John Sample
Proud Superintendent
MAPS Teams with Big Brothers Big Sisters
Merrill Area Public Schools recently drafted a Memorandum of Understanding with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northcentral Wisconsin. The MAPS Board of Education proudly approved this MOU as there is a definite need in our community for mentors. We have young people in our community who would benefit by having a Big Brother, Big Sister, Big Couple or Big Family.
Relationships such as these not only benefit the “littles” looking for positive role models, but the “bigs” also reap the rewards of the time dedicated to such a worthwhile program.
I would encourage you to learn more about the benefits of mentoring by attending the Open House Registration on October 16 at the Merrill Fire Department. Two times have been established for this event for your convenience. Please plan to attend the 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. session or the 5-7 p.m. session.
Thank you in advance for choosing to make a difference in the lives of our community’s young people!
Department of Justice Safety Grant Update
MAPS applied for and has been awarded a second Safety Grant in the amount of $191,972. This grant will allow us to upgrade our handheld communication devices; enhance and upgrade door access to our buildings and our security alarms; and, allow for additional staff training. All staff will receive Mental Health Training; and, our Crisis Teams will receive Threat Assessment Training.
In July 2019, MAPS will be hosting the Threat Assessment Training for our own Crisis Teams and those teams from surrounding districts.
The safety of our students is our primary responsibility. We greatly value and graciously accept the trust our parents have in us as we keep their children safe.
School Board Appreciation Week Oct. 7-13
I am pleased to announce that School Board Appreciation Week was recognized from Oct. 7 through Oct. 13. District employees recognize the hard work and dedication our School Board provides in the best interest of our students.
It is my pleasure to formally recognize each of the nine members of our Merrill Area Public Schools Board of Education: President Kevin Blake, Vice President Eric Geiss, Treasurer Jon Smith, Clerk Nubs Ashbeck, Member Paul Proulx, Member Jeremy Ratliff, Member Maria Volpe, Member Brett Woller and Member Linda Yingling.
The members of our Board of Education do much more than attend and participate in monthly Board meetings. They also actively participate in our committees which consist of the Finance/Human Resources Committee, the Facilities Committee, the Policy Committee, the Curriculum/Technology/Pupil Services Committee, the Legislative Committee, the Head Start Policy Council, and the School Forest Advisory Board.
A special thank you to our MAPS Board of Education!