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Graham sixth graders wrap up elementary school with two fun field trips

Students outside with their teacher on field trip.
Graham sixth graders wrap up elementary school with two fun field trips

Sixth graders at Graham School — The Sheltonettes (aka Ms. Tabitha Shelton's class) — have been living their best lives as they close out their final year of elementary school! They kicked things off with fresh air and friendship at Bear Mountain on June 12, then turned up the fun (and the heat — literally, as it was a solid 100 degrees) in the water at Dorney Park on June 24.

From mountain trails to water slides, this crew laughed, splashed, and screamed their way through two unforgettable adventures and built friendships stronger than the lifeguard’s whistle.

"We couldn’t be prouder of how far The Sheltonettes have come — middle school better be ready!" said Ms. Shelton. 

Students in pool.
Pictures of students on field trip.
Students outside park ride.
Teacher and students in pool.
Students at picnic table.
Group shot of students outside.
Students looking at river at Bear Mountain.
Students sitting on a rock on field trip.
Teacher outside with her students.
Group of students outside with their teacher.
Two students on inflatable pool toys.
Students riding carnival ride swinging.
Four pictures of students and teachers at water park.
Four pictures of students and teachers in pool.
Students in pool on field trip.

 

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.