Yesterday, voters in the Merrill Area Public School District approved a four-year, $2.5 million operational referendum to address operational needs, enhance the K-12 industrial/technical education programs, retain and hire quality staff, and address facilities maintenance.
“Thank you to the Merrill community for the continued trust you place in our district and educators,” said MAPS Superintendent Dr. John Sample. “The steps taken this week through your approval of the district’s operating referendum is a reflection of our common values and strong partnerships in education. We are grateful for a community that cares about education as we work together to deliver our very best for all students.”
What’s next?
In the coming months, MAPS will begin planning for enhanced technical education programs for students throughout the district.
“With improvements to curriculum, classroom space, software and equipment, we aim to increase the relevancy of student learning,” Sample said. “Promotion of critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be at the forefront of our curriculum. We will continue to seek out and build on strong partnerships with manufacturers as key partners in learning and skill development for students.”
A new teacher compensation plan will be presented to the Board of Education in a deliberate effort to retain and attract highly-qualified educators.
“Our starting salary for new teachers will be competitive with other neighboring districts beginning with the 2018-2019 school year,” Sample stated. “Those teachers currently under-compensated based on skills and experience will be compensated more equitably. And, our teachers at the highest levels of the salary structure will be capped in order for our new plan to remain sustainable.
“Priority maintenance projects that have been deferred will now be addressed, keeping our schools well-maintained and operating efficiently,” he added.
“We will continue to strengthen the trust you have placed in us and will remain focused on high expectations for student achievement,” Sample said. “Thank you to our community for your loyalty and dedication to Merrill Area Public Schools!”