Superintendent reports summer school success, middle school renovations and early childhood center progress

Superintendent Dr. McGraw reported to the Jefferson City School Board that summer school concluded successfully and shared updates on facilities, student achievements and outreach events.

Why it matters: these operational updates provide the board and community a snapshot of district programs, capital work in progress and student accomplishments ahead of the new school year.

Dr. McGraw noted middle school renovations at Lewis & Clark and Thomas Jefferson (TJ) are underway: foundations and additions are being built, sections of library space are being converted into six classrooms, and flooring/terrazzo work is progressing. He described photographs in the board packet that show construction and outfitting of classroom and foyer spaces.

On the early childhood center, McGraw said hallways and themed pods are near completion and playground work began the week of the meeting. The district scheduled the grand opening and tours for Thursday, Aug. 7 at 3:30 p.m.

McGraw also recognized board member Anne Blumke Warren for earning a distinguished board-member certification presented at the MSBA conference. He highlighted student achievements: Jordan Martin (JCHS) was named the Missouri Gatorade Player of the Year in baseball; Lily Davis won the state championship in shot put; Terri Gustarett won back-to-back state 100-meter titles; the archery team and Nichols Career Center students had notable accomplishments; and Miles Swayze placed second at national speech and debate while also participating in culinary studies.

No board action was required on these reports; they were provided for information and community awareness.