MVCSD Convocation kicks off new year with Excellence by Design

With the first day of school right around the corner, faculty, administrators and staff from all 13 schools gathered at Mount Vernon High School Tuesday morning for the District’s annual convocation, where Superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland introduced this year’s theme of Excellence by Design. Check out photos from the day here! 

Convocation serves as an opportunity to grow professionally, as well as share the superintendent’s purpose, passion and pride for the year; reinforcing a shared mission and vision that guides all faculty and staff for student success.

“Convocation is a beautiful reminder of the importance of coming together as a school community, celebrating our shared purpose and setting the tone for another year of growth and success,” said Tehya Johnson, social worker at Denzel Washington School of the Arts.

The morning started off with Denzel Washington School of the Arts students Charlize Ford and Jasmine McKenzie performing the “National Anthem” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” before Board of Education President Dr. Donna Marable and Vice President Randolf Scott addressed the audience.

“Every school year brings new opportunities to support and inspire students,” Mr. Scott said. “Your dedication and professionalism make that possible...Let’s lead with purpose and work together to remain focused on student success.” 

Mount Vernon High School principal Dr. Pauline Pearce welcomed the crowd to her building while embracing this year’s mantra, emphasizing that excellence does not happen by accident.

“We are honored to have you here, and we are exceptionally excited to host this year's superintendent’s convocation,” said Dr. Pearce. “And what better place to gather for back to school as we embrace this year's powerful theme, Excellence by Design, because excellence doesn't happen by accident. 

Lisa Mayzun, Director of Physical Education and Health, recognized individuals for their decades of service and dedication, including those who have been in the District for over 20, 30 and 35 years. 

To get everyone familiarized with the new administration and different aspects of their job, faculty and staff participated in a game where they located several items related to their work, such as ID cards, and new principals in the auditorium. 

President of the Civil Service Employees Association, Yuri White, President of the Mount Vernon Federation of Teachers, David Israel and President of the  Mount Vernon Administrator’s Group, Dr. Colleen Seivright-Crawford, addressed the crowd to share their appreciation for employees' dedication to students’ education and the overall success of the District.

“Each of you plays an important role in creating the success we see across this District,” said Mr. Israel. “I am incredibly proud to stand here today on behalf of my amazing colleagues and I am excited to welcome all of our new members to the Mount Vernon City School District and to the Mount Vernon Federation of Teachers family.” 

Timothy Jenkins, senior at Mount Vernon High School and student representative for the Board of Education, spoke about what Excellence by Design means to him, showcasing student perspective and his desire to reach for the stars.

“To me excellence means a lot of things,” said Timothy. “To me excellence means a community that comes together and advances every student, inspiring the next generation. To speak to everybody and understand each other, and cultivate character, to inspire excellence. These words mean everything to me, and I know they mean something to these people in this room.”

With seven new principals entering the District this year, faculty and staff were introduced to them, as well as veteran principals through “The Real Educators of Mount Vernon” video, where each individually introduced themselves and what Excellence by Design means to them. 

“The Real Educators of Mount Vernon” reunion show featured one principal, assistant principal, head custodian, administrator, teaching assistant, security and nurse from several buildings to discuss misconceptions about their jobs. 

MaryBeth Rhodes, Director of Humanities, introduced Superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland, who discussed his goals for the District this year with the audience. He began by discussing his first year in the District, including the ups and downs throughout his time as superintendent.

He introduced the newest administrative additions to the District, Assistant Superintendent for Business, Joe Lin and the new Payroll and Benefits Manager, Robert Persaud. Dr. Strickland expressed his gratitude for the hard work these two have demonstrated since they started in their positions. 

Dr. Strickland welcomed the newest principals and assistant principals and introduced his executive cabinet before diving into his philosophy for the year – Excellence by Design. He emphasized the importance of being proactive, rather than reactive and that nothing happens by chance.

Moving onto District accomplishments for the year, Dr. Strickland highlighted implementing sound fiscal practices, passing the budget, contract renewals for teachers, teaching assistants, security and lunch monitors, as well as implementing a new volunteer program and Career and  Technical Education renewal and expansion.

When it comes to commitment and transparency, Dr. Strickland emphasized that the District strives to facilitate effective communication, transparency and understanding between the District and its audiences, including students, parents, families, administrators, teachers, staff members, tax payers and anyone else in the Mount Vernon community.

Dr. Strickland discussed Standard Operating Procedures, and his continued commitment to instilling strict adherence to SOPs. Last year, the District introduced over ten SOPs, helping financial management and creating a more orderly environment. 

The next part of his presentation discussed operational priorities, academic achievement goals, non academic goals and culture and climate before highlighting Dr. Strickland’s core beliefs. These beliefs include: 

• Every child has unlimited potential.​​
• Literacy is the key to unlocking a child’s future.​​
• The quality of teaching determines the quality of learning.​​
• Strong relationships create strong outcomes.​​
• A child’s ZIP Code should not determine their future.​​

In terms of instructional priorities, Dr. Strickland touched upon the continued practice of GEMS of Instruction, which ensures that every student in Mount Vernon experiences high-quality learning, equity and success in every classroom, every day. The GEMS framework represents a shared vision for teaching and learning through grade-level content and using effective progress measures.

Several exciting new initiatives are on the horizon, including a newly launched website, educational platforms and a concerted effort to improve attendance. Dr. Strickland concluded his presentation by sharing his focuses and expectations before staff returned to their buildings to continue the day with engaging professional development to start off the school year strong.