Last Monday, February 28, students and staff arrived at school to find hateful and repulsive graffiti and vandalism at our elementary and high schools. Shocked and disgusted are two terms that describe how I and many others felt upon seeing the vandalism. Racial slurs, ethnic hatred, and threatening comments have no place in our community. While those who would treat our students, staff, community, and public property in such a manner need guidance to change their thinking and behavior, they also require accountability. Two teens were quickly identified as the culprits. One is a high school student who faces possible expulsion, and the other is reportedly homeschooled. Both are now involved with the legal system.
My heart was heavy and, quite honestly, I was angry. Maybe that’s why what I saw later in the week was so helpful and impacted me so profoundly.
On Wednesday night, I witnessed our girls’ varsity basketball team play a tough, leave-it-all on the floor district’s championship game, surrounded by a community that cares. I was moved by the spirit of the student body that came out in force to support our girls’ effort. Dressed in old Wildcat athletic shorts and black tees, our kids made me proud as I watched them cheer and shout words of encouragement throughout the game. Though the team suffered a heart-wrenching loss, I will never forget the camaraderie and school spirit I felt that evening.
In an especially touching moment, I witnessed Marcellus Superfan Jimmy consoling senior point guard Emma Holmes at the game’s conclusion. That image will be forever ingrained in my mind…the heart of Marcellus on full display.
On Friday and throughout the weekend, the amazing support for Marcellus grapplers was off the charts. The student body and staff cheered as they watched and followed the MHSAA State Wrestling Individual championships. Senior Travis Marsh, sophomore Gabriella Allen and freshman Carlee Osborn each represented Marcellus well. Allen ended the weekend with 2nd place medal and Osborn finished in 6th place. Both girls are amazing trailblazers who successfully competed in the first MHSAA Girls’ State Individual Wrestling Finals!
Throughout the week, I felt the support of parents, students, school board, and community members, many who came to the school to offer a hand, make thoughtful gestures or offer words of support and unity. Faith restored? You bet! I am fortunate to be surrounded with great kids and a wonderful school community.
We will move forward, with a continued focus on safety, but also knowing that those few who chose to hurt do not define our student body or district.
Upcoming Events
The month of March brings with it several important and exciting events. Please mark your calendars for upcoming events, including the MSBOA District 6 Band and Orchestra Festival at Paw Paw High School. The high school band is scheduled to perform on March 8, at 2:25 p.m.., and the middle school band will perform on March 9, at 12:30 p.m. Come out to hear some amazing performances and support the spectacular Wildcat Middle and High School bands!
Save the date for the upcoming Winter Sports Recognition program. On March 16, at 6:15 p.m., the Marcellus Athletic Department will host the event for all middle and high school winter athletes. The program serves to recognize the commitment of parents, athletes, coaches, boosters and volunteers throughout the winter athletics season.
The Marcellus High School National Honor Society will host a blood drive on March 15, from 10:00am until 2:45 pm. Kudos to the members and advisor Katy Essex for facilitating this important event.
Finally, on March 26, Volinia Outcomes School’s drive through pancake breakfast runs from 7:30 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. The students and faculty take great pride in producing the delicious maple syrup and volunteering at the annual breakfast. Stop by to enjoy the sweet fruits of their labor!
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