The Mount Vernon R-V Board of Education held a Regular Meeting on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Below are some items of information from the meeting:
School Board Meeting Summary – September 18, 2025
- Anna Vandever was recognized as the September MV-MVP. Congratulations to Mrs. Vandever!
Anna shows her hard work every single day by creating multiple schedules that keep our whole department running smoothly. She’s always the first to step in and help others. She puts everyone else before herself and still somehow stays ahead of the game, which shows just how much love she has for her students and her role.
Anna makes such a positive difference just by the way she’s always smiling and ready to help anyone who walks into her room. She works so hard to keep special education and regular education connected, making sure teachers and students all have what they need. She goes out of her way to celebrate others, from baking back-to-school cupcakes, helping with coworker fun events, always doing what she can to bring others up. Her positive attitude lifts everyone’s spirits and makes our school a better place.
Anna takes challenges head-on by creating and continually refining the entire education schedule to best meet student needs. She has poured countless hours into developing a strong curriculum and freely shares everything with her coworkers, showing her true team spirit. No matter what task or challenge she’s given, she finds a way to make it work and keeps her team in the loop with great communication. Honestly, MVES wouldn’t be the same without her dedication and teamwork.
- Members of the Student Board Advisory Team gave an update on the new cell phone policy. Mr. Smith, Math teacher at the High School, also gave a report on the policy. Students reported that it had not been an issue. The only concern some had was the use of a personal laptop. Mr. Smith reported that the engagement of the students had increased, time was used more effectively, and more conversation was happening among students. He reported that some of the students even stated that it had helped them with their screen time and it was beneficial.
SUPERINTENDENT REPORT
- The district’s 14-year enrollment survey was reviewed.
- As of the Tuesday after Labor Day, enrollment stands at 1,401 students, down 19 students from last year.
- Current enrollment levels are similar to 2019-20.
- The Early Childhood Program currently serves 104 students, which is not included in this number. This number typically grows as the year progresses.
OLD BUSINESS
- The Board voted to not participate in the LifeSavers program at the High School.
NEW BUSINESS
- David Grey (Veregy) provided an update on the Performing Arts Center (PAC) project.
- Mr. Koenig shared highlights from the Washington D.C. trip that was taken this summer and also received approval for the annual Washington, D.C. trip for students in the summer of 2027.
- Mrs. Elsey shared updates on the Grow Your Own Grant.
- Mr. Dennis, FFA Advisor, received approval for student teams to travel out of state for national competition. A group of students from last year won at the state level to be able to compete at the national level.
- Mr. Johnston gave an update on drug testing policies.
- The Board reviewed and took action on updated MSBA policies and procedures.
- The Board approved a one year stipend for High School Activities Director duties.
- The Board considered and adopted the 2025-2026 Budget Document.
In Closed Session:
- Chris Johnston was approved for the High School Activities Director position for the remainder of the 2025-26 school year, with support from Middle School AD Ashton Botts.
- James Simons was approved as the Esports sponsor, filling the position left by Chance Cornell.
- The Board approved substitute teachers for the district.