By: The Woof Boom Radio News Team—
The Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce held a luncheon event Wednesday at the Horizon Convention Center. Dr. Steve Baule, Superintendent of the Muncie Community Schools gave his “State of the Muncie Community Schools” report to local civic and business leaders.
Dr. Baule gave an overview of the current state of MCS, and also shared many positive stories/statistics about MCS that often go over-looked. Some examples Dr. Baule cited— Advanced Placement is UP. Dual credit participation with Ivy Tech is way UP. (412%) Currently, 41 % of Muncie Central students are also Ivy Tech students, effectively getting college credit. In fact, next year, graduating MCHS students will also receive an Associates Degree when they walk across the stage to receive their HS diploma. Minority employment is UP. Student discipline issues are down 20%. Consequently, juvenile court referrals were down 42% last year.
MCS is actually making money with the new Chartwells food service. MCS is serving 1800 more students a month with the new food service program. Attendees applauded when Dr. Baule mentioned MCS is now serving FREE breakfast for children K-8th grade. Extra-circular activity participation by students is UP through clubs and other school activities. Participation in athletics is UP with 546 student athletes. The athletic program is very strong, with high support from the community.
In addition, graduation rates are UP to 90% after the consolidation of the two high schools. Plus, MCS received a total of $1.1 million in grants last year MCS faculty and staff applied for and received.
He also highlighted some of the challenges the school system still faces.
You can can hear Dr. Baule’s report in its entirety below. His remarks are split between two audio files. These files are playable on your computer or on your phone or tablet device. The presentation is 54 minutes.
Dr. Baule, Part One.
Dr. Baule, Part Two.
