Superintendent’s report: food service retention high; graduations, arts and plans for new elementary and stadium highlighted

District leadership reviewed annual and end‑of‑year items including the food service annual report, graduation outcomes, arts events and upcoming construction projects.

A staff member (food service) provided the statutory annual food service report and said the district had added kitchen equipment and refrigeration at several schools and that staff retention in the department was 94 percent; the speaker noted one recent retirement, one staff move and one employee out sick. The staff member said the timing of the report is chosen to coincide with the end of the school year.

The board also heard updates on academic and extracurricular highlights. A board member noted that graduations for Mercer Central Patriot and the high school went well and that seniors earned "millions of dollars" in scholarships, although an exact total was not provided. Staff highlighted an arts showcase month, award performances and the district’s Hall of Fame efforts; athletic staff noted recognition of two state track-and-field champions.

Looking ahead, a staff member (administration) said the district expects to complete a new elementary school this coming year and will begin the design process for a new stadium and tennis courts (including consideration of artificial turf and resurfaced tennis courts). Officials also said the district will emphasize soft skills — communication, collaboration and leadership — and renew a focus on writing instruction in the coming school year.

Why it matters: the food service staffing level and equipment upgrades affect meal service and operations. Graduation and scholarship reporting reflect student outcomes and community recognition. Planned construction projects will alter facilities and program offerings.

Next steps: staff will continue project design work and regular reporting; no board action was recorded on these informational items.