Skip To Main Content

First Secondary Superintendent’s Advisory Council meeting held at Mount Vernon Board of Education

Students talking out ideas to write on board.
First Secondary Superintendent’s Advisory Council meeting held at Mount Vernon Board of Education

Secondary scholars throughout the District arrived at the Mount Vernon Board of Education to share their experiences and ideas on how to better their schools on Thursday, October 10, 2024, during the first Secondary Superintendent’s Advisory Council meeting. 

The meeting opened up with a word from Acting Superintendent Dr. K Veronica Smith, who explained to the students that this is a safe space for them to share their concerns and desires for their schools. 

“We value you as individuals, we value what you need to say,” said Dr. Smith

Afterwards, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction and Administration Dr. Jamal Doggett asked the students if they knew the purpose of these meetings. Students spoke about the importance of advocating for their peers and making positive changes to their schools before breaking into their first activity. This involved students gathering into groups and writing down what accomplishments they would like to achieve as a council. 

“I’m definitely hoping to be able to advocate for my school, as it is more of an upcoming high school…” said Naori Bagley, 12th grader at Rebecca Turner Academy. “I really hope that by bringing these topics up in these meetings, I can help represent my school well.” 

During the school year, students will have the opportunity to share what is going on in their school and things they would like to change. They will meet with various different personnel within the District during the monthly meetings and complete engaging activities. 

Students writing.
Students listening to someone speak.
Students writing ideas on paper.


 

A group of people are gathered outdoors at tables, with lush green trees forming the background.
Superintendent meets with community members to address budget questions and clarify financial information

Mount Vernon City School District Superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland met with community members Wednesday evening, discussing the revised 2026-27 budget and dispelling rumors regarding District finances.  

To find answers to frequently asked community questions, you can visit our FAQ at https://www.mtvernoncsd.org/departments/business-finance/frequently-asked-questions  

The revote for the budget will be held on Tuesday, June 16, and polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Find your polling place at https://lh.findmypollplace.com/MtVernonCSD/  

In the foreground, a group of young people are gathered around a table, while the background shows a kitchen setting with the text "COMMUNITY QUESTION" and "What happens when the 2nd budget vote results in a 'No' vote?".
Community Financial Question: What happens if the 2nd budget vote results in a “No” vote?

If the budget is voted down a second time, the Board of Education must adopt a contingency budget for the next school year. 

Under a contingency budget: 

  • The district’s tax levy is very limited, typically staying at or below last year’s level, with no increase allowed for things like inflation or other adjustments. 

  • The district must make additional cuts to balance the budget. 

  • Some non-essential spending is restricted, such as certain equipment purchases.

In the foreground, a group of young people are gathered around a table, while the background shows a kitchen setting with ovens and other students.
Community Financial Question: Why is there a 2nd vote on the budget?

A second vote is required when the proposed school budget is not approved by voters on the first vote. 

By law, the Board of Education has two options after a failed vote: 

  • Present the same budget again, or 

  • Revise the budget and present an updated proposal 

The district chose to hold a second vote to give the community another opportunity to consider a budget that reflects feedback and adjustments made after the first vote. 

If the budget is not approved on the second vote, the district must adopt a contingency budget, and the budget cannot go back to voters again.