Week 35: Recognizing Our Seniors and Their Teachers

Happy Friday!

Welcome to this week's Bearcat Wrap-up! With only eight school days remaining, we conclude another productive week at Mena Public Schools, I extend my deepest appreciation for everyone's hard work and commitment. This week, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our senior class and the dedication of our educators during Teacher Appreciation Week. Each milestone reached this week reflects our district's performance targets and embodies our mission to prepare every student for success, supporting our vision of fostering a confident, capable community. Thank you for your relentless effort and enthusiasm, which propel us toward these important goals with each passing day.

Before we get into the Wrap-up, here is some information about our performance targets. Next week, we will be updating our academic data concerning our performance targets, providing us with a clearer picture of how we are poised to conclude this academic year. Our ATLAS results will not be available until October or November. While we have faced challenges in meeting our discipline and attendance goals, it is important to note some key developments. Attendance will no longer count against us on our state report card, reflecting a shift in how these metrics are evaluated. Additionally, improvements in our discipline tracking system have naturally led to recording more infractions, which, although it appears we have missed our target, simply indicates a more accurate reporting process. This enhancement in tracking is crucial for addressing and reducing actual instances of discipline concerns effectively.

Productive Effort

As we reflect on this week at Mena Public Schools, we celebrate not only the milestones of our senior class and our dedicated educators during Teacher Appreciation Week but also how these achievements align with our district’s performance targets, mission, and vision. Our commitment to fostering an environment of academic excellence and community involvement is evident in the successes and community support we have observed this year. By our educators continuously striving towards our goals, we ensure that every student not only meets but exceeds their potential, preparing them to be thoughtful, productive citizens in a diverse and ever-changing world.

Celebrating Our Seniors

Today, we honor the last official school day for our senior class, with anticipation building towards their graduation ceremony on May 18, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium. Our seniors have demonstrated remarkable resilience and ambition throughout their time at Mena Public Schools. As they prepare to face new challenges beyond our halls, it is important to remember that these future obstacles will be faced without the constant physical presence of their teachers at Mena. The education and principles instilled here are intended to equip them for independent navigation through life's complexities.

Seniors, as you step into the broader world, remember the steadfast support of your parents and the Mena community. Their contributions, whether in time or resources, have been instrumental in shaping your journey. The community’s involvement in volunteering time and money has significantly enhanced your educational experiences, setting a foundation of community support that we hope you will continue to build upon and replicate in your future endeavors.

Honoring Our Teachers

During Teacher Appreciation Week, we turn our spotlight to the exceptional educators who have tirelessly dedicated themselves to the academic and personal growth of every student. Our teachers have not only imparted academic knowledge but have also been pivotal in mentoring and guiding the Class of 2024 toward this significant phase of their lives. Their commitment to professional development and educational excellence reflects directly on the successes and readiness of our students, especially this year’s senior class.

Teachers, your efforts have shaped the futures of countless individuals, and for that, the entire Bearcat community is deeply grateful. The impact you make extends beyond the classroom—it influences the lives of students for years to come. We encourage you to continue your pursuit of excellence and innovation in education, inspiring future generations and fostering an environment of continuous learning and growth.

The journey of education is one of hard work and dedication, a path well-trodden by our esteemed educators and especially recognized during this Teacher Appreciation Week. While the demands are high, the rewards—seen in the growth and success of our students—are far greater. Your efforts not only reach the milestones of academic excellence but also forge characters ready to take on the world. The influence you have extends beyond the confines of the classroom and into the lives of every student you teach, shaping their futures in profound ways.

We recognize that the work is challenging, yet the outcomes are incredibly rewarding. The commitment you show to professional development and educational excellence has a direct and lasting impact on our students, particularly evident in the readiness and achievements of this year’s graduating seniors and the kindness expressed by our community supporters this week and weeks past. As you continue to inspire and mold future generations, remember that your dedication does not go unnoticed. The entire Bearcat community is grateful for your tireless efforts and the significant difference you make. Your role is crucial in fostering an environment where continuous learning and growth thrive, ensuring that the benefits of your hard work will be felt for years to come.

Congratulations to the Class of 2024, and a heartfelt thank you to our teachers for your profound impact. Let us all move forward with gratitude and enthusiasm for what lies ahead.

Closing

This week, we celebrated School Nurses Day, an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the exceptional care provided by our dedicated school nurses: Becky Richardson, Jackie Lee, Janette Bernard, and Bobbi Landon. Each of them plays a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of our students, staff, and community. Their expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment contribute significantly to our educational environment, making it a safer and more nurturing place for everyone. Thank you, Becky, Jackie, Janette, and Bobbi, for all that you do every day to keep our Bearcat family healthy and well. Your efforts are deeply appreciated!

Thank you, Director David Chaney, for orchestrating a wonderful performance by the Mena Middle School Band last night. Your dedication and talent truly shone through, making the event a memorable experience for all who attended. The students' skills and enthusiasm were a testament to your outstanding guidance and leadership in music education. We are grateful for your commitment to our band program and for inspiring our young musicians to achieve such impressive heights. Thank you once again for a fantastic evening of music and talent.

The FFA end-of-year banquet happened on Tuesday. The event was highlighted by the awarding of over $44,000 in scholarships and a special musical performance by Kiylee Hughes, who delivered a unique rendition of Green Day's song, Good Riddance, with lyrics adapted to reflect her experiences in FFA. This memorable evening showcased both the talent and dedication of our students, underscoring the community’s strong support for the future of agriculture and our youth.

This week, sophomore Elliot Dugan showcased her athletic talents at the Meet of Champs, an all-classifications track meet held in Lake Hamilton. Elliot competed in the high jump event and achieved an impressive 5th place overall. Reaching a height of 5 feet, her performance highlights her dedication and skill in track and field, representing Mena Public Schools with pride and excellence. Congratulations to Elliot on her outstanding achievement!

May 22nd is the last day of school for our students and May 23rd is our last in-service day for the year. As in years past, we will assemble at around 10 am in the PAC to recognize achievements, and career milestones, and to give special recognition to our retirees. If you are reaching a years-of-service (1, 5, 10, 15, etc.) milestone this year or if you have made any significant achievements, please take a moment to fill out this form. Your response will ensure you receive the recognition you deserve for your years of dedicated service. Also, Christ’s Community Fellowship will be feeding us with a bar-b-que lunch right after the ceremony again. We very much appreciate that!

It was another good week for us at Mena Public Schools!

At Mena Public Schools our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Have a nice weekend!

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