Happy Holidays, Martin County School District families and staff!
With just a few days left of 2022 on our calendar, I would like to take a moment to reflect and share a message of gratitude and hope with you.
This year has presented many opportunities for growth and achievement. Our talented faculty and staff bring their very best to our campuses and facilities, a fact that is evident as I visit schools, classrooms and departments across the District. Students are engaged, closing gaps in their learning, developing relationships with their peers and mentors, and growing strong as our next generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers.
Over the past two school years, MCSD has implemented two K-12 curriculum adoptions in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. Our students and teachers are benefiting from these resources, which are fully aligned with Florida's new B.E.S.T. standards. We are now evaluating Social Studies materials for adoption, a process that will continue into the new year.
Our philanthropic community continues to provide amazing opportunities for our students through ongoing partnerships and investments, such as the generous reauthorization of our millage referendum that will continue to support operational needs throughout the District. We are truly a community that values education and supports each other like family, which is the aspect I admire most about our beautiful Martin County.
These are just a few examples of the things that give me great joy and pride to serve as your leader—and there are so many more!
As we enter the new year, we are hopeful and optimistic about what lies ahead. 2023 will bring extra excitement for the students, families, and employees of Jensen Beach and Palm City elementary schools, as the much-awaited new school buildings will welcome students and employees for the first time. Jensen Beach Elementary School will open its new doors upon our return from Winter Break, and Palm City Elementary School will follow suit in March. These new schools, as well as many other capital projects and security upgrades throughout the District, have been funded by the half-cent sales tax referendum that was generously approved by Martin County voters in 2018.
On behalf of the Martin County School Board and our school district, I thank all of our students, employees and families for your commitment to education this year. We value your unique and meaningful contributions to our school community. I wish you a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year. Please prioritize spending quality time with your loved ones, and also remember to take time for yourself. Keep those who are less fortunate in your minds and hearts, as we know this time of the year can be especially difficult for many. Let’s continue to give our best to each other and show grace by extending kindness whenever possible. Don’t forget to make time to relax and READ!
Happy holidays to all!
John D. Millay, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools