Skip To Main Content

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.

The morning started off with introductions, where individuals formally presented themselves to the group before Dr. Jeffrey Matteson, NYSED's Senior Deputy Commissioner for Education Policy, gave his opening remarks.

“The goal here is to recreate the foundation so that we can use the talents around this table to build an outstanding school district,” said Dr. Matteson. “We’re hopeful about that.” 

Dr. Strickland proceeded to present a summary of the highlights and lowlights within the District. District achievements the Superintendent noted were that academics have consistently improved despite fiscal challenges and that graduation rates have improved over the years.

He shared additional accomplishments within the District, such as establishing communication protocols, improvement with transparency and an assembled executive leadership team.

Moving forward with challenged areas, Dr. Strickland emphasized the significant fiscal distress, statewide declining enrollment, and lack of standardized operating procedures.

After the presentation, individuals broke into small groups to discuss school improvement and academic plans, as well as special education, facilities, transportation, staffing processes and budgeting / fiscal management. 

Dr. Strickland presenting at the board of education.


 

Superintendent of MVCSD shares community feedback on budget priorities

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Demario Strickland presented community feedback on budget priorities for the 2026 - 2027 school year to the Board of Education Tuesday evening. The District conducted a survey in December to hear from community members and stakeholders about what they think is essential for the 2026 -27 budget.

 Amirah Arroya and Taj Lovell qualify for Nike Nationals

Congratulations to our Girls' Track and Field for an outstanding performance this past weekend! Taj Lovell ran her best time of the season in the 55 hurdles, qualifying for Nike Nationals and breaking into the top 50 hurdlers in New York! Amirah Arroya won the shot put and weight throw, qualifying for the Nike Nationals in both events. She threw a personal best in the weight throw along with her teammates Jasmine McKenzie and Daniella Thorpe, who placed 4th in the weight throw.

Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Preparing for State Testing

With state testing around the corner, students and staff are gearing up to conquer what’s ahead. Students have been studying hard and diligently to pave the way for their success. Our scholars are preparing to do their best, as they always do. Best of luck to all in the weeks ahead! #MtVernonShines