Prexy Pages

Honoring Achievements and Building Bridges

As we move through February, I want to take a moment to highlight the meaningful work happening across Marion City Schools. This month, we recognize Black History Month, and celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month.

Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements, leadership, and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. In our schools, we are engaging students in meaningful learning experiences that celebrate the past, recognize the present, and inspire the future.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month highlights the hands-on learning and career preparation that equip our students with real-world skills. Our classrooms, labs, and industry partnerships provide students with valuable experiences that prepare them for high-demand careers and lifelong learning. We are proud of the educators and community partners who make these opportunities possible.

More details about each of these topics can be found in this month’s newsletter. Thank you for your continued support in making Marion City Schools a place of opportunity, learning, and growth for every student.

Sincerely,
Brian Murphy
Superintendent, Marion City Schools

Black History Month: Celebrating Leadership and Legacy in Marion

The Peace and Freedom Committee of Marion recently hosted a special event to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The morning included a community breakfast with local leaders, including the mayor and chief of police, followed by an awards ceremony recognizing the achievements of Marion City students. Superintendent Brian Murphy was honored to attend and connect with students, including a bright first grader from Harrison Elementary, capturing the spirit of the day.

One of the committee's most inspiring initiatives has been the creation of children’s books written by Marion community members—primarily women of color—that highlight local history and the Black experience in Marion. These books are now being purchased by the district and placed in our elementary and middle school libraries.

Empowering the Next Generation: Sawubona Program at GMS

At Grant Middle School, the Sawubona Program is creating a meaningful impact by building confidence, self-esteem, and cultural awareness among young Black and Brown girls. This 36-week mentorship program provides a safe, trauma-informed space for students ages 12-15 to express themselves creatively, emotionally, and academically. Due to overwhelming interest, the program launched with two groups—one for 6th grade students and another for 7th and 8th graders—to ensure more students could benefit from this experience.

Led by Program Director Josephine Pittman, Sawubona offers in-school and after-school mentorship, interactive storytelling, social-emotional learning, and Empowerment Self-Defense. Monthly Wisdom Talks from successful Black women and women of color further inspire and guide participants.

With a mission rooted in the meaning of "Sawubona"—"I see you", this initiative ensures that every student feels valued, heard, and supported. We are proud to support this program as it nurtures leadership and self-worth in our young women.

Robotics: A Fantastic Showing at Brookside

Our GMS Robotics team continues to impress! At their third competition of the season, the students did an outstanding job, particularly considering that many of them were finishing their robots just the day before the event. Here's a look at some of the well-deserved awards they took home.

CTE Month: Honoring Career & Technical Education

February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to recognize the importance of CTE in preparing students for future success. At Marion Harding High School, our CTE programs offer hands-on learning in fields such as construction technologies, welding, information technology, exercise science, and engineering. These pathways, guided by Director Marcia Pitts of the Marion County Workforce Development Committee, equip students with practical skills and industry-recognized credentials, ensuring they are ready for both higher education and immediate entry into the workforce. We are committed to providing these opportunities to all students, helping them achieve their career goals.

Marion Harding DECA Shines at Districts – 13 Prexies Advance to State!

The Marion Harding DECA team had a strong showing at the recent district competition, with 13 Prexies earning top honors and advancing to the state competition in March! These students showcased their skills in business, marketing, and entrepreneurship, demonstrating the hard work and dedication that define our CTE programs. Congratulations to all participants and best of luck at state!

February 20 at 4:30pm - Soon to be Sixth Graders at Grant Middle School (doors open at 4:30pm / 5pm presentation)

Marion City Schools is active on social media. These are the top posts on Facebook from January. Follow along for regular updates: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.