Achieve literacy instruction to students demonstrating difficulty. Legislative prioritizes funding for Grades 2 and 3.

For younger students, the YReaders program will serve at-risk kindergarten and first-grade students in reading through a partnership with the Lowe’s YMCA. This six-week camp also has off-site field trips.

Support will also be offered in a two-week intensive camp to multilingual newcomers in grades 3-6, and extended school opportunities are available over the summer to Exceptional Children.

Secondary JumpStart will occur for rising sixth-graders (WEB) and rising ninth-graders (LINK).

Programming Dates

Transportation and meals will be provided. Students will attend Monday-Thursday, with no school on June 19. Staggered start times are to allow for multiple bus runs.

♦ K-1 YReaders Camp 6/2-7/10 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

♦ 2nd-3rd grade Read to Achieve Camp 6/2-7/3 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

♦ 3rd-6th Multilingual Newcomer Camp 6/2-6/12 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

♦ 6th-9th CTE Career Accelerator – 6/9 – 6/12 Session 1, 6/16-6/18 Session 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

♦ 9th-12th Summer School 6/9-6/18 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

♦ 9th-12th NFW Summer School 5/27-6/26 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

♦ Rising sixth-graders Jump Start TBD

♦ Rising ninth-graders Jump Start – 7/28 (Leaders) 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

♦ Summer high school graduation is scheduled for June 26 at 8 a.m.

Summer Testing

The summer testing opportunity is for students who were not proficient on state tests to receive remediation and test again. This opportunity applies to EOG tests in third through eighth grades and high school EOCs (excluding science because this year was a test renorming process and test scores will not be back in time for retesting dates).

Students will attend in-person remediation lessons and then take the EOG/EOC exam to attempt to show proficiency in math and reading/ELA.

Parents will be notified about notification of programming dates in March, with individual invitations to eligible students issued in May.

Priority invitations will be for students within 5 scale points of proficiency or those recommended by teachers or administrators from available data. Testing will be done online.

Summer testing dates are:

♦ Grades 3rd-5th EOGs – 6/2-6/5 (ELA 4-5), 6/9-6/12 (Math 3-5) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

♦ Grades 6th-8th EOGs – 6/2-6/3 ELA 6-8) 6/4-6/5 (Math 6-8) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

♦ High School EOCs – 6/2-6/3 (Eng 2) 6/4-6/5 (Math 1/Math 3) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Mooresville High School (MHS) sophomore Manju Muruganandam, nominated by Principal Samone Graham, was chosen as the January Student of the Month.

Graham said that 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.”

While balancing her academic commitments, she is active 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 and exhibits athletic excellence as a member of the tennis team and 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,” said Graham. “Beyond her impressive resume, Manju is a model of respect, integrity, and commitment. She gives 100 percent 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 (SBMS) sixth-grade student Journee Simmons was also nominated by the SBMS Staff as February Student of the Month.

Described as having a warm, approachable personality and a strong desire to learn, Journee was praised as a hard worker who is always willing to collaborate and is deeply committed to helping her peers in the classroom.

In November, Journee was named SBMS Student of the Month for her exceptional teamwork because 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.”

The staff said that Journee additionally “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.”

Apart from her academic excellence, 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 what they are 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.”

ARTISTS OF THE MONTH

The Mooresville High School Honors Choir was nominated by Graham as January Artists of the Month. “The MHS Honors Choir is a very active group both within the school and community. This choir includes 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. The choir performs consistently throughout the school year at various school events, sporting events, and community events,” said Graham.

“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 and on the stage for our spring musical.

Chorus members include 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’Neill, Nevaeh Owensby, Kaileigh Rowell, Gabrielle Silver Makayla Simms, Victoria Singleton, Rylee Sisco, Zane Smith, and Thomas Stanley.

The February Artist of the Month was unable to attend and will be recognized in March.

ABCD AWARDS

MHS Principal Samone Graham nominated Charles Parker from the front office staff for the January Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award 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 vibrant and 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 others, showcase his deep 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.’ His spirit and enthusiasm create a welcoming atmosphere that fosters community and collaboration.”

“MHS is incredibly fortunate to have Mr. Parker as part of our team, and we are deeply grateful for his tireless efforts and unwavering support.”

SBMS cafeteria manager Amanda Lawrence was also nominated by Principal Dan Miller for the February ABCD Award for her hard work and dedication.

“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.”

The Director of Child Nutrition, Staci Burchfield, said, “Amanda, a promising new cafeteria manager, 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.”

Ms. Lawrence worked with the SBMS 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.

“The students are eager to be recognized for doing the right thing and are very appreciative when they earn a Bear Buck, which they can use to visit the snack line and choose their reward,” said Miller.

“From rearranging things to improve the flow of the lines, to working with us to stagger lunches, to partnering with our PTSO, and asking students what they want to see at lunch, she has embodied the Spirit of a Bear and the core values of MGSD. We are fortunate to have such a strong partner and advocate for students leading our cafeteria.”

SPOTLIGHT ON PEOPLE

Rocky River Elementary first-grade students Jameson Arnold and Eleanor Akelman were recognized for winning the North Carolina School Board Association Poster Contest. Each year, as part of their annual conference, the NCSBA 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 making a positive impact on the world. Arnold and Ackelman were recognized for their efforts at the conference this year.

As part of Board of Education Appreciation Month, the district also thanked the MGSD School Board members for dedicating “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.”

The board members were presented hand-crafted gifts from MGSD elementary students in honor of their efforts.

INSTRUCTIONAL HIGHTLIGHTS

Mooresville High School

MHS Principal Samone Graham and instructors Tonya Parks, April Davala, and Charlene Barber, counselor Mary Royal, and instructional coach Erica Akelman highlighted Advanced Placement courses and the Career and College Promise program at the school.

Parks discussed her AP Government class, saying that it challenges higher performing students and helped them prepare for college and explore interests. Students must learn to write responses to free response questions, analyze data, utilize critical thinking skills, and engage in civil discourse.

Her approximately 85 students have a 93.8 percent pass rate per year, one of the top rates in the state, according to Graham.

Davala discussed AP Language and Composition and AP Language and Literature courses.

In the writing intensive class, students explore non-fiction texts to better understand an author’s rhetorical choices and their impact on the texts’ success.

They also learn to evaluate sources for information, gather and consolidate information from many sources, and to write an evidence-based argument and to draft and revise a piece of writing..

The AP Literature and Composition is a reading intensive course where students explore what makes literature great while examining how an author or poet creates meaning through language.

Students closely read texts and identify techniques and effects employed by the author to develop their own interpretation of the text and then present their interpretations through evidence-based writing.

Davala noted the skills gained by taking AP Language or Literature courses are easily transferable to many content areas in both in high school and college. Her students have had an 85 to 95 percent pass rate.

Barber discussed the AP Environmental Science course, which provides students with scientific principles and concepts on which they conduct research and create student-led projects, giving students real world experiences.

The course helps students identify and analyze natural and human-induced environmental problems and enables them to learn how to assess the risks associated with these problems and evaluate alternative solutions for resolving and preventing them. These conceptual skills will carry on to other contents throughout the student’s educational path and in the workplace.

Graham said the AP Computer Science course, offered for the fifth year at MHS, has 30 to 40 students signing up for the course each year. The course is also a CTE concentrator course as a continuation from the Coding in Minecraft and Computer Science I courses.

The course empowers students to design solutions, develop algorithms, and explore computing systems while fostering a collaborative and ethical computing culture.

The course emphasis is on collaborative projects, which students complete a final project for the college board along with taking the AP exam in May.

Akelman discussed the enrichment being offered to fall semester AP students during weekly spring sessions with their teachers to continue preparation for the May AP exams.

Mary Royal shared information about the Career and College Promise (CCP) partnership. In the fall of 2021,186 students earned 857 college credit hours, followed by 208 students earning 980 in fall 2022. In fall 2023, 287 students earned 1122 college credit hours earned, followed by 354 students earning 1967 college credit hours earned in fall of 2024.

Currently, 499 MHS students meet CCP eligibility requirements, with 446 students who meet eligibility requirements having active CCP applications.

In a new endeavor, MHS began offering on-campus CCP classes this past fall, including Medical Terminology 1 and Medical Terminology 2. One hundred percent of enrolled students passed and earned credit for both classes.

MHS will also offer College Physics 1 and 2 transfer courses in 2026.

Several students spoke of their enjoyment of the CCP and AP courses and how they prepared them for the rigor of college level work and the time management skills they will need in the future.

Whitfield was thrilled with adding these rigorous courses to the high school campus. Pennell said that AP and CCP classes also keep them involved in the high school community while still providing them curricular challenges.

SBMS

Selma Burke Middle School presenters Principal Dan Miller, along with Instructional Coach Anne Allen, 6th grade and first year teachers Matthew Russell and Henri Ly, and seventh-grade teacher Bethany Burroughs, presented their strategies to meet their school improvement plan goals.

The school’s goal is to increase school performance grade from 51% to 59% overall for Math and ELA as measured by the North Carolina End of Grade test in May 2025.

SBMS is using Student-Centered Coaching, a research-based approach by Diane Sweeney, to improve instruction and student outcomes. This model shifts the focus from evaluating teachers to partnering with them to enhance student learning.