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Community Message - May 16, 2025

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Community Message - May 16, 2025

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

As has been recently reported and thereafter confirmed by the Westchester County District Attorney’s office, a former volunteer coach for the District, Dwayne Murray, has been arrested for certain alleged acts of sexual misconduct involving a minor. The organization identified as being affiliated with Mr. Murray in a recent Journal News report, the Junior Knights, is an independent entity from the District. As of this morning, the District has not been made aware that any of our students or former students are in any way connected to this matter. 

Although neither Mr. Murray nor the Junior Knights have any current affiliation with the District, we will fully cooperate with what appears to be an active and ongoing law enforcement investigation. 

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and the victim’s family at this time. 

We will continue to keep the community apprised of any developments regarding this matter to the extent necessary and legally appropriate.
 

New York State Education Department visits MVCSD
New York State Education Department visits MVCSD

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Demario Strickland, met with several individuals from the New York State Education Department to present the District’s strengths and challenges Thursday morning. The purpose of this meeting was to strengthen working relationships between State Education Department area leaders and their district counterparts, while establishing next steps to assist the District out of academic and fiscal distress.

Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Happy Holidays!
Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Happy Holidays!

Students have been getting into the holiday spirit throughout the Mount Vernon City School District! From Winter Wonderlands to holiday concerts, anticipation and excitement for the holidays is upon us. I hope everyone has a merry and bright season! #MtVernonShines.

Students from all three high schools start EMT afterschool program at MVHS
Students from all three high schools start EMT afterschool program at MVHS

Last week, students from all three Mount Vernon City School District high schools began their afterschool Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course at Mount Vernon High School. The course, which began through a partnership with Kool Nerd Prep, provides students with a Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunity which can lead to certification as an EMT. 

Eric Rodrigues nominated for LoHud Wrestler of the Week
Eric Rodrigues nominated for LoHud Wrestler of the Week

Twelfth-grade student Eric Rodrigues, a senior at Mount Vernon STEAM Academy, was nominated for LoHud's Wrestler of the Week Award for his outstanding performance at the Vin Nicita Duals meet, where he was voted as Most Outstanding Senior. Click here to vote for him! Voting closes at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10.

Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Community Matters
Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Community Matters

Mount Vernon’s swift response to the apartment fires that devastated our city shows the true unity in our community and school district. From volunteering your time to donating goods for the victims, your efforts have not gone unnoticed. Thank you to all of those who helped out in a time of need. #MtVernonShines. You can view Mount Vernon’s Jewel Box on our Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube!