Monroe County Schools Radio

It’s been a big week for Monroe County Schools.  After months of searching, the Monroe County Board of Education announced the sole finalist for Superintendent.  Let’s listen as Board Chair Stuart Pippin shares the news.

Nearly 300 Mary Persons Bulldogs gathered at Dan Pitts Stadium last weekend for their graduation ceremony.  Valedictorian Sydney Stapleton, Salutatorian Ellie Adams and Principal Tammy Marion all spoke before the students received their diplomas.  Let’s listen. 

We have a huge event this week at the Monroe County Fine Arts Center. Mary Persons students will bring one of Broadway’s longest-running musicals to the FAC.  These kids have been working for months on the world-wide sensation, Les Misérables. You will be amazed when you hear the people sing the classic songs from this award-winning musical. Let’s check in with director Holly Spires, and a few cast members, for more on this amazing performance.

Every day, dozens of people fasten their seatbelts and hit the road with one common goal, to safely transport your children to and from school.  Let’s meet the man in charge of our bus fleet, and talk to a few of those special drivers who greet your kids every morning.

The Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen, or  REACH, Georgia program was designed to provide promising students with the support needed to graduate from high school, to access higher education and ensure that these students graduate with relevant postsecondary degrees in a timely manner. In a two-year pilot beginning in 2012, REACH Georgia added five school systems and committed 35 students as REACH Scholars and invested $350,000 to student scholarships. Today, REACH serves all 180 school systems across Georgia and more than 3,600 Scholars, committing over $36 million in scholarships. Monroe County Schools had our first four REACH Scholar graduates with the Mary Persons High class of 2022. Today, we have 8 scholarship recipients across the district. Two of them are getting ready to graduate with the class of 2023, Trilok Patel and Austin Vaughn.   MCS Radio spoke with them about the opportunity the scholarship has provided.

Maintaining the technology needed for our staff and students is not an easy task.  But our Chief Technology Officer, Josh Griffis, is up to the challenge.  MCS Radio spoke with Mr. Griffis about his first year on the job, and what it takes to keep us online.

We hope you enjoyed our elementary school plays this year.  All three schools did fantastic jobs with their performances.  Now it’s time for the middle school to take the stage under the direction of first-year chorus teacher Kelley Monahan.   Let’s check in with her about this week’s show, Matilda, JR.

The Mary Persons construction program recently earned its industry certification.   But what does that mean? MP-TV spoke with Construction teacher DJ Hurm to find out.

The MPHS tennis team is swinging into action on the newly renovated courts. MPTV spoke with Coach Bernard and two players to see how our Bulldogs are looking this season.

Our fine arts students have been in competition mode this month.  There were literary competitions, all-state performances, and both the band and the chorus recently competed in the Large Group Performance Evaluations and they did very, very well.  To give you a taste of what the judges experienced, we have a few selections for you to enjoy. 

Safety is one of the top priorities for Monroe County school leaders.   That’s why each school has a dedicated resource officer.  MCS Radio spoke with Sergeant Sam Leggett about his team and their duties.

In case you missed it, the Mary Persons Game Day Cheerleaders recently won their second, consecutive state championship.  But just what is the Game Day squad?  MP-TV’s Molly Rivers spoke with the coaches and a cheerleader about the team.  Please note, this interview was recorded prior to the state championship competition.

It’s the time of year when Mary Persons seniors are deciding which college to attend and how to pay for it.  MP-TV’s Faith Jones spoke with the Mary Persons counselors to find out all about the scholarship application process.

The Junior/Senior Prom is one of the most memorable nights for a high school student, and it will be here before you know it. MP-TV’s Mary Michael Tane tells us all about this year’s special night.

Good morning.  Forsyth and Monroe County recently celebrated its first Super Bowl winner, Malik Herring.   The Monroe County Commissioners made a proclamation declaring February 25 as Malik Herring Appreciation Day, the City of Forsyth gave Herring a key to the city, and Monroe County Schools named herring a "Friend of Education."   Let's listen to part of the ceremony.

In less than two weeks, the students of K.B. Sutton Elementary will take us on a magical trip down the yellow brick road.  MCS Radio spoke with director Sandy Watson about this fantastic production of "The Wizard of Oz."

The Mary Persons Golf Team is teeing off on a new season, and this year, they’re under the direction of a new coach.  MP-TV’s Hayden Walker sat down with Coach Easterly for a preview of the season.

Pre-kindergarten registration is right around the corner.  As you probably know, we can only accept a limited number of pre-k students each year, so it’s very important to register in a timely fashion.   This year, our process has changed a little, so we spoke with System Registrar Lisa Watson to learn everything you need to know before registration day gets here.

Each year, the Mary Persons senior who is in the top ten percent of the class and who earns the highest SAT score becomes the STAR student.  This year, it’s Ellie Adams.  MP-TV spoke with Miss Adams about receiving the recognition.

Spring is always the busiest time of year at the Monroe County Fine Arts Center, and this year is no different.  From school plays to student concerts, there’s always something going on.   Plus, this week, season tickets go on sale to the general public for our next concert series.  Let’s check in with Fine Arts Coordinator Samantha Stephens for more.

Mary Persons has developed a strong wrestling program, and it’s earning state recognition. MP-TV’s Alex Johnston spoke with several members of the Mat Dawgs about this year’s season.

When it comes to fine arts, our Monroe County students shine.  Many of you watched this week as our Hubbard Elementary students brought the story of Moana to life on stage.  Now, it’s T.G. Scott’s turn to take center stage.  We spoke with music teacher Lynneth Whitten to find out more about their upcoming play, and the powerful lesson it offers the audience.

"Press Start" is just one show of many headed to the Monroe County Fine Arts Center this year.  Let’s check in with Fine Arts Coordinator Samantha Stephens for more about fine arts educational opportunities and our next professional concert season.

We’re just a few days away from two of our district’s premiere events for students,  the MCMS Valentine’s Dance and the annual Father-Daughter Dance at Hubbard.  For more on those events, and some other exciting activities for our students, we spoke with Parent Engagement Specialists Brandi Pye and Conni Tane.

Monroe County Schools is gearing up for its annual employment fair, and this year it’s going to be bigger than ever.  We begin with Monroe County School Superintendent, Dr. Mike Hickman, and Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Operations, Dr. Jim Finch,  with more on what to expect at this year’s big event.

Another great event at the Monroe County Fine Arts Center this week is the kickoff production for our spring season of musicals.  Our Hubbard Elementary students will take you from the edge of the water, to where the light from the sky meets the sea, in their amazing production of Moana, Jr.  We spoke with  music teacher Emily Rusgrove, as well as the talented McKenna Moore and Elijah Hoover, to get the details about the show.

Sarah Alford hit the ground running as the new principal of the Monroe County Achievement Center.   She’s spent her first few months on the job getting to know the students, while also planning for the return of one of Forsyth’s favorite events.  Let’s find out more.

It’s a new year and a new semester for Monroe County students.  That means we’re half-way through the school year.  So far, It’s been a great one for our students and the community.  Dr. Mike Hickman, Superintendent of schools, joins us this week with a recap of some of the big accomplishments we’ve seen this school year.

We have a lot of great CTAE pathways for our students to experience.   MP-TV tells us about a few of them. 

We begin with exciting news for the whole community.  The Technical College System of Georgia has awarded Monroe County Schools a grant totaling $3.1 million to create the new MPower College and Career academy.  The academy will work in partnership with Central Georgia Technical College and Gordon State College to offer career training for Monroe County and Crawford County students and community members.  

This week, we continue our look at some of the specialized offerings already available for our Mary Persons students.  MPTV tells us more.

In just a few weeks, you have the opportunity to enjoy the sounds of a Bluegrass Gospel Christmas.  Jason Hoard is bringing some of his well-known friends together for a night of family fun, worship, and of course, some holiday tunes.  Communications Specialist Kari Buckindail had the chance to meet Jason and chat with him about the show and what you’ll see on stage.

We begin with a look at one of the biggest businesses in the State of Georgia, agriculture.  Agriculture contributes nearly $70 billion annually Georgia's economy, according to the UGA Center for Agribusiness & Economic Development.  Here in Monroe County, our students begin ag education at a very young age.  MPTV’s Madison Justice spoke with Willow Waldrep about her time in our ag education program.

‘Tis the season for holiday music.  For the next month, The Monroe County Fine Arts Center will be filled with the sounds of the season.  MPTV’s Emma Phalen checked in with Fine Arts Coordinator Samantha Stephens for a rundown of all the holiday events you and your family can attend.  To get you even more excited, we also have a special message for you from our holiday headliner, Jason Hoard.

For many people, the high school year book is a cherished memory.  But what does it take to put together the perfect annual?   MPTV’s Caroline Buffington spoke with yearbook advisor Chelsie Jenkins for more.

Mary Persons High School offers a little something for everyone.  From automotive to drama, all students have the opportunity to take part in clubs and extracurricular activities.   Our MPTV broadcast students put together an in-depth look at the many offerings available for our Bulldogs.  This week's featured clubs include:

• FBLA
• ECOS
• Best Buddies
• American Sign Language Club
• Young Investors

Mary Persons High School just finished its first season with new softball coach Jessica Evans.  MPTV’s Trystin Brummet sat down with Coach Evans to learn more about her decision to come to Monroe County.

This week, Mary Persons newest sport kicked off with a splash.  The new swim team has its first competition this weekend.  To learn more about the new sport, MPTV’s JaMai Davis sat down with Coach Schon Wood.

We’re heading into a holiday season full of exciting concerts at the Monroe County Fine Arts Center.  This week, the Mary Persons musical theatre students will take you into the wonderful world of Disney.  Enjoy a special Disney Cabaret Thursday at 6 or Saturday at 2 p.m. at the FAC.  Tickets are just 10 dollars, and children wearing their favorite Disney costumes will get in free.  To get you in the mood for the fun night of music, let’s listen in to last week’s chorus concert at Mercer University.  

This week we wrap up our series on the schools of Monroe County with a look at Hubbard Elementary School.  MP-TV tells you what life is like at the Hub.

Our athletic offerings continue to grow at Mary Persons High School and Monroe County Middle School.  MP-TV’s Erin Duggar sat down with athletic trainer Sean Boland to learn what it takes to keep our players safe and strong on the field.

Our Mary Persons Volleyball team has had a great season.  MP-TV spoke with Coach Hannah Grossman to learn more about this year’s team.

Today we continue our in-depth coverage of Monroe County Schools with a look at K.B. Sutton Elementary.  MP-TV introduces us to the new KBS Principal, Christina Chapman, and to this year’s Teacher of the Year, Amanda Holloway.

Next month, Monroe County voters will decide whether to continue the district’s ESPLOST, or education special purpose local option sales tax.  Kari Buckindail sat down with local realtor and community ESPLOST committee member,  Kerri Swearingen to learn more about the referendum.

Lisa Budd has a passion for feeding children, which is one reason why she’s the Director of School Nutrition for Monroe County Schools.  MP-TV’s Lawson Harris spoke with Ms. Budd about the challenges facing school nutrition, and some of her favorite things in the kitchen.

It’s a great day to be a Monroe County Middle School bulldog, just ask Dr. Efrem Yarber, principal of MCMS.  His famous catchphrase is just one of the many things you’ll hear at the middle school.  MP-TV spent some time with Dr. Yarber and teacher of the year, Ms. Mitchell, to learn all about the Monroe County Middle School.

It’s a big week of concerts at the Monroe County Fine Arts Center.  Sunday (9/25), award-winning country singer Pam Tillis takes the stage at 6 p.m.  Then Monday (9/26)  the Mary Persons Chorus presents their fall concert at 7 p.m.  Monroe County Middle School’s choir performs Tuesday night, and the Mary Persons band presents their fall concert on Wednesday.  We leave you now with some selections from last year to get you in the mood for our week of music.  Enjoy and have a wonderful day.

We’re in week seven of the school year, and we’re off to a great start.  MCS Radio spoke with Monroe County Superintendent Dr. Mike Hickman to get his thoughts on the start of school, the new athletic event protocols and a big award for the district.

Parent involvement is a key factor to a child’s success in the classroom.  MP-TV’s Madison Justice spoke with Dr. Becky Brown about how parents can get involved in their child’s education.

Our Mary Persons advanced drama students are working hard on this year’s one act play.  MP-TV’s Maddie Franklin caught up with drama teacher Holly Spires to learn about this year’s play and the annual competition.

Today we’re continuing our look at our Monroe County Schools.  MP-TV’s Austin Howell and Darrell Lowe join us now to tell us all about Mary Persons High School.

Mary Persons students have a wide variety of clubs and activities to choose from.  This week we're focusing on HOSA, which is a club that promotes career opportunities in the health care industry while working to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.  MP-TV joins us now with more.

This week we begin with an in-depth at T.G. Scott Elementary School.  MPTV’s Alex Johnston and Jhavier Locus join us now with more.

From teaching guitar classes to managing the fine arts center, Ms. Samantha Stephens stays pretty busy.  MPTV’s Emma Phelan caught up with Ms. Stephens to see what’s happening in the classroom and at the FAC.

Cross Country season is underway, and the team is off to a great start.  MPTV’s Sarah Baker spoke with the coach to learn more.

There’s a new woman in charge at the Monroe County Achievement Center.  Mrs. Sarah Alford officially took the reins on Monday, August 22.  MPTV’s Mary Michael Tane spoke with Mrs. Alford about her new role with Monroe County Schools.

Another face you’ll find at the Achievement Center is Dr. Kellis Bolad.  MPTV’s Hayden Walker spoke with Dr. Bolland about life at MCAC.

You’ve probably noticed by now that Monroe County Schools launched redesigned websites and a new phone app this summer.  The new digital system offers us more ways to reach out to our parents and students.  MPTV’s Darrell Lowe sat down with Kari Buckindail to chat about this new technology.

Football season is here, and we are so excited to route for our favorite bulldogs.  But football isn’t the only thing you’ll find at the Pitt on Friday nights.  MPTV spoke with the leaders of the Bulldog Brigade Guard Dogs about what you can expect during halftime this season.

4H offers our students tons of activities to enjoy.  Kari Buckindail spoke with our county’s 4H agent to learn more about the program.

Welcome to a new season of Monroe County Schools Radio.  We’re kicking things off this week with our new Assistant Superintendent of Personnel and Operations, Dr. Jim Finch.

Next month you have the opportunity to attend a special concert at the Monroe County Fine Arts Center.  You will have an up-close, intimate performance with one of the most-decorated performers to hit our stage.  Let’s check in with Fine Arts Coordinator Samantha Stephens for more.

Just last week, Monroe County Schools announced the 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Amanda Holloway.  Let’s listen to the ceremony.

Just one week ago, more than 250 Mary Persons seniors officially became high school graduates.  As usual, the momentous occasional was celebrated with a ceremony at Dan Pitts Stadium.  Let’s listen to the graduation night speakers.

In just a few weeks, you will be able to access information about Monroe County Schools in a whole new way.  We’re launching new websites for all of our schools, as well as the district.  In addition, we’re getting our own Monroe County Schools app.  MPTV spoke with Communications Specialist Kari Buckindail to get all the details.

We begin this episode with Monroe County School Superintendent Mike Hickman.  Dr. Hickman sat down with me to share his thoughts on the school year, staffing changes and safety protocols for our students.

Mary Persons students will see some new faces when they arrive for the first day of school.  One of those faces belongs to new Assistant Principal Sherondah Strode.  Ms. Strode spoke with MPTV about her move from the middle school.

Another new, but familiar, face for the students belongs to Reagan Sanders.  Ms. Sanders is officially becoming the school’s band director.  You might recognize her because she subbed in the band room this year.  She spoke with MPTV about becoming the official leader of the Bulldog Brigade.

We continue our look at the legacies of Monroe County Schools with a visit to Monroe County Middle School.  After 31 years of leading middle and high school students, Mrs. Theresa Alexander is leaving the choir room.  MPTV spoke with Mrs. Alexander about her decision to retire and what’s next for her.

Over At Mary Persons, longtime teacher Jennifer Hogan is also transitioning into retirement.  MPTV’s Sarah Poole spoke with Mrs. Hogan to learn some of her favorite memories, and to see what advice she has for new teachers.

And at Hubbard Elementary, After 30 years, Mrs. Becky Cawthon is leaving the classroom for the last time.  MPTV’s Jackson Black spoke with her about her time as a kindergarten teacher.

In just a few weeks, Christina Chapman will take the reigns at K.B. Sutton Elementary.  MPTV spoke with Mrs. Chapman about her promotion to principal.

As the school year winds down, Dr. MeQuanta McCord is wrapping up her first year as principal of Hubbard Elementary.  MPTV’s Jackson Balfour sat down with Dr. McCord for a look back at her first year as the school leader.

This week we continue our look at the legacies of Monroe County schools.   After 25 years with the district, Assistant Superintendent Jackson Daniel is stepping down. MPTV’s Maddie Franklin sat down with Mr. Daniel to look back at his career, and to find out what’s next.

It's tough to step into a position held by the same person for a long time, but Mary Persons Principal Jim Finch says he’s up to the challenge.  Campbell Brown spoke with Dr. Finch about his move from principal to assistant superintendent.

Payroll Clerk Pandy Horton spent many years making sure Monroe County school employees are paid on time.  But this summer, she is retiring from the Central Office.  Faith Jones spoke with Mrs. Horton about her plans for retirement.

Monroe County is looking for millionaires.  Media Specialist Erin Carr explains what a Monroe Millionaire is, and how a student can qualify.

At T.G. Scott Elementary, Chad Sanders is wrapping up his first year as the school principal.  We begin with a chat with him about his time as the big bear on campus.

Also at TGS, we have two long-time teachers transitioning into retirement, Mrs. Mandi King and Mrs. Barbara Dye.  MP-TV spoke with both teachers about their plans for life after the classroom.

New TGS Teacher Toni Daniely has enjoyed her first year in the classroom.  MPTV spoke with her about her time as a T.G. Scott Bear.

You never know what you’ll see when you work as a school nurse.  MPTV’s Jake Barlett spoke with MPHS nurse Calondra Lyons about what it’s like taking care of so many kids.

The end of the school year brings many staffing changes to any school district.  For Monroe County Schools, that is especially true this year.  Over the next few weeks, we’ll highlight some of the district’s long-serving staff that’s retiring.  Plus we'll meet some of the new faces you’ll see in our schools and offices.  This week, we’re focusing on the Mary Persons Media Center.  Lauri English spent more than thirty years on the MP campus.  MPTV’s Josh Harris sat down with the outgoing media specialist to learn more about her time as a bulldog.

It’s hard to step into a role held by the same person for decades, but Amanda Bernard says she’s up to the challenge.  MPTV’s Gwenneth Cabe spoke with Mrs. Bernard about her move to the main campus.

Improving literacy levels for all students is one of the system priorities for Monroe County Schools.  One group working to help achieve that goal is the Monroe County Literacy Council.  MPTV’s Emmy Starr sat down with Misti Tonn about the council and how it helps our students.

High School students have the opportunity to earn some very special scholarships based on high achievement in specific areas.  Seniors can strive for the Golden Eagle scholarship program, while sophomores and juniors can apply for the Governor's Honors program.  MPTV’s Jackson Sparks spoke with Teresa Roller about the two programs and their requirements.

Our CTAE students have the opportunity to earn credentials in various career pathways, like construction.  Adam Simmons spoke with Construction Teacher DJ Hurm about his industry-certified program and what those credentials can mean to students entering the workforce.

Mary Persons students performed extremely well in this year’s literary competition.  But what exactly is it?  MPTV’s Kayla Montgomery sat down with Choral Director Charles Hernandez to learn more about what he calls "the winter sport" of the performing arts.

Mary Persons students have lots of clubs and activities they can join.  One of those options is Key Club.  We spoke with advisor Mark Smith to learn more about Key Club and why it looks good on college applications.

Monroe County Schools had several submissions to this year’s Georgia Student Media Festival.  For more on the state competition, and how the judging works, MPTV’s Moriah Germany spoke with Media Specialist Nikki Renfroe.

This week, the Monroe County Board of Education approved new principals for Mary Persons High School and K.B. Sutton Elementary School.  Dr. Mike Hickman, Monroe County Superintendent, made the announcements at Thursday night’s called board meeting.  Let’s listen to what he had to say.

It’s an exciting time at the Monroe County Fine Arts Center.  The first three concerts of the 2022-2023 season were just announced, and they’re going to be fantastic shows.  Let’s check in with Samantha Stephens for more on the upcoming events.

Putting together a school yearbook can be challenging, especially on the high school level.  MPTV spoke with the editor-in-chief and the academic advisor about the process and excitement of building the Empescope.

Next weekend, Mary Persons Juniors and Seniors will don their best formal wear for one of the most anticipated events of the year, the prom.  MPTV brings you all, including major parking changes that could impact your night.

The Mary Persons Baseball team is off to a great start this year.   So far, the team has a 15 and 1 record, and the season still has a long way to go.   Let’s check in with the coach and one of our record-setting players.

Our Mary Persons Literary Team had a great showing at the recent GHSA AAA state competition.  Meghan Bennett,  Sydney Stapleton and Abi Wilks are the state champions in Girls trio.   They recently performed together at the Monroe County Fine Arts Center.   Let’s listen to the award winners.

The clock is ticking for the class of 2022.  We’re just two months away from graduation.  MPTV’s Ryan Rodgers spoke with Counselor Tasha Burston about graduation requirements for this year’s seniors.

One of the most anticipated announcements for each graduating class is who earned the title of valedictorian.  MPTV’s Jacob Bartlett with Dr. Jim Finch to learn how the valedictorian is selected and what it means to earn that achievement.

Monroe County loves to support local festivals, like the recent last Forsythia Festival.  Next month, you and your family can attend the annual Autism Awareness Festival.  But, the big event needs a little help from you for it to be successful.  MPTV’s Jacob Hanson spoke with Carrie Owen to learn more about the event and how you can help.

It’s almost time for the Mary Persons spring musical.  This year, the theater department will take you to the hills of Austria for The Sound of Music.  MP-TV’s Maddie Franklin sat down with director Holly Spires about this year’s production.

This week the K.B, Sutton Knights get their moment in the spotlight.  The cast of Annie Junior will take the stage Thursday and Friday night at the Fine Arts Center.  MPTV’s Kayla Montgomery spoke with director Sandy Watson to get a preview of the show.

Next month, our Monroe County students will face their annual standardized tests.  It’s a stressful time for teachers and students, and this year there’s a new woman in charge of testing.  For more on that, MPTV’s Adam Simmons sat down with Dr. Becky Brown.

Also, soccer season is here.  MPTV’s Caroline Buffington spoke with the coaches to learn more about this year’s teams.

Scholarship deadlines are quickly approaching, and we want to make sure all of our seniors have the information they need to apply for funding.  For more on that, MPTV spoke with the Mary Persons counselors.

Best Buddies is an international organization working to end the social, physical and economic isolation of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  Mary Persons has an active Best Buddies chapter on campus, and it’s always looking for new members.  MPTV’s Elijah Jones sat down with Elizabeth Holloway to learn more about the organization.

Forsyth’s premiere event is right around the corner.  The 35th annual Forsythia Festival happens this weekend.  MCS Radio sat down with Chamber CEO Rebecca Stone to get the inside scoop on this year’s event.

Pre-k registration is underway.  Packet pickup started Monday at the Board of Education. For information about registering your child, we spoke with System Registrar Lisa Watson.

Also, we’re wrapping up our focus on Career Technical and Agricultural Education month with a look at a few more pathways available to our Mary Persons students.  Today we're learning about automotive technology, building construction and business education.  

You may notice big changes when you head to the Pitt for football next fall.  MPTV’s Molly Rivers spoke with Roger Onstott about the stadium upgrade plan, as well as other projects underway.

The Vision of Monroe County Schools is to develop students with the knowledge and skills to be successful.  One way the system does that is by placing an emphasis on Career Technical and Agricultural Education or CTAE.  Our in-depth look at CTAE month continues this week with a  focus on two very different pathways available to our Mary Persons Students.

Also, some Monroe County students are working hard on their submissions for the Georgia Student Media Festival.  The festival is designed to stimulate student interest and involvement in all types of media production. This is accomplished by providing an opportunity for students to show their work to an interested audience, to have their work critiqued by a panel of expert judges, and to be stimulated by the work of other students.  T.G. Scott Media Specialist Nikki Renfroe has a passion for the festival.  We spoke with her to learn more about it. 

For the first time ever, Mary Persons High School has two star students, Maradeth Leverett & Marlee Coffman.  These two students tied for the highest SAT score and they’re both in the top 10 of their class.  Hear from both of them about this historic moment. 

From learning disabilities to behavioral disorders, some students need a little extra support in the classroom.  For parents, it can be difficult to make sure you have the right plan for your child to help him or her achieve academic success.  That’s where Parent Mentor Jennifer Brown comes in.  Learn more about her role in the system and how she can help you and your child.

It’s an exciting time for elementary school parents.  For the first time in two years, our students will be able to put on their spring musicals.  T.G. Scott Elementary takes the stage this week with Space Pirates: A New Children’s Musical.

In this week’s episode, learn more about the counseling services offered at the schools, and meet the woman tasked with keeping the programs on task.

We'll also share the details on one of the hottest events of the year, the Monroe County Middle School Valentine's Dance.

Every five years, school districts must go through a lengthy process to attain accreditation every five years.  It’s a huge undertaking, but it’s very important for the students. Monroe County Schools will undergo review this week.  To explain the process and what it means for our students, we spoke with Alicia Elder, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning.

Also, the Monroe County School Nutrition Program has an exciting announcement this week.   It's a new partnership that will offer students a true farm-to-table experience.  Program Director Lisa Budd gives us the inside scoop.

Samantha Stephens, the Monroe County Fine Arts Coordinator, is taking on a new role teacher, teacher.  Emma Phelan sat down with Ms. Stephens to learn about her new guitar class at Mary Persons High School.

Also, sports fans get ready.  There's a big basketball game coming up that you don't want to miss.  Get all the details about the upcoming MPHS Alumni Game.  

In this week’s episode, meet the new man in charge of the Monroe County Schools technology department.

Plus, we finish our in-depth look at our elementary schools’ instructional coaches.

And, the Mary Persons Robotics team is taking the competition world by storm.  Learn more about the program.

Today we continue our series on Instructional Coaches with a visit to T.G. Scott Elementary School.  We'll meet Misti Tonn and learn how her role benefits both the students and teachers.

Plus, the Monroe County Fine Arts Center was filled with the sounds of the holidays throughout the month of December.  Here's a recap of some of our Monroe County students' performances.  Enjoy!

Holiday break is officially underway for Monroe County Schools.   The first semester has wrapped up, and students are enjoying some much needed time off.  For his thoughts on the first half of the school year, and a number of other topics, we spoke with Monroe County Schools Superintendent Dr. Mike Hickman.

Today we’re starting a three-part series on Instructional Coaches. Who are they?  What exactly do they do?   And why are they important to our schools?  For our first segment, MP-TV’s Maddie Franklin spoke with Hubbard Elementary School’s Instructional Coach, Ronna DiMichiel.

Our students depend on technology both in the classroom and in their personal lives.  To make sure they have working, updated equipment, Monroe county schools employees a fantastic technology team.  Hear from outgoing CTO Dr. Valerie Mercer and Instructional Technology Coach Ronnie Shipman on what it takes to keep thousands of devices in the hands of our students and staff. 

Plus, 'tis the season for holiday music.  We'll share some of the Monroe County Middle School Chorus' Christmas Concert.  

In this week's episode meet the Monroe County Middle School counselors who are dedicated to the emotional well-being of our students.   Plus, there is a wide range of activities available to the students of Mary Persons. Hear from our bulldogs on wrestling, basketball, visual ensemble and more.  

In this week's episode, meet our three elementary school counselors and learn they ways they help our students.  Plus, one in six children has a developmental disability.  Learn how the the Anchor of Hope Foundation helps local families coping all the therapies, specialists and medicines that come with diagnosis.  

In this week’s episode, learn about some of the specialized programs you’ll find at Mary Persons, like Bass Fishing and JROTC.

Plus,  we’re starting a new series that highlights some of our community business partners.  We'll kick things off with a husband and wife team who know how to serve up a good slice.

In this week's episode, our award-winning Mary Persons Competition Cheerleaders have their eyes on the top prize, back-to-back state championships.   Find out what it takes to be the number one squad in Georgia?  

Plus, ‘tis the season for giving. Our holiday assistance programs need your help. Learn how you can help make the holidays a little brighter for some of our students in need. 

In this week’s episode, get the ins and outs of the Mary Persons High School Band Program.  Hear what happens both on the field and in the classroom.

And, what's the difference between a school visitor and a volunteer?  Learn when you need the volunteer training and badge, and when you don’t.

In this week’s episode, we take an in-depth look at the Monroe County Achievement Center.  Hear from Principal Grady Caldwell about his goals for the students, plus we sit down with a teacher and student about life at MCAC.

Also, the Mary Persons Band recently held a Halloween-themed concert at the Fine Arts Center.  The music was fantastic, but how do you choose what to have the students play for the crowd? Band Director Miles Benson answers that question for us.