Shelby County Public Schools

WLC 10.9.24

wlc heaqder
October 9, 2024
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Success is not final; failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.

– Winston S. Churchill

I hope everyone is having a great week as we head toward fall break here at SCPS. I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for their hard work over these first nine weeks. While students will enjoy a day off on Friday, our staff will be busy preparing for their return after the break. Teachers will analyze KSA and other data to develop action plans for increasing student proficiency. Though we have made significant progress, we know there is much to be done.

Our focus remains on two critical goals: ensuring students reach proficiency in academic standards and providing them with opportunities to practice the work and life skills outlined in our Profile of a Graduate. This is not an “either/or” situation—we must and will do both. Our teachers and administrators understand this better than anyone, and they are working tirelessly to achieve these goals. I could not be prouder of their dedication and the incredible work they are doing for our students.

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with several students during our middle and high school student advisory council meetings. It was a fantastic experience. Doug Semenick led them through an executive leadership seminar, and they brainstormed ideas for school improvement. Being around so many talented students was truly energizing.

Finally, I want to say thank you. Thank you for welcoming my family into this community and allowing us to be part of such an amazing place. Every day, I wake up grateful for the privilege of serving this district and community. After three months on the job, I am certain I have the honor of being the superintendent of the best school district in Kentucky. 

Have a safe and wonderful fall break! We look forward to seeing everyone back on October 21st.


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Check out some of the learning that is happening in our district.

students talking to a teacher at mcms
Ms. Chesterfield's class at MCMS.
student standing beside project
A Heritage Elementary student can tell you about Natural Disasters in our world.
local authors tells story to simpsonville students
A local author shared her book about hedge apples with Simpsonville students.
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Student representatives from grades 6 - 12 gathered at the Central Office on Friday, October 4th. They are a part of the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council. Doug Seminick will work with students on leadership qualities and will work with Dr. Matthews regarding feedback about learning, leading, and living in SCPS.

Dr. Matthews leads student advisory.
students raising one finger
student jabbing a potato with a straw
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Inspired activities and community engagement enhance our learning and leadership across the district.

NECC students and parents sitting on the floor
Loving Literacy at NECC
four students at mcms gym
MCMS Students
cotton candy machine and a line of parents and students
Simpsonville Elementary held their Fall Festival and it was fun for all!
southside student holding a jersey
A Southside Student is awarded a Tiger's jersey for being the definition of Smart, Strong and Selfless.
collage of our custodial staff
Last week we celebrated our custodial staff on National Custodian Day. We appreciate the people who keep our schools clean and make us look good!
West Middle School Choir concert
Above: West Middle School Choir performed their concert at First Baptist Church on Tuesday, October 8th. Below: SCHS Choir performed their fall concert with a theme of the sun, stars and the moon.
high school choir students

ICYMI: Dr. Matthews shares a Weekly Recap every Friday. We share information and pictures from the past week.

Upcoming Events:

October 9th - WMS Band Concert - 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

October 10th - PSE Fall Fun Run - 8:00 am

October 10th - Heritage Elementary's Fall Festival 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

October 10th - SCPS Board of Education Meeting at 6:00 pm at 1155 W. Main Street.

October 10th - MLCHS Band Concert - 7:00 pm

October 11th - NO SCHOOL - Professional Development Day

October 14th - 18th - SCPS Fall Break Week