While the next few weeks offer an opportunity to reflect on this past year, many of us are in planning mode to make the 2019-2020 the best year yet.
Merrill High School Graduation
Those attending the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2019 saw 204 seniors walking across the stage, considerably bigger than last year’s class of 157 seniors. This class earned $1.2 million in scholarships and another $800K in GI Bill awards. These seniors took more Advanced Placement (AP) classes and exams than any other graduating class preceding them. They also set the bar by taking more college credit courses at MHS through NTC and UW Stevens Point in Wausau. The Class of 2019 will also be remembered for bringing many new things to the high school including new courses, the Fab Lab, the Fishing Club, and the Trap Team to name a few.
Bridges Virtual Academy Graduation
Over 200 family, friends and staff members were in attendance at the Merrill Expo Center on May 17 for the BVA graduation ceremony. This year marks the seventh year students graduated from BVA. Twenty-six graduates earned their diplomas as they represented the Class of 2019. Mr. Rich Neureuther, a retired FBI special agent and corporate trainer, presented the graduates with some wisdom and motivation as they embarked on their post high school plans.
This year’s graduating class brings the total number of BVA graduates to 132 since the school’s opening for the 2012-13 school year.
Welcome To Our Newest Board Member
Christi Stellingworth joins the MAPS Board of Education as the newest member. Christi has lived in the Merrill district for 22 years and feels we have a great school district. She comes to us as a strong advocate for the district. She has been involved with school district activities such as the Parent Ambassador program, Youth Optimist advisor, Youth Optimist of the Month (YOM) coordinator and she is very involved in the Merrill Boys basketball program.
Christi is currently employed at Society Insurance as a field claims representative and handles large commercial claims investigations. In her job she works with others as an adept and active problem solver. She also works with business owners in their worst moments and sees them through their adversities, while investigating the facts, and makes informed decisions.
Christi has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and took many master level community service classes. In addition, she earned her Associate’s Degree in handling claims. She has taken numerous continuing education courses over the years in litigation, insurance and law. Her career has been in insurance, human services and law enforcement. Welcome to the MAPS Board of Education, Christi!
Summertime!
I know many of you will be enjoying family time as the weather is favorable this time of year.
Please remember to read often to your children or have them read to you. Plan activities that engage them physically with the outdoors. Visit a new place in the area that you have never been before. Attend some of the many events offered in our area. And most importantly, enjoy spending time together, as their graduation will be here before you know it!
John Sample
Proud Superintendent