Board of Education Meeting Highlights for March 18, 2025

Welcome to our monthly Board of Education newsletter! Here you'll find highlights from our latest Board of Education meeting held on March 18, 2025. There are many ways you can stay updated on the decisions and discussions shaping our school district.

Your engagement is crucial in building a better future for our community. Thank you for your continued support of MGSD!

The Board of Education recognized a Rocky River Racer for the Student of the Month at the March 18th meeting. The RRES instructional leadership team nominated student Lily Williams for this honor. In the nomination, they said the following:

"Lily is a shining example of perseverance, positivity and school spirit. No matter the challenge, she faces each day with a radiant smile and an unwavering determination to succeed. She eagerly participates in every school event, always dressed to the nines, bringing energy and enthusiasm wherever she goes. In the classroom, she is a dedicated and engaged learner who collaborates seamlessly with her peers. She not only encourages those around her but also graciously welcomes support, creating a class culture of kindness and mutual growth. Her resilience and uplifting spirit make her a true inspiration to our school community."

RRES student Sloan Crenshaw was nominated for the MGSD Artist of the Month honor for March. She was nominated by both her music and visual art teachers at Rocky River Elementary. They said the following in their nomination of Sloan for Artist of the Month:

From Mrs. Nelson, Music Teacher at RRES - Sloan’s passion for music shines through in everything she does. She is a dedicated learner who encourages others to participate alongside her. She applies her knowledge creatively when composing and creating her own music. With a love for drumming and a strong sense of rhythm and musicianship, Sloan brings energy and skill to every musical activity.

From Mrs. Sossamon, Art Teacher at RRES - Sloan is a sweet and conscientious student. She always works hard to do her best work. She is personable and gets along well with other students, and is a big help whenever one of her classmates or I need help. She’s both witty and kind at the same time and is a true pleasure to teach!

At the March Board of Education meeting, the ABCD award was bestowed on Mr. Tommy Clark, a plumber in our maintenance department. Mr. Clark was nominated by the Rocky River administrative team, Ms. Kaemba and Ms. Earnhardt, as well as the MGSD maintenance director, Mr. Todd Neel. In the nomination, Ms. Kaemba, Ms. Earnhardt, and Mr. Neel highlighted that Mr. Clark goes Above & Beyond in their work, and models the MGSD core values of authentic relationships, empowerment, and safety.

Ms. Kaemba & Ms. Earnhardt said, "Tommy brings purpose, kindness, and a solution-oriented mindset to everything he does, making a tremendous impact on the Rocky River community. Keeping our school safe and clean is a top priority for him, and we’re so grateful for his dedication. Whether addressing a leaking water bottle refill station or unexpected issues like a rock in a toilet; or, stepping outside of his normal duties to hang an AED or replace a burnt-out showcase light, Tommy consistently goes above and beyond. His thoroughness ensures every task is completed to the highest standard, and his friendly demeanor brings joy wherever he goes. We’re lucky to have Tommy as part of the Mooresville Graded Team. His hard work and positive spirit make a big difference every day!

Todd Neel echoed their sentiment, sharing that Tommy has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and an unwavering willingness to go above and beyond. His commitment to assisting others is truly commendable. He is always ready to lend a hand, no matter the complexity or scope of the task at hand. Whether it's during regular working hours, after hours, or on weekends, Tommy consistently offers support without hesitation. Beyond his selflessness, Tommy is also a proactive and enthusiastic contributor. He often leads the charge by volunteering for new projects, showcasing his eagerness to learn and tackle new challenges. His professionalism is evident in everything he does from his meticulous attention to detail to his respectful and courteous interactions with colleagues and staff alike. A true expert in his field, Tommy possesses a wealth of knowledge and skill that he generously shares with others. He is a respected mentor and guide, always ready to offer support and insight to his colleagues.

In conclusion, Tommy Clark is an extraordinary individual whose dedication, professionalism, and willingness to assist others make him an invaluable asset to the MGSD community!

The Selma Burke Middle School Lady Bears Varsity Basketball team have now become a legend in the making! This season, like last, they remained undefeated (15-0), winning the Tri-County Athletic Conference Trophy. But it isn’t just their winning streak that makes them stand out. Every practice, every game, they show what it means to be a true team — working together, lifting each other up, and never backing down. In their JV season last year, being a brand-new school and the only JV team of all 6th graders, they were underdogs that surprised everyone with their skill and work ethic. They made a name for themselves and their school, going undefeated (16-0) and winning the trophy.

This year, they were champions from the start. On the season, the girls scored a total of 617 points and defensively only allowed an average total of 24 points per game. The fan base was amazing! These girls brought the noise level up in every gym we played in. They were not only good but so much fun to watch, too! The last game of the season was no different. With the trophy on the line, the team didn’t just win, they literally "took" what was theirs and won it all! The girls were challenged to compete and play with pride, and they answered the call. The gym erupted in cheers! The Lady Bears had done it. They were not just champions. They were undefeated champions two seasons in a row for a combined 31-0 record.

These young ladies are way more than a team now — they are a legacy. With most of this team being 7th graders, and only three student-athletes moving up to the high school, next year should be another fun season of basketball at Selma Burke Middle!

GO BEARS!

The Mooresville High School wrestling program had an unforgettable season, highlighted by the dominance of Jace Barrier and Austin Green, who both claimed regional and state championships in their respective weight classes.

Jace Barrier – 120 lbs Champion – put together a near-perfect season, showcasing his relentless work ethic and technical mastery on the mat. He steamrolled through the competition at the regional tournament, securing his championship and earning the top seed at states. At the NCHSAA 4A State Championships, Barrier continued his dominance to clinch the 120-pound title. His tournament run included a technical fall victory in the quarterfinals, reinforcing his status as one of the top wrestlers in the state. Barrier’s season was defined by precision, endurance, and control, as he consistently outscored opponents and dictated the pace of every match. His ability to adapt to different wrestling styles made him nearly unstoppable.

Austin Green – 138 lbs Champion – is a testament to grit, strength, and perseverance. As a leader on the team, Green dominated throughout the regular season and continued his momentum into the postseason. He captured the regional championship and entered the state tournament determined to claim gold. In a thrilling championship match at the state finals, Green secured the 138-pound title. His road to victory included a tough semifinal win where he showcased both strategic wrestling and physical endurance.Green’s success this season was built on his aggressive style and relentless attack. His ability to push the pace and wear down opponents played a crucial role in his championship run.

With Barrier and Green leading the way, Mooresville High School’s wrestling team established itself as one of the strongest programs in the state. Their individual titles not only brought pride to their school but also inspired younger wrestlers to strive for excellence. Their dedication, discipline, and drive have continued the standard for Mooresville wrestling, and with both champions returning next season, the future looks bright!

The Mooresville Graded School District proudly recognizes and congratulates nine MGSD educators who either attained or renewed their National Board Certification in 2024. As part of the certification process, candidates build a portfolio that includes student work samples, assignments, video samples, and a thorough analysis of their classroom teaching. This is a year-long process that requires a significant investment of time and energy by each participant. Certification by the National Board is considered to be the highest credential in the teaching profession.

NBCT Renewals: Erin Anders - SBMS, Caitlin Carmendy - MHS (pictured with Baby Carmendy), Amy Harris - MHS, Deborah

Hauff - MHS, Christina Nuss - MHS, Stephanie Roseman - MMS (pictured), Amy Ward – MHS (pictured).

NBCT First Time Recipients: Robert Fanzo - MHS (pictured), Mary Royal - MHS (pictured).

The following item was brought to the Board of Education for approval at the March meeting after being presented for consideration in February. For more details, please click on the "memo" linked for that item.