1/15/09

Parents and citizens invited to school information sessions

The Marysville School District is facing big challenges in the years ahead, and leaders are anxious to gather public input on issues ranging from school closures to bond requests and transportation options.

The district's Citizens Planning Commission has been reviewing student and facility needs and will make recommendations to the school board by May 15. Before preparing final proposals, the committee is interested in hearing from those served by the district.

Some of the serious issues under consideration include relocating several student communities, closing or relocating the M-P Pool, replacing non-school days with early release schedules, and budgeting for the expected state funding shortfall.

Town meetings, which provide opportunities for public input, are set for Thursday, January 15, and Tuesday, February 3, (note change from printed article) in the Board room at the district office, 4220-80th Street NE, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Citizens are also invited to attend upcoming staff meetings, planned for January 22 in the district Board room and January 29 at Grove Elementary, both at 3:30 p.m.

The Citizen's Planning Commission meets January 22 and February 12, with both meetings beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the district's Board room.

Information on the proposals, including a comprehensive report entitled "Facilities Overview-January 2009," is available on the Marysville School District Web site at www.msvl.k12.wa.us.

In addition to the planning meetings, the district has also scheduled an Information Fair and kindergarten registration kickoff on Saturday, January 24, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Totem Middle School, 1605-7th Street.

Kindergarten parents can register their students for the 2009-2010 school year, and meet staff members from the child's school while learning about kindergarten readiness and transportation options. Registration requires an original copy of the student's birth certificate and immunization records.

During the Information Fair, parents of fourth- and fifth-graders will have an opportunity to review the district's HIV/AIDS curriculum, and representatives from partnering agencies will be on hand to provide information about programs.

For more information about the Marysville School District, visit the Web site at www.msvl.k12.wa.us, or phone (360) 653-0800.