Civil Municipal Magazine Aug 2023

260 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 8 a simple lunch or take a more hands-on tour, engaging in an experiential learning process. Under the banner of the district’s presence, the students and their efforts are distinctly visible in the community. Bates refers to a recent autism awareness walk, an event that saw participation from all across the county. The community rallied behind this cause, donating over thirty- five baskets and helping raise more than $7,000. “Just making sure awareness of the kids that we have, making sure that they’re included as part of the community, as part of our district, that is a really big priority for us,” Bates emphasizes. Bates’s responsibilities are not limited to the oversight of these dedicated programs; they also extend to mental health services in collaboration with the guidance counselors and social workers at the district. This comprehensive web of care and support underpins the “whatever it takes” ethos that pervades every corner of Jefferson- Morgan, shaping an environment conducive to the growth and prosperity of every student. Building a Future-Ready Curriculum Samuel Silbaugh, the Principal of Jefferson- Morgan Elementary, expounds on the school’s adaptive curriculum that effectively prepares its students for the evolving economy. The elementary school curriculum emphasizes both college-based careers and skills-based ones from as early as kindergarten. “Yes, we are,” Silbaugh affirms when asked about the school’s focus on developing career- centric skills among their students. “Our guidance counselor spearheads our career education... it starts in kindergarten.” A dedicated Makerspace room and STEM labs add practical dimensions to this education. Silbaugh paints a vivid picture of sixth graders using tools and creating science-related projects that align with skills-based careers. The curriculum doesn’t end when the school bell rings. Several extracurricular activities supplement the student’s academic experience, enriching their learning journey. “We have an art club that meets after school. We have a chorus and band... a Stem club... our tech team meets after school,” Silbaugh lists, demonstrating the school’s commitment to extending learning beyond strict academic confines. The school also provides after-school tutoring, reinforcing the academic support for students who need it. Embracing the ‘Whatever It Takes’ Philosophy Silbaugh reaffirms the school’s commitment to the ‘whatever it takes’ motto, even in early childhood experiences. This all-hands-on- deck approach truly reflects the heart of the Jefferson-Morgan school district. In line with this philosophy, the school organizes several initiatives to ensure that students and their parents feel a part of the school community from the very start. Silbaugh elaborates, “Over the summer we did a roundup. Pre-K, kindergarten roundup. We wanted an opportunity for parents to get together in incoming kindergarten so they get to know each other. Kids get to know each other.”