Mt. Vernon Middle School News

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) recently welcomed a group of three administrators and 13 elementary students from Taiwan. The group had the opportunity to experience several aspects of American culture, including education in a one-to-one environment (one computer device for each student/staff). The Taiwanese came to Mt. Vernon in hopes of learning more of the English language and immersing themselves in the daily schedule as a Mt. Vernon student/teacher.

Fortville Elementary School (FES) fourth graders have used their STEM knowledge to create a replica of the Town of Fortville using graham crackers and other additional edible materials. This “Gingerbread Town of Fortville” gave five fourth-grade classes an opportunity to collectively create a replica. Each class was given a portion of the town to develop, and then pairs of students were assigned a specific building.

The holiday season often inspires a love of giving, and a Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) student took it upon himself to give a teacher something he will never forget: the gift of seeing colors.

The High-Tech Academy teacher at Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS), Mrs. Julie Bravard Johnson, has been instructing her students on how to make arcade machines in order to advance their initiative of learning more about the science of programming. A unique twist to this technology project was that it involved fifth graders to test their product.

The School Board of Trustees at the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation has named Dr. Jack Parker as Superintendent. Dr. Parker will officially accept the Superintendency position at the December School Board meeting on December 17, 2018, and the start of his contract will be effective on January 7, 2019. The community is invited to attend a reception in his honor after the December 17 School Board meeting at approximately 7:30 p.m. in the Administrative Service Center, 1806 W. State Road 234, Fortville, IN 46040.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) was recently awarded with a K-6 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Acceleration Grant from the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE).  In recent years, both the IDOE and MVCSC have focused on a multitude of efforts to increase the STEM initiative in schools. The IDOE awarded MVCSC nearly $50,000 to further advance STEM education in the elementary and middle schools.

Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) is one of the six middle schools in the state to receive an award from Champions Together in the Middle for the 2017-18 school year. Champions Together in the Middle is a partnership between the Indiana Middle-Level Education Association and Special Olympics Indiana.

During this giving season, the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is asking the community to consider supporting the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation’s "Giving Tuesday Campaign" on or before Tuesday, November 27, 2018. The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) supports Mt. Vernon students, providing them with innovative academic experiences and opportunities to help students achieve more.

Each year, two students from Hancock County are carefully selected to receive a full-ride scholarship to any Indiana college through the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, which is administered by the Hancock County Community Foundation. Two students from each Hancock County high school in the top 15% of their class are chosen to be finalists for the scholarship. The finalists are accomplished and driven teens who set themselves apart from their peers with their philanthropic interests.  The two Mt. Vernon High School students chosen as 2018 Lilly Endowment Scholarship finalists are seniors Cade Gentry and Emma Walker.

Thanks to a grant from the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation, 19 Mt. Vernon High School students experienced a writing workshop from published author, Mike Mullin.  Mr. Mullin wrote the Ashfall trilogy and most recently published the book Surface Tension.  All students left the “funshop” with the start of their own novel.  

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation recently celebrated Veteran’s Day at McCordsville Elementary, Mt. Comfort Elementary, Fortville Elementary, and Mt. Vernon Middle School, honoring those who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces.

The students participating in the aviation classes at Mt. Vernon High School have already experienced more training at their age than most employed pilots.  These aviation students, comprised of students from Greenfield Central High School and Mt. Vernon High School, have flown with a pilot and also visited the Indianapolis Regional Airport where they saw the Indiana State Police’s planes and helicopters in their aviation hangar.  The students recently participated in a flight simulation training, as well as being among the select few admitted inside the Indianapolis International Airport’s control tower.

Recently, a group of Mt. Vernon educators visited Anshan, China to exchange educational practices with schools in Anshan. MVCSC hopes to continue the partnership with Anshan schools and set up further student and teacher exchanges to advance Mt. Vernon’s International Exchange program.

Mt Vernon Community School Corporation is excited to announce that we were rated as an “A District” by the Indiana Department of Education for the 2017-2018 school year.  We would like to congratulate our students, teachers, administrators, and support staff for their outstanding performance as well as their commitment to excellence.  

Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) recently introduced a Makerspace room as yet another STEM infusion to benefit the high school students and staff.  A Makerspace is a collaborative work space providing a hands-on, creative way to encourage students to design, experiment, build and invent as they engage in science, engineering, learning and exploring.  

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) has partnered with the Fortville Entrepreneurship Initiative to offer a startup pitch competition for high school students and entrepreneurs in the community.  This startup pitch competition event is for high school students, nonprofits, and area startups with the goal to foster an entrepreneurial mindset in our community and provide a forum to share big ideas. Entrepreneur ideas pitched that night will be in part funded by the audience’s selection.

Did you know that the Gleaners/MVCSC Food Pantry was originally one of five schools that was selected as a pilot program for Gleaners' school program?  The pantry is open to MVCSC families once per month to help with food insecurity in the community.  

Mt. Vernon High School recently sent a group of 6 students and 3 administrators to Québec and Montreal, Canada to experience French culture and utilize the French that the students have learned in school. Mt. Vernon has been pursuing trips similar to this one in order to advance the goal of expanding the district’s international program and immersing students into other cultures.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is transforming teaching environments by partnering with a program called Modern Teacher. This program has been used for the past two years, engaging leadership and teaching staff into defining what an effective modern teaching environment looks like in the classroom.

Approximately 85 Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) students chose to serve their community on the district’s scheduled eLearning Day. Mt. Vernon is constantly demonstrating to students the importance of serving others and building quality character traits.

At the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation's Board of Trustees Meeting on October 1, 2018, a resolution was passed to not accept new transfer/out-of-district students. This resolution is effective October 1, 2018 through June 1, 2019 for students in preschool through grade 12. The Board of Trustees is passing this resolution due to the in-district housing growth that is impacting the Mt. Vernon schools.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is inviting all realtors and home builders to attend a (free) breakfast on Wednesday, October 17th from 9 - 10:30 a.m. at the MVCSC Administrative Service Center.  Realtors will learn about Mt. Vernon Schools and enjoy a facility tour. See the realtor breakfast flyer for additional information.

Rebekah Tilley tightened a long, stretchy tourniquet around the upper arm of Laurie Gwaltney.

Mt. Vernon recently welcomed a group of eight students and eight teachers from Taiwan. The group experienced American education and culture for two weeks, while simultaneously sharing their own culture with Mt. Vernon students and staff.  According to Chen Chun-Sheng, who is an elementary principal and was the leader of the group, they were impressed by the hospitality and warmth offered by the faculty, staff, and students at Mt. Vernon.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) Board of Trustees and the administration are pleased to announce a new partnership with Hancock Health, naming the Mt. Vernon High School turf field as the “Hancock Health Stadium.”  The community is invited to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony just before the football game begins Friday, August 31 at 7:30 p.m.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is a strong district that has been known for generously helping others in time of need.  Students are taught to lead by example in many philanthropic activities throughout the school year.  MVCSC is teaming up with Midwest Food Bank, the Salvation Army, and all Hancock County Schools in collecting donations for the victims of Hurricane Harvey through the morning of Friday, September 8. 

Join us for the 2017​ ​​​​​​Joel Young Memorial Chip in Fore Kids GOLF OUTING!

Thursday, July 20, 2017

11:00 a.m. Registration/Lunch

12 p.m. Shotgun Start

Arrowhead Golf Course

New! Centralized Registration Day at MVHS for ALL MVCSC Students on Wednesday, July 19 from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. at the Mt. Vernon High School CAFETERIA.  Parents/guardians who are listed as the primary guardian in Skyward and students (grades kindergarten through grade 12) should plan on attending the MVCSC Centralized Registration on Wednesday, July 19.  The Centralized Registration will be held from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. at the Mt. Vernon High School CAFETERIA (door #7).  

Thank-an-Educator is an important program for the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) and the educational opportunities they provide for Mt. Vernon students and staff.  Give thanks to teachers, bus drivers or favorite staff member for only $10; deadline is Friday, May 19.  

Come experience the flavors of local restaurants, breweries, and sweet shops, all while supporting the students and teachers of the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation! The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation proudly presents the 2017 Taste of Mt. Vernon, sponsored by Hancock Regional Hospital!

The Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) Cheerleaders competed and placed eighth at the Orlando National High School Cheer Championships on February 11-12th. They competed in the “Time Out” division, which consists of a three minute game day routine. The “Time Out” division takes cheerleading back to what being a game day cheerleader is all about: cheering on the teams of our school and leading the crowd. They performed a cheer, an offense chant, and a band dance to Taylor Swift’s "Shake it off." The MVMS Cheerleaders advanced to finals after beating eight teams in semifinals and placed eighth overall in the National Finals.

Have an inventive, think outside-of-the-box child? Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is hosting our first Camp Invention for elementary students this summer at Fortville Elementary School (FES).  It will be held June 12-16, from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  The cost of the camp is $225; parents can sign up at www.campinvention.org.  Now through March 20, use promo code DISCOVER25 and save $25!

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is offering spirit wear to the community.  Consumers can order shirts, hats, golf shirts, car decals, "Marauder Water - Healthy 365" bottles, stadium chairs and more! The items will be delivered to the Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) Athletic Office.   A percentage of each sale will benefit Mt. Vernon.  

The Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) Boys Basketball Team is inspiring Mt. Vernon elementary students to read by offering a reading contest now through February 6.  Students that meet each weekly reading goal will earn free admission to a home basketball game, be introduced at the varsity game halftime and be encouraged to stay after the game for an ice cream party with the players and cheerleaders.  The following are the weekly reading goals: Kindergarteners - 75 minutes, Grades 1-2 - 100 minutes, and Grades 3-5 - 125 minutes. 

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) has been recognized by the Indiana Department of Education as a school of Promising Practice in the area of International Exposure to Students.  MVCSC’s Promising Practice is one of 200 education or wrap-around service programs to be recognized by the Department in honor of Indiana’s bicentennial celebration.

Mt. Vernon students are taught lessons on kindness, respect, compassion, and other character-building traits beginning in elementary school.  Several Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) students demonstrated all of these as they supported their classmate, Ben Thompson, while he battled Lymphoma cancer his senior year at MVHS.  

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is launching a comprehensive International Exchange Program as part of the district’s effort to boost students’ global and intercultural awareness, curriculum engagement and potential future career opportunities.  Collaborations have begun with Anshan, China and Maioli County, Taiwan, with the goal to bring international students to Mt. Vernon Schools next year.  The initiative also includes a goal of sending MVCSC students and staff abroad.

#GivingTuesday is November 29 and the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) offers a tax-exempt reason to make a gift that will impact the education at Mt. Vernon Schools.  Providing over $200,000 in teacher-requested grants since 2008, MVEF enriches the educational experience of students in our community.

All MVCSC staff is asked to attend the Opening Day Breakfast on Friday, July 29 at 8:30 a.m.  It will be held in the Mt. Vernon High School Cafeteria, followed by mandatory annual training in the auditorium.  After the training, staff will be released to their respective buildings.

School Registration Information!  All schools have special registration days in July for students to get acclimated to their schools and for parents to get questions answered.  With the first day of school right around the corner on August 1, registration will be on the following days:

On April 20, Mt. Vernon and the Hancock County Health Department (HCHD) will be offering a vaccine clinic for incoming seniors and 6th graders who are accompanied by a parent/guardian.  The vaccine clinic will be located at the Mt. Vernon High School from 3:45 - 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 20.  HCHD will run the immunization charge through your insurance to make sure the shots are covered.  If your insurance doesn't cover immunizations or you don't have insurance, the shots will be FREE!

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is pleased to announce Greg Roach as the incoming Mt. Vernon High School principal, effective July 1, 2016.  After a thorough statewide search with over 20 applicants, MVCSC Superintendent Dr. Shane Robbins made the recommendation to the School Board Monday, March 14th at their regularly scheduled board meeting.

As students were preparing for ISTEP, Mt. Vernon staff was supporting students' efforts in a nurturing way while subduing any anxieties.  From cheering students in a hallway, to a lip dub video gone viral, to a supporting letter mailed to each student, Mt. Vernon staff let each child know how important they are.

What do new elementary playground equipment and early childhood literacy initiatives/Imagination Library have in common? The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF)! In a recent Y-GIVE Grant, all three Mt. Vernon Elementary Schools will split a grant to go towards playground equipment and educational materials.  The four-square courts, hopscotch, clocks, a special needs swing and math games will collectively enhance the educational and recreational tools students use in the school setting.  These new assets will add some additional structural activity to the students’ recess.

Join friends for an evening of fun, food & fellowship at the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF)'s "Taste of Mt. Vernon" presented by Erlewein Mortuary on Thursday, March 3rd, 6:30-9 p.m. at Adaggio's.  Adults, enjoy food samples from local restaurants, libations and an endless silent auction.  Business casual attire is recommended. 

The Mt. Vernon Middle School library received a $4,000 grant from bestselling author James Patterson to support school literacy initiatives.  The funds will be used to refurbish the nonfiction section, specifically biographies, sports/recreation and military topics.  The funding plans also include collaborating with language arts teachers on lessons that expose students to popular, current nonfiction books.  

During November and December, Mt. Vernon Community Schools’ philanthropic efforts impacted the local community and beyond.  These endeavors taught students about the personal rewards of charity and thinking about others. Staff and students united by giving to others in these various ways: 

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is seeking bus drivers to fill immediate openings.  Bus drivers have the ability to shape the future by working with children to start and end their day.  MVCSC is looking for friendly and dedicated bus drivers to join the team who enjoy spending time with children.

The Thank-an-Educator Program is an important part of Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) and the work that we all do as a community.  Each holiday season, MVEF gives families an opportunity to thank their teachers, coaches and all school employees with a personalized certificate and a tax-deductible gift to the MVEF.  The MVEF has supported all Mt. Vernon staff and students by awarding over $200,000 in staff-requested grants since 2008. 

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) School Board unanimously approved Superintendent Dr. Shane Robbins the authority to issue a letter of intent to withdraw its membership from the Hancock Madison Shelby Education Services, otherwise known as HMSES.  HMSES is a special education interlocal that services school districts from three different counties in East Central Indiana and is the same special education interlocal that Greenfield-Central schools withdrew from beginning this school year.  HMSES provides a variety of special education programs and services.

Throughout a student’s school career they learn positive character traits of being kind to others, treating people with respect, and giving back to the community.  Students are taught to practice positive character traits daily, but how many actually make a choice to make a substantial impact in a community? Three Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) students are supporting early childhood reading by creating a “Little Free Library” for each of the three Mt. Vernon elementary schools.  

As Mt. Vernon students are getting accustomed to their blended learning environment and Delayed Start Wednesdays, let’s add just one more benefit to the 1:1 Initiative: eLearning Days. Old man winter can provide many negatives, but this year families at Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) will experience a big positive with the weather challenges: learning will continue in spite of inclement weather.

Several Mt. Vernon Schools have focused on philanthropic or character-building activities the week of October 26.  Students had the opportunity to get involved by dressing up or wearing a certain color to represent each day’s charity or by making philanthropic donations.

The annual MVEF 5K & 1-Mile Family Fun Run is coming up this weekend!  The race is set to begin at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 26th.  You can register and/or DONATE by clicking "read more" for the link.

Story Written by:  Baylie Clevenger, MVHS Student and Managing Editor of “The MV Current Newspaper”

Along with delayed starts and Chromebooks, there are other innovations occurring at MVHS this year. One of these new improvements includes an addition of a world language class for the eighth grade. This program teaches Spanish and French to better prepare students for foreign language classes they may have to take in high school.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation’s first "Delayed Start Wednesday" was deemed successful by both students and staff.  In each building, staff participated in professional development activities using Professional Learning Communities or better known as PLCs.  This learning initiative will allow MVCSC staff to engage in meaningful training to support both school and district improvement initiatives.

Lights, Camera, Action!  Mt. Vernon High School Students will Produce a Live, Pre-Game Football Show on August 21st!  Students involved in "MVTV Productions" at Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) will be hosting a live, 30-minute pre-game show before the home MVHS football game against Hamilton Heights.  The community is invited to come watch the pre-game show which is set to air at 6:15 p.m. before the game kick-off at 7 p.m.  

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation will begin the delayed start program on Wednesday, August 19th and will continue every Wednesday throughout the school year in an effort to provide staff with frequent professional development.  This important initiative will allow MVCSC staff to engage in meaningful training to support school and district improvement. These important Professional Learning Communities (PLC) will ensure the MVCSC district remains on a path of continuous improvement.

Learn a few of the endless opportunities for Mt. Vernon High School students in this student-produced video!  Thanks to MVTV staff for this amazing introduction to MVHS, particularly Quaid Pearson who directed the video and Chris Mapes who provided the editing.  

When the Mt. Vernon community passed the referendum back in May 2014, no one guessed that Mt. Vernon Community Schools would have a positive General Fund balance in just over a year, which previously had a $3.6 million deficit.  

Thursday, July 30th is the first day of school for Mt. Vernon students. The details are listed below on where to find the information you'll need.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation has revised the transfer/open enrollment policy to allow additional transfer students for the 2015-2016 school year in all five schools.  The revised transfer/open enrollment policy states that Mt. Vernon Schools will accept students until building capacity is reached.  

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is requesting lawn care proposals for management of all grounds. Interested parties must attend a mandatory site walk-through at 10 a.m. Monday, July 6th, and bids are due by 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 15th.  

The June 19th Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) "Joel Young Memorial Chip in Fore Kids Golf Outing" is primed for golfers to enjoy the day.  The golf outing is one of the main fundraisers for the organization, who has given nearly 100 grants to school staff totaling over $132,000. 

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation Board of Education is seeking a new law firm or attorney to serve in the capacity of School Board Attorney.  The school's current attorney will be retiring June 30th after 34 years of service.  

Parents of incoming 6th grade students, review this orientation information to get the best start for the 2015-16 school year!

Welcome to the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation! Click "Read More" to watch the welcome video.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) officially opened the new onsite health clinic for staff on Wednesday, November 30.  Kellie Freeman (MVCSC School Board of Trustees), Andrea Mayfield (Activate Nurse Practitioner), Nancy Strickland (Fortville-McCordsville Chamber of Commerce Executive Director), Shane Robbins (MVCSC Superintendent), Jason Vore (Activate Vice President of Practice Operations), and Brian Tomamichel (MVCSC Chief Financial Officer) officially cut the ribbon to open the staff health clinic.    

If one listens closely, they should be able to hear the cheers from the homes of Mt. Vernon student athletes.  Beginning fall of 2015, Mt. Vernon Schools will no longer require the high school athletes to pay a $225 pay-to-participate fee and middle school students to pay the $100 fee.  

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is seeking a new superintendent to begin the second semester for the 2018-2019 school year.  The opportunity is at an ideal time for MVCSC; we are in a continued growth mode in both enrollment and programming, and are also fiscally sound.  MVCSC is rated an “A” school district and is the “First K-12 STEM Certified District” through the Indiana Department of Education. MVCSC is also the “First GenerationOn Certified District”, as well as a “Common Sense Media Certified District.”

Each holiday season, the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) gives families an opportunity to thank their teachers, coaches and all school employees with a personalized certificate and a tax-deductible gift to the MVEF.  The deadline is Sunday, December 17th!  The Thank-an-Educator Program is an important part of Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) and the work that we all do as a community.  The MVEF has supported all Mt. Vernon staff and students by awarding over $330,000 in staff-requested grants since 2008. 

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is inviting all realtors and home builders to attend a (free) breakfast on Wednesday, October 25 from 9 - 10:30 a.m. at the MVCSC Administrative Service Center.  Realtors will learn about Mt. Vernon Schools, meet Superintendent Dr. Robbins and conclude with a facility tour. 

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is inviting all realtors and home builders to attend a (free) breakfast on Wednesday, October 5 from 9 - 10:30 a.m. at the MVCSC Administrative Service Center board room.  Realtors will learn about Mt. Vernon Schools, meet Superintendent Dr. Robbins and conclude with a facility tour.  

Indiana State Law requires all students attending school to have complete and satisfactory immunization records on file at school.  All sixth grade students are required to have a Tdap and meningitis vaccine, and twelfth grade students are required to have a second meningitis vaccine.  Letters were mailed the week of November 7 to parents whose children have incomplete immunization records.  The letter explained that as of November 28, 2016, the student will be excluded from school and the absence will remain unexcused until proper immunization documentation is received. 

The Mt. Vernon Schools’ administrative team will incur an office change near the beginning of the school season.  Preparations are underway at the “old” Fortville Elementary School building to accommodate the additional office space needed by the school’s administration. 

On Friday December 1st at 1p.m., the Mt. Vernon High School history classes are inviting the community to attend a Welcome Home ceremony for all Vietnam and Korean War Veterans! High school students struggle to understand why these veterans weren't welcomed home since they grew up in a post-9/11 era.  This event gives the veterans a welcome home that they should have received years ago, and also teaches students a lesson they won’t receive from a textbook.

On Wednesday October 4 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m., the Mt. Vernon Middle School will be hosting its first International Dinner. It will be located in the newly built International Cafeteria which represents countries from all around the world

On Monday, August 21, 2017, all of North America will observe a rare eclipse of the sun. Anyone within the path of totality can see one of nature’s most awe-inspiring sights - a total solar eclipse.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation celebrated Veteran's Day at each of the five schools, honoring all those who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces.  All three Mt. Vernon elementary schools and the middle school honored veterans with a convocation emphasizing the sacrifice veterans have made.  The convocations included patriotic songs and videos, moving speeches and videos.  Veterans in attendance greatly appreciated the recognition.   

Wide-eyed students and inquisitive parents listened intently at the 1:1 Computer Device Initiative presentation led by Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation’s new Superintendent, Dr. Robbins.  The Mt. Vernon High School auditorium was respectably full with curious community members as they learned details about how their children will now be on the forefront of technology in education.  

Mt. Vernon recently earned the recognition of being a Common Sense media district. This publicly demonstrates that Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is dedicated to providing safe, trustworthy information regarding the Internet, technology, and media to those living in the community.  Parents can use the “Common Sense Media” resource through the “Forms & Resources” webpage under the “Parents” tab.

The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) is hosting the 2018 Joel Young Memorial Chip in Fore Kids Golf Outing on July 13th, 2018 at Arrowhead Golf Course in Greenfield. The scramble is $95 per person or $350 for a foursome. Register at: https://www.universe.com/mvefgolf2018

It's time for Kindergarten Registration!  Visit any of the three elementary schools on April 9, 10 or 12.   It is imperative to have all Kindergarten students register so the schools may prepare enough teachers to keep the class size low.  Registration can be done at ANY of the three sites for any of the three schools; just list what school you will be attending at registration.  MVCSC will have FULL day kindergarten only.

Mark your calendars! On Thursday, February 22nd from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) will be having a Digital Safety and Showcase Night in the Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) Auditorium.

The holidays are all about giving and being a blessing to others, and the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) would love for you to donate and support them during this time of giving. Giving Tuesday is the perfect opportunity to help and show your support. It is a global day of giving that is fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Giving Tuesday is on November 28 this year, but donations can be made anytime www.MtVernonFoundation.org. The MVEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, so all donations are tax-deductible.

The Mt. Vernon Adult Athletic Booster Club (aka Marauders Athletic Club) will be hosting a back-to-school event that is sure to bring fun and entertainment for people of all ages!  The Back To School Booster Blast is a community event that will offer everything from bounce houses and inflatables, to dunk tanks, BBQ and a cornhole tournament.

In preparation for the unpredictable Indiana winter ahead, Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) students in grades K-8 participated in a mock eLearning day. An eLearning session is designed to provide instruction via technology that would have otherwise taken place in the classroom. MVCSC students and teachers are familiar with the use of technology in the classroom having implemented a 1:1 technology initiative last year.  In the event that MVCSC administration determined that winter weather had made the roads unsafe for travel, an eLearning day would be initiated. Through this mock session teachers and students were able to add a little fun to the process by wearing their pajamas while completing the day’s instruction.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation school board honored the 2015 retirees, school board scholars and academic wall of fame at the June 15th school board meeting.

The Mt. Vernon School Board has completed extensive research with the community in preparation for a new superintendent.  Superintendent Dr. Riggs is scheduled to retire in June 2015.  The research process began in the fall by discussing with community stakeholders qualifications criteria for the new superintendent.  The Mt. Vernon School Board has enlisted the support of university doctorial advisors, several organizations, students and staff to collaborate on the incoming superintendent's profile.  The school board is grateful for the community's input which directed the final profile.

The superintendent profile highlights the experience, characteristics and skills needed for the new superintendent, with the new contract scheduled to begin July 2015.  Applications are accepted through February 13th, with interviews scheduled for March.  The ideal situation is to have the new superintendent work with Dr. Riggs a few months before he retires.  The superintendent vacancy announcement and and application are linked here.

One of the goals of the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation has been to continue to improve the international program. In order to achieve this goal, a group of five staff members; Mrs. Heather Noesges, Mrs. Amy Tucker, Mrs. Nicole Privett, Mrs. Delinda Deckard, and Mrs. Stacy Muffler, took a twelve day trip to Anshan, China in hopes of enhancing the educational practices in China schools.

In celebration of the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation’s (MVEF) 10th Anniversary, a special Kaleidoscope Gala is being held on Saturday, April 14, 2018 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. We hope you will join us!  Nearly 150 tickets have been sold to date; hurry and order yours today before the event is sold out!

Interested students in grades 6-12 are invited to participate in one 3-hour school-sponsored community service project (morning or afternoon) on our eLearning Day on Wednesday, September 20th.  This is purely voluntary, and students are still expected to complete all eLearning assignments for that day.

Congratulations to the Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) White Squad who placed second at the Indiana Cheer Championship with the title of State Runner-Up.

Beginning with the 2015-2016 school year, all Mt. Vernon students and staff will be immersed in a technology-rich environment with individual computer devices.  The computer device will be an additional educational tool to engage students and increase student achievement.  This initiative will provide a blended learning environment, combining a digital curriculum and traditional textbook methods of instruction.  This will also allow the MVCSC District to utilize e-learning days for inclement weather thus eliminating the need for future make-up days.

After April 20th, anyone visiting Mt. Vernon schools or administration will have to be "buzzed in" by the front office to enter the buildings.  In addition, staff will have new photo ID cards which allow building access.

The title of a School Board Scholar is awarded to students who earn an “A” or an “A+” in every class for the duration of the school year. The students must also be enrolled full time for at least 160 days and have grades for all four quarters of the school year.

Parents/guardians who are listed as the primary guardian in Skyward and students (grades kindergarten through grade 12) should plan on attending the MVCSC Centralized Registration on Thursday, July 19.  The Centralized Registration will be held from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. at the Mt. Vernon High School main gym (door #17).

Mt. Vernon Middle School challenged each student, team and grade level to read more books than they have before.  The result was astounding!  A combined 5,103 books were read by grades 6-8! 

The Mt. Vernon Middle School's 8th Grade Awards and Promotion Ceremony proved to be full of hopes, dreams and many celebrations.  Entertainment was provided by the band and choir performing uplifting musical pieces.

The much-awaited Walk on Water science experiment prooved to be another exciting year as middle school teams constructed floats for a team member to "walk" across the pool.

In partnership with the Indiana Department of Education, the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is pleased to announce that MVCSC is the first school district in Indiana to be STEM certified in all grades Kindergarten through Grade 12.  This confirmation follows IDOE’s announcement that all five MVCSC schools recently received the rigorous STEM certification, making MVCSC the only and first district in the state with this K-12 achievement.

On Thursday, March 15th, the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) is offering our community the dream of a lifetime - participants will play basketball on the home court of the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse!  The MVEF is looking for players, teams, and or businesses to sponsor teams and live every basketball player’s dream!

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) will now offer spirit wear to the community through November 16.  Consumers can order shirts, sweatshirts, golf shirts, car decals and stadium chairs before November 16 and the items will be delivered to the Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) Athletic Office in early December prior to winter break.  A percentage of each sale will benefit Mt. Vernon.  Order now as the first 25 orders will receive a thank you gift from MVCSC!

Approximately 80 sixth and seventh graders who read one million words this school year were challenged with a messy, muddy, and exciting obstacle course.  A video, pictures and details are in the article.  The cross country trail behind Mt. Vernon High School and Fortville Elementary School was turned into a 10-station “Read for Your Lives” challenge course for the afternoon.  Dana Hochstedler, Mt. Vernon Middle School Media Specialist, along with Tanya Lott, Media Assistant, kept track of students’ word counts through the year and also spent many hours organizing the challenge course for the students.

Please join us in honoring Dr. Bill Riggs for his 21 years of Mt. Vernon leadership at his retirement reception on Sunday, May 17th from 1-3 p.m. at the Fortville Elementary Cafeteria. The entire community is invited; children too!

The Teacher of the Year award has been re-established for the staff at Mt. Vernon and is sponsored by the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF).  Each of the five schools nominated two teachers to be recognized for their outstanding commitment to their students, being an exemplary leader as well as for their dedication to the teaching profession.

Join us for the 8th annual Mt. Vernon Education Foundation 5k and 1 mile family fun color run/walk! Who doesn't want to be colorful? Here's an easy way to be colorful, exercise, and support a good cause.

Superintendent Dr. Shane Robbins is inviting the community to join him for lunch during the "Soup with the Supe" days.  Community members can grab your own lunch on the second Thursday of specific months and enjoy an open-forum discussion.  Dr. Robbins will share an update of the status of Mt. Vernon Schools, and then the discussion is based on the attendees' topics.  Come meet Dr. Robbins and hear his thoughts on a variety of subjects.

Mt. Vernon Schools include character and good citizenship in the life lessons learned at school.  Giving back to the community is not just verbally taught but is learned by example.  Ashley Schenck, Event Lead for the Mt. Vernon Relay for Life and fifth grade teacher at McCordsville Elementary School, estimated that approximately 75% of the recent Relay for Life participants were Mt. Vernon staff, students, alumni or Mt. Vernon families.

Mt. Vernon's school nurse, Michelle Shaw, saved a life over spring break by performing CPR on a victim. Shaw teaches all high school students CPR training.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation has qualified to provide free, nutritious breakfast and lunches this summer to any and all children ages 18 and younger.  The program is made available through the USDA Summer Food Service Program.

The MVMS PTO has partnered with 1st Day School Supplies to help you get the exact supplies your student needs for the 2018 - 19 school year. Save yourself the aggravation of fighting the crowds by shopping from the comfort of home. 

Over the years, the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) has experienced increased student enrollment.  With the construction of the elementary schools and renovation of the high school, the district is in pretty good shape, with one sticking point.  Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS), which currently houses grades 6-7, has not seen a great deal of renovation over the years.  The original construction was designed to hold three grade levels, however, as enrollment increased over the years, trying to do that posed quite a challenge and the district moved the composition to two grade levels.

Mt. Vernon Schools' new superintendent, Dr. Shane Robbins, began his mission of being visible in the buildings by meeting staff at each of the five schools.  His contract officially begins July 1, 2015.  

Mt. Vernon National Honor Society Raised $5,303 for Riley Hospital with Penny Wars – More Funds to Come with Riley Dance Marathon April 10th. Funds go towards "Magic Castle Cart" and "Palliative Care".
 

All Mt. Vernon schools recently participated in the Unified Champion Special Olympics. The Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools brings together athletes with and without disabilities to train and compete on the same team. Unified Champions is an inclusive event designed for all Mt. Vernon students to participate regardless of athletic, intellectual, ambulatory or functional abilities. All of the Mt. Vernon schools participated in the Unified Champion Special Olympics on specified days where they competed at the track and participated in fun activities.

How can high school students connect their academics with preschoolers? Through an app of course! The Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) Web Design students are creating a website hosting individual apps for preschoolers to use on iPads.  The individual preschooler's apps will feature their favorite color, letter and other items of interest, right after they click on their picture to open it.  

After receiving first place in a regional competition, Mt. Vernon Middle School Science and Social Studies Academic Teams placed 4th and 8th, respectively, in the state competition.

Mt. Vernon Middle School 8th Graders celebrated Black History Month in February with a live concert featuring Assistant Principal Ben Williams on the drums.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Mrs. Heather Noesges and Mr. Chris Smedley have been selected to serve as the Interim Co-Superintendents for the district.  Dr. William Carnes, a retired Superintendent from Whitley County Consolidated Schools and former Interim Superintendent at Hamilton Southeastern Schools, will also serve in an external, advisory capacity. 

Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) and Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) have both received distinguished honors from the Indiana Association of Student Councils for their top-rated student governments.  Student leadership standards that councils must demonstrate include: communication, organization, managerial skills, citizenship, service learning, character, goal setting, group process, decision-making, self awareness, diversity, conflict resolution and business skills, 

Out of 900 Varsity News Network (VNN) websites in the nation, MaraudersAthletics.com has ranked #40 for the month of April, with 20,420 page views.  

Each Mt. Vernon school raised $1,000 to meet the goal set by the Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) as challenge to county education foundations. The $5,000 was matched by HCCF for a $12,500 total donation to the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation.

On Friday, April 27, author Helen Frost came to the Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) to discuss her poem Hidden as a way to celebrate National Poetry Month.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) has launched a convenient mobile app for the community to access school information. The free app, identified by the MVCSC district seal, can be found in the app store by searching “Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation.” 

Mt. Vernon High School and Mt. Vernon Middle School start times have switched for the 2016-2017 school year.  Beginning Monday, August 1, Mt. Vernon High School hours will be 8:25 a.m. - 3:20 p.m., and Mt. Vernon Middle School hours will be 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  The two schools' hours have switched to help with both bus traffic and overflow of pick-up lines.  

Mt. Vernon Middle School Principal, Scott Shipley, and Mt. Comfort Elementary Principal, Heather Whitaker, have graduated from the Indiana Principal Leadership Institute (IPLI).  

Mt. Vernon Middle School Honor Roll and Straight A students enjoy the perks of "Flying Aces!" Good grades enabled them a chance at winning prizes.

Did you know a student in our Mt. Vernon family is fighting a challenging disease called Mitochondrial Disease?  He is stepping out of his quiet comfort zone to educate the community on his disease, while his peers fundraised to provide him with an experience of a lifetime.  The 8th grade students, the Mt. Vernon Middle School and High School staff, and friends/family members donated over $1,700 for Jakeb’s animal adventures!  Soon he will swim with the dolphins at the Indianapolis Zoo and paint with animals.  The remaining money will be used to buy him books and give his family an annual membership to the Indiana State Museum, Eiteljorg or Indianapolis Zoo.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation has partnered with a company to provide a free bus app for parents/guardians.  This "Don't Miss the Bus" app will help parents/guardians send their child to the bus stop at exactly the right time, especially during inclement weather. 

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is an inspiring initiative that is growing at the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) with a new robotics team.  This elementary and middle school robotics team recently competed in a regional competition and won first place, which enters them in the state tournament in Fort Wayne.

The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) has awarded over 100 teacher-requested grants totaling over $150,000 to Mt. Vernon schools.  Come support MVEF by walking/running a mile with your family, or sign up for the 5K at the 5K/1M Family Fun Run sponsored by the Hancock Regional Hospital on Saturday, September 24.  The MVEF Race begins at the Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) track, with the 5K beginning at 8:30 a.m. and the 1 Mile soon after.  

The definitions of well-rounded and experienced have a new definition.  Dr. William “Shane” Robbins comes to Mt. Vernon as the former superintendent for the Northwestern Consolidated School District of Shelby County with many accomplishments, accolades, and strong, relevant experience.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is excited to announce that the Indiana Department of Education has designated all five schools in the district as STEM Certified schools.   The Superintendent at the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, Dr. Shane Robbins, stated “When I first arrived to the district I listened to our communities call for a greater amount of STEM education in our schools.  Our students and staff across all disciplines have embraced this initiative and we are excited to celebrate our achievements with everyone who has worked tirelessly to achieve this recognition.”

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation was recently awarded an energy efficiency improvement rebate from NineStar Connect.  The Power Moves Rebate Program offers rebates to NineStar Connect electric members for qualifying energy efficiency projects.  The Power Moves Program is offered in cooperation with NineStar Connect’s generation and transmission provider Wabash Valley Power Association.

Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) students received a motivational and fun afternoon as they prepared for the ISTEP test to take place.  The afternoon consisted of an inspirational speaker, Josh Bleill, a $1,500 check presentation to the Wounded Warriors, followed by an ISTEP pep rally with raffle giveaways and teacher vs. student games.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation hosted a legislative breakfast with Speaker Bosma, Senator Crider and Representative Cherry on the panel.  All Hancock County public schools' administration and board members were in attendance, along with representatives from South Madison and Shelby Eastern districts.

The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) has employed a new part-time executive director to bring a new vision and revival to the foundation.  Mrs. Renee Oldham comes to MVEF from the city of Richmond and brings much experience and energy to grow the foundation.

Mt. Vernon Middle School was recently named an "Honor Council" for the 11th time by the Indiana Association of Student Councils.  In April, the student council chaired Riley Days which raised $1,952 for Riley Hospital.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is officially the first GenerationOn Indiana school district! MVCSC is taking great strides to provide the best opportunities possible for their students. One way MVCSC provides opportunities is by teaching the importance of giving back, specifically through community service. As a GenerationOn Indiana school district, MVCSC will help further these student driven philanthropic efforts.

Superintendent Dr. Shane Robbins is inviting the community to join him for lunch during the "Soup with the Supe" days. 

The all staff meeting on Friday, July 28 kicked off the start of a great year!  After breakfast, all staff went into the Mt. Vernon High School auditorium for a presentation.  New staff were introduced and welcomed to the MVCSC team.

Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) is offering Mandarin Chinese to students this fall, bringing with it a Taiwanese teacher and direct exposure to the Chinese culture.  This program begins a new international partnership with the Ministry of Education in Taiwan and the Indiana Department of Education to MVHS.

The Mt. Vernon School Board recently approved a 2015-2018 strategic plan that addresses: 1-1 technology (one computer device to one student/staff), the intermediate program (grades 5-6), personnel and staff wages.

At the Mt. Comfort Airport, it won’t be long before a sea of American flags are honoring our service personnel.  Our partners at the Exchange Clubs of Hancock County and Lawrence will be posting 800-1,000 American flags to honor living or fallen Fire Personnel, Police Officers, Military and Veterans as a way to say, “thank you for your service!”  

Mt. Vernon's successful Digital Safety Night was kicked off with Superintendent Dr. Shane Robbins providing opening remarks about the importance of keeping students safe and learning about digital safety. He thanked the attendees for being there and the technology department for all their efforts every day to keep students safe. 

IUPUI had some big dreamers visiting their campus on September 29!  As a part of the Hancock County Promise, nearly 1,000 kindergarteners flooded the IUPUI campus and was involved in activities that helped inspire their futures beyond high school.  This inaugural event was held at IUPUI’s Michael A. Carroll Stadium.  

What is the best way to welcome the new freshmen into the high school? At Mt. Vernon High School, the best way to become orientated is by having a dance off, touring the high school, playing fun games, and eating pizza. Students in the mentoring program taught the incoming freshmen all of the ropes and rules of high school while still having fun!

The Mt. Vernon High School Band (MVHS) received 80 new instruments and a 28’ platform observation tower from the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) Board of School Trustees. As a result of the band’s success and the school’s support, marching band membership has increased 53%, or 31 members since 2015.  The high school band program has increased 27%, or 21 members since 2015.  The MVHS band also earned an Indiana State School Music Association 2015-16 “All-Music Award” for its achievements for the 2015-2016 school year.

The MVMS continues to have great results with the Algebra 1 End of Course Assessment.  In 2014 100% of the Algebra 1 students passed the state exam.  The Algebra 1 students are in 8th grade and work hard all school year to pass this exam.  

Previous records for MVMS show 98% passing in 2013, and then another 100% passing in 2012.  Excellent teachers, focused students, and great leadership attribute to the success of these scores.  

Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) recently hosted a convocation for all students about the harmful effects of vaping and drug use.  Every MVHS student listened to an informative presentation in the auditorium about the harmful effects of drugs, especially vaping and marijuana.

Several Mt. Vernon students could have stayed at home on the couch for their planned e-Learning day; instead, over 130 Mt. Vernon students chose to volunteer in the community and work on various service projects.  Mt. Vernon consistently teaches and offers student opportunities to help the community, while developing strong character traits and building citizenship in students.

The Superintendent of MVCSC, Dr. Shane Robbins, is being activated in support of disaster relief for Hurricane Irma. The “Soup with the Supe” lunch is cancelled on Thursday, September 14.  

On July 27, incoming freshmen students filled the Mt. Vernon High School gym for "Freshman Kick-Off 2016".  The high school orientation featured student mentors, a.k.a. Marauder Mentors, who answered questions, gave advice and soothed the anxious underclassmen.

The MVMS Student Council has been named an Honor Council for the 10th year.  The Indiana Association of Student Councils (IASC) is the governing body for the MVMS Student Council and has high standards for student leadership.  Some of the criteria that was considered include student communications, citizenship, service learning, character, goal setting, group process, decision-making and business skills among others.  

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is achieving academic excellence and has recently been awarded an “A” District by the Indiana Department of Education. Within the school corporation, three of its schools have also received an “A” rating.

Mt. Vernon Schools serves many amazing students, not only through academics, but also in teaching the importance of community service work and giving to others in need. One student, Hunter Lenk, has gone above and beyond to help homeless people in the community stay warm during the winter.

The last two weeks of the school year, Fortville Elementary School’s student council piloted a food rescue program that will be launched district-wide in the fall of 2016.   Students place any packaged, unopened/untampered food in marked bins, which is then collected daily and donated to the Kenneth Butler Memorial Soup Kitchen in Greenfield.  Some of the foods collected were: milk, cheese sticks, yogurts, crackers, packaged fruits and vegetables.

The 2014 Social Studies Academic Super Bowl became another proud moment for the MVMS students.  The Indiana Association of School Principals hosts the contests, with MVMS in the state class 1 of the junior division.  

MVMS has had great success previously with the Academic Super Bowls with the Social Studies crew receiving a Top Ten award in 2013, and the Science team ranked #3 in the state in 2013.  

One goal of STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) is to engage students in hands-on STEM concepts, entice the love of learning and possibly fuel their passion to pursue these fields.  The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) has heard the call loud and clear from STEM-related industries needing a larger workforce pool.  MVCSC has added three STEM teachers this year, is developing a “Makerspace” at the high school, and is pursuing becoming a STEM certified district from the IDOE.

Academics aren’t the only aspect taught at the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation. Philanthropy, kindness, and reaching out to those in need are some of the other lessons that students are taught from early childhood to graduation.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation now has wi-fi on all buses!  Please see the attached statement below from Superintendent Dr. Robbins that explains how students gain access to the wi-fi. 

Fortville Elementary School (FES) hosted the first Mt. Vernon Camp Invention this summer.  Many elementary students (kindergarten through grade 6) and camp counselors inspired students to create, engage and invent their desires.  During this high-energy week, students are involved in fun, hands-on challenges that encourage creative problem solving, teamwork, entrepreneurship and innovation.  New curriculum is introduced each year, inspired by the Inductees of the National Inventors Hall of Fame!

Mt. Vernon High School's Center Stage Choir recently returned from performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City.  The Center Stage choir performed beautifully with nearly 275 other singers and were awarded the opportunity to work with Dr. Daniel Bara, Director of Choral Activities at the University of Georgia, and Dr. Deanna Joseph, Director of Choral Activities at Georgia State University. The students rehearsed for a total of 10 hours over the weekend.

At the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, students at Fortville Elementary School made the "Day Turn into Night" PJ party all day.  Small groups of supervised students went outside with special ISO glasses to view the solar eclipse.  Students were monitored closely, and we even had some parent volunteers assist with the supervision. Students were truly in awe of the eclipse!

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) was selected to host Education Delegates from the Republic of Korea to discuss the use of STEM education and visit the modern integration of technology in MVCSC classrooms.  

Several Mt. Vernon staff were honored and recognized at the inaugural end-of-year staff breakfast for the following years of service:  5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40.  Becky Johnson and Marcia Marshall celebrated 40 years at MVCSC!

MVCSC is pleased to share that the Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents just announced that Dr. Shane Robbins is the district 5's SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR!

Many Mt. Vernon High School Seniors made a difference throughout the community on Senior Work Day.  Each senior signed up to work from 9 a.m. - noon, and were divided into six locations performing various duties.  Their day of service was followed by a cookout with Superintendent Dr. Robbins and the administration team grilling at the track.  After lunch they picked up their cap/gown in preparation for graduation next week.

Many exciting changes are coming for Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) with new staff roles!  Please see highlights of a few of the staff changes at Fortville Elementary, Mt. Comfort Elementary and Mt. Vernon Middle School.

The Class of 2016's graduation went off without a hitch on May 27th.  There were 303 seniors, four juniors and three foreign exchange students who walked the stage to receive their diploma.  The graduates seemed ready to move on to their bright futures, prepared with one of the finest academic settings in the state.

Superintendent Dr. Robbins, on behalf of the School Board of Trustees of the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, recognized three outstanding staff members at recent school board meetings. Mrs. Nikki Privett, Mrs. Amy Hoeppner, and Mrs. Maria Bond were all awarded for their phenomenal efforts to make the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation a safe and welcoming place for students to learn and grow.

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At the June School Board of Trustees meeting, the School Board recognized students who have excelled in their academic careers during the year 2016-2017.  Before the meeting, the School Board Scholars and their families were treated to a dinner reception, prior to receiving their award.  The students who were recognized for their outstanding achievement in the "Academic Hall of Fame" were recognized during annual board meeting.  Congratulations to all these outstanding students for your work ethic, intelligence and determination to excel in academics!

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) celebrated the six retirees with a reception at the administrative service center on Sunday, May 21.  Current and former staff, their families and members of the community came together to honor the retirees for their dedication and contributions made to MVCSC.  Together, the six retirees have accumulated 130 years!

The Mt. Vernon High School International Academy is making its impact in students' lives, potentially changing their futures with a global influence. At the April Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation School Board of Trustees meeting, several Mandarin Chinese students spoke about the practical application of their learning.  

Several Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (VMCSC) staff were recognized at the innaugural end-of-year staff breakfast.  Staff were recognized by Superintendent Dr. Shane Robbins and received a gift for the following years at MVCSC: 5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 years of service.

Brian Tomamichel, Chief Financial Officer for the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation was recently honored by the Association of School Business Officials International with its 2017 Pinnacle of Achievement Award for an innovative program that leveraged use of credit card rebates to fund a 1:1 program in the district.

During Teacher Appreciation Week, Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) Superintendent Dr. Robbins served the entire staff, one school at a time.  Dr. Robbins and the administration team grilled hot dogs, hamburgers, and bratwurst at each of the five schools.  Each day of the week featured the administration team serving many thankful staff from two grills and tables filled with plenty of sides and fixings.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation led the county initiative to secure all Hancock County schools to collaborate and provide CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings accounts for all Hancock County kindergarteners.  We are proud to announce that Hancock County received a grant from the Promise Indiana organization to support the county in this initiative, beginning in the fall for the 2017-2018 school year.  This "Hancock County Promise" will impact approximately 1,000 kindergarteners each year, building hope for bright futures of a post-secondary education.  

Fortville Elementary School and McCordsville Elementary School recently celebrated the month of racing by hosting "Kindy 500."  All kindergartners decorate a box as a race car, and race or take a lap in front of an audience of parents.  The festivities end with medals, milk, and lots of smiles.

Congratulations to the Mt. Vernon Middle School Science, English and Social Studies Academic Teams for placing in the state Academic Super Bowl (Junior Division)!  

In an effort to make the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) website accessible for those with disabilities, many features are now available to help the disabled access content on the MVCSC website.  MVCSC is committed to an accessible website initiative.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) celebrated the ten retirees with a reception at the administrative service center on Sunday, May 22.  Current and former staff, their families and members of the community came together to honor the retirees for their dedication and contributions made to MVCSC.  Together, the retirees have 231 years of service to MVCSC.  

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) will host summer school for current grades Kindergarten through 12th grade.  Both remediation and enrichment will be provided in the content areas of reading, language arts and mathematics, as well as endless class options for high school credit.  

An administrative team from the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) expanded the International Exchange program to Anshan, China.  The MVCSC team signed agreements with two schools and the Anshan City Bureau of Education (which allows for exchanges with any school in Anshan, China), as well as developed relationships with the Anshan team.

The 8 Grade Academy's Walk-on-Water science experiment was a splashing success!  Over 70 teams competed in the project that challenged students to use their critical thinking skills.  The team had to build a float that would allow one member of their team to "walk" across the length of the pool.  The floats were not tested until the day of the challenge. 

Through aggressive financial tactics, increased state funding, and a continued growth in student enrollment the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation can boast a positive General Fund cash balance.  It is for these reasons, the Board of School Trustees voted at their May 16, 2016 monthly board meeting to not collect the third and final year of the General Fund Referendum.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is now a Unified Champion School District!  Join in the fun on the following field days: Preschool 5/10, Elementary 5/16, Middle School 5/17.  Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools is a program that engages schools in creating climates of inclusion, acceptance, respect and human dignity for ALL students.  It brings together athletes with and without disabilities to train and compete on the same team.

The local Mt. Vernon Optimist Club held an oratorical contest with several Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) students participating.  The theme for this year's speech was "What the World Gains from Optimism."  The first place winners, Jennifer McGowen and Josh Ratliff, will advance to the district contest in Anderson.  District winners will then advance to a regional contest and national contest with an award of $15,000.

During Teacher Appreciation Week, Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) Superintendent Dr. Robbins served the entire staff, one school at a time.  Dr. Robbins and the administration team grilled hot dogs, hamburgers and bratwurst at each of the five schools.  Each day of the week featured the administration team serving many thankful staff from two grills and tables filled plenty of sides and fixings.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is implementing a culture that inspires young students in Hancock County to pursue a post-secondary education.  This fall, MVCSC and all Hancock County schools will be offering kindergarteners an opportunity to open their own 529 account, initially funded by community partners.  MVCSC’s Director of Special Programs, Scott Shipley, is coordinating the “Hancock County Promise” and seeking a grant through Promise Indiana to help fund the inspiring program.

The Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) raised $2,414.53 for Riley Hospital during “Riley Week.”  The week’s festivities included dress up days, dodge ball tournament, and homeroom fundraising competition sponsored by the Student Council.  Grades 6-8’s teams/classes challenged their students to raise a specified amount up to $500.  The school had an overall challenge of raising $2,000.  If they met their team/class goal, their teacher would jump in the pool in front of a student-filled audience.

Mt. Vernon High School’s National Honor Society (NHS) is sponsoring Riley Dance Marathon on Friday, April 28 with a goal of raising $10,000 for Riley Hospital.  With a $5 admission charge, Mt. Vernon High School students can attend the Riley Dance Marathon from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., and the public can attend from 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.  If the community cannot attend and wants to support the fundraiser, visit THIS LINK.  Currently, the NHS organization has 53 members supporting this initiative.   

The U.S. News & World Report ranked Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) as #28 in the state (out of 420 Indiana high schools) and #1,987 in the nation (out of 28,561 U.S. public high schools).  This is the third year in a row for MVHS to rank within the top 30 in Indiana.  The Marauders were one of 46 schools in Indiana that received a silver award.  See the full report linked here.  MVHS was the highest ranked high school in the county.

MVCSC will open a new general education Mini-Marauder preschool on August 1 for all children ages 3-5.  The cost is appealing at only $125/week, which is anticipated to be the most cost-effective price-point in the area.  MVCSC is now accepting enrollment applications which can be found at www.preschool.mvcsc.k12.in.us.

How could ambulances, fire trucks, and a lifeline helicopter at Mt. Vernon High School be a positive thing?  The extraordinary experience of "Operation Safe Prom" taught all juniors and seniors at MVHS about the consequences of impaired driving, whether that be from drinking, phone distractions, radio or other distractions.  Students saw the aftermath of their peers who had been -in a mock setting- driving impaired and were in a fatal car crash.  One was life-lined, a couple walked away, one went in an ambulance, and one passed away at the scene in this mock setting.

Blue, the Indianapolis Colts mascot, visited Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) at the beginning of the school year and challenged all students to "Be the Best You Can Be."  Through this challenge, MVMS demonstrated throughout the year how they 1) fuel up with healthy foods and are physically active 60 minutes a day 2) kicked bullying out of the school, and 3) how the students are being the best they can be in the classroom.   

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is launching several new features to the bus fleet, enhancing safety and cost savings.  New external bus cameras and a bus app that allows parents to see in real-time where the bus is will enhance the safety and security for Mt. Vernon students.  In addition, all buses will have wi-fi available for students to use during their ride by the end of this school year.

When you enter fifth grade teacher Lauren Bailey’s classroom, it is not uncommon to see students sitting on large exercise balls, practicing math on their iPads, all while Mrs. Bailey reads them a novel.  This is education in the 21st Century; this holistic approach to education provides a physical outlet for students while activating core muscle groups and stimulating their cognitive skills. The physical stimulation enhances their motor skills, while the use of touch to complete math functions engages the left side of the brain, all while listening to a novel (impacting the right side of the brain).  This integration stimulates three of the five senses providing a comprehensive learning environment.

All Mt. Vernon elementary schools and Mt. Vernon Middle School participated in "Penny Wars" during March to benefit the Imagination Library Fund.  Together they raised $1,075.62 to help with early childhood literacy through the Imagination Library Fund at the Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF).  The HCCF matched $ .50 for each $1 to bring the grand contribution to $1,613.42.  Heather Noesges (middle), Principal of Fortville Elementary School, presented the check with a few students to Mary Gibble (left), President of the Hancock County Community Foundation.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) received a $75,000 Digital Learning Grant from the Indiana Department of Education to support two digital learning instructional coaches, eLearning professional development and computer device replacement.

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is on a mission to expand students' world views and provide cross-culture experiences.  The Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) Mandarin Chinese Teacher, Yi-Fan Lin from Taiwan, recently offered a Chinese New Year celebration for students to engage in various Chinese activities.  Another recent international experience was having Yan Long, a visitor from China, share her Chinese culture with McCordsville Elementary School students.  

The Mt. Vernon High School Youth Board recently received a $1,000 grant to benefit the elementary school playgrounds. Both Fortville Elementary and Mt. Comfort Elementary will receive four-square courts, hopscotch, clocks and math games to enhance their educational and recreational tools.  McCordsville Elementary will receive a special needs swing.

Stay up-to-date with Dr. Robbins "2016 State of the Corporation" address.  Click "Read More" to see the video.

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation’s Superintendent, Dr. Shane Robbins, recently graduated from the National Superintendent's Academy.  He was one of 32 school leaders from across the country invited to participate in the program.  The National Superintendent’s Academy was established to prepare school leaders with the tools to address the looming leadership deficit, and to provide a focused alternative or supplement to traditional superintendent training and certification programs.

What do Glenda Ritz, entrepreneurship and sharks have in common? At McCordsville Elementary, State Superintendent Glenda Ritz is visiting the fourth grade simulation of “Shark Tank” on Friday, March 11th at 1:30 p.m. (visitation schedule is subject to change).  Student groups are currently busy presenting their entrepreneurship ideas to their classrooms, a few of which include: fruit and vegetable popsicles, hot hands (gloves with battery-operated warmers), fashion friend (a fathead picture of yourself on an easel where clothes are pinned on to provide a visual) and a robot that scans for people trespassing in school buildings, among many other unique ideas.

Mt. Vernon Middle School 8th Graders celebrated Black History Month on Friday, February 3rd with an annual live concert featuring Principal Benjamin Williams on the drums and an all-star line up of local pro musicians. This event, for the 6th year in a row, is a part of the celebration of February's Black History Month.