Dear Marion County Schools Staff, Students, and Families:
Welcome back to another exciting school year! I am thrilled to see our schools come alive once again with the energy, enthusiasm, and passion of our students, staff, and community. We have missed our students greatly, and I can't wait to see them thrive as we begin this new chapter together.
This year is especially exciting because of the incredible performance of our students on the WV State Assessments. Marion County Schools ranked 9th overall in ELA, Math, and Science out of all 55 counties in West Virginia! This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of our students, staff, and families. I am anxious to see what this year will bring, not just academically but also in athletics and our fine arts programs.
Marion County Schools has a long-standing tradition of excellence, and I am excited to see that tradition continue in the 2024-2025 school year. As our Board of Education President Mr. George Boyles proudly stated, "Over the last school year, there was a coordinated effort by principals, assistant principals, teachers, service personnel, and central office staff members to ensure that our students’ test scores had the best chance of improving. It takes everyone working together with the students and parents for the common goal. To be 9th overall, in the state is outstanding. I just want to convey my sincere thanks to each of you. You can definitely make an impact on student lives. Keep working to make Marion County Schools a top-rated school system.”
Today was a wonderful first morning, filled with smiles, energy, and excitement. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this possible: our bus drivers, cooks, custodians, secretaries, aides, nurses, teachers, and principals. You are the heart of our school community, and we couldn't do it without you.
As always, there are a few hiccups that come with the start of a new year, and I want to thank our families and staff for their patience and understanding as we work through them. Once again, thank you for your continued dedication and support. Nothing makes me prouder than being the Superintendent of Marion County Schools. Let's Turn on! Tune in! and TURN IT UP! for an incredible 2024-2025 school year!
With excitement and gratitude,
Dr. Donna Heston, Superintendent of Marion County Schools