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Community Message - June 3, 2025

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Community Message - June 3, 2025

Royce Russell, In-House Counsel:

The Mount Vernon City School District informs the stakeholders of the City of Mount Vernon that the Arbitrator has issued a decision in the matter of Mt. Vernon City School District v. Dr. Waveline Bennett-Conroy, that was the subject of a public court filing and what was reported in the Journal News. We commend the Board of Trustees for their principled and courageous action. While it would have been easier to avoid controversy, the Trustees upheld their fiduciary duty and remained faithful to their oath to serve the District and its community with integrity.

The case involved serious allegations, including misrepresentations made to both the Board and the public, as well as the engagement of a vendor for whom the District was unable to substantiate had provided all the required services it had been retained to fulfill. Notwithstanding the above, Dr. Bennett-Conroy continued to advocate for the relationship. The vendor received millions of dollars from the District.

Several Trustees, recognizing the need for accountability, initiated an independent audit which led to an Arbitration. These concerns raised by the Board and the community underscores the importance of vigilance, and transparency.

The District remains committed to restoring trust, ensuring sound governance, and putting the needs of our students and community first.
 

Mount Vernon's Jewel Box
Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Week of a Young Child

In the Jewel Box this week, we are highlighting the importance of early childhood education for Week of the Young Child. Prekindergarten is a vital stage in a student’s academic journey, and you can sign up to start your child on that journey in our schools. Pre-K 4 Early Registration and Pre-K 3 lottery will be open until June 19, 2026. You can also view Mount Vernon’s Jewel Box on our Facebook, Instagram or YouTube! #MtVernonShines

 

The image shows a sign above the entrance of a building, displaying a welcoming message to visitors. The sign has an arched design with decorative lettering, and the background appears to be a plain, light-colored wall.
Prekindergarten homework stars celebrated with movie viewing at Pelham Picture House

The Prekindergarten Department held its Homework Celebration on Saturday at the Pelham Picture House! The celebration recognized 50 out of the 112 students who completed 90% or more of their homework from October to February. A lottery for 50 spaces was held to select students for the celebration. Families were so excited to watch the Mario Movie in a private local theater, and the Prekindergarten Department can't wait to host their final celebration in June with a viewing of Toy Story 2!

Talk, Sing, Point flyer
Talk, Sing, Point: Mount Vernon Basics Workshop returns April 25

Families with young children are invited to learn, connect and have fun at the Mount Vernon City School District’s upcoming Mount Vernon Basics Workshop. The district will host its second in-person “Talk, Sing and Point Workshop” on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Mount Vernon High School, 100 California Road.