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Community Message - April 30, 2025

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Community Message - April 30, 2025

Dr. K. Veronica Smith, Acting Superintendent of Schools:

It is with great sorrow that I share that the Mount Vernon City School District will be laying off 84 certified staff members – including teachers, teaching assistants and administrators – and 40 civil service employees at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. I want to thank every one of them for the great work they have done for the District, and I am saddened that our financial situation required a reduction of workforce. Certified staff members were notified of layoffs by the end of March, and civil service employees were notified by April 22.

When the District made the decision to close three schools, it was out of necessity. To retain our student programs, we needed to develop a plan where we could staff the District in accordance with our declining enrollment. Expensive building repairs and a designation of significant fiscal stress from the New York State Comptroller also contributed to the decision. As a result, the District reduced its expected expenses for the upcoming school year by $16.9 million.

Our employees are much more than numbers and figures, but this decision was essential for the long-term financial health of the District. We employ wonderful people who care so much about the children. I am sure administrators throughout the District will be very supportive of our laid off staff members. I wish them all the best in their new positions.

The Human Resources Department has been in communication with the Department of Labor to provide support to laid off employees with their employment counselors and job search services

Pioneer League Kickoff game
Pioneer League Kickoff game

Yesterday marked the exciting opening game of Mount Vernon City School District's Pioneer League! Our team faced off against Mamaroneck’s Tigers in a thrilling soccer match.  Congratulations to all the players for their hard work and sportsmanship—what a fantastic start to the season!

Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Fall Festival
Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Fall Festival

Our Parent Resource Center located at Graham School is a one stop shop for families, providing them with the tools to exceed professionally and personally. The center, which opened during our Fall Festival last week, offers a variety of educational and engaging workshops to help the Mount Vernon community. We look forward to seeing you at the Parent Resource Center throughout the year, utilizing tools such as our computers to assist with job searches, resume building, and registering your children. #MtVernonShines. 

MVCSD hosts annual Fall Festival
MVCSD hosts annual Fall Festival

Families throughout Mount Vernon spent Saturday afternoon at Graham School, engaging in fun-filled activities together at the district-wide Fall Festival. Community members learned about resources throughout the city, such as the Mount Vernon City School District Parent Resource Center (PRC).

Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - STEAM
Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - STEAM

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics), plays an integral role in students’ habits of mind and skills such as collaboration, communication and critical thinking. These skills help students succeed in school and beyond. #MtVernonShines.

State of the District Address delivered to faculty and staff
State of the District Address delivered to faculty and staff

Mount Vernon City School District Superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland addressed staff, teachers and administration during his State of the District yesterday, celebrating accomplishments and highlighting challenges during his first 125 days leading the District.