• Provided funding for an Elementary Coach at MCES and MCIS.  
• Provided funding for a Math Coach at KMS and MCSHS.
• Provided funding for an English/Language Coach at KMS and MCIS.
  (We have reduced Central Office staff by two staff members and placed them in schools with the teachers and students)
• Instructional Technology:  Provided funding for HOVERCAMS for grades Kindergarten through 8th grade.  HOVERCAMS are the latest instructional interactive technology on the market.  Teachers and students use these boards for enhanced learning.
• Hired a full time Pre-School Director and provided transportation for all eligible pre-school students.  Pre-School enrollment increased 25% last year.  This means that we are able to reach more students sooner and have them prepared to enter Kindergarten.
• Fully funded Extended School Services (after school tutoring) and providing transportation home from ESS.  This allows all students to be able to stay after school to receive extra time and services.
• Hired a Drop Out Preventionist.  This staff member works with students who are at risk to drop out.
• Purchased Renaissance Learning.  This program allows us to monitor each student’s academic progress throughout the school year. 
• Purchased the Illuminate Program for staff members.   Illuminate is a comprehensive management data system and a one-stop shop for teachers.  It allows teachers to develop assessments, analyze data, and report results.
• Increased academic technology in every school.  We are working toward the goal of being 1 device for every 1 student.  MCIS is currently at 1 to 1. 
• Recruitment of top quality employees:  We have made a commitment to recruit the best teachers from across the state of Kentucky.
• Created the “Mercer Teacher Internship” program.  This program is designed to provide first year teachers support from an experienced teacher.
• Career Academy:  Through partnerships with surrounding districts, Bluegrass Community Technical College, and Harrodsburg Area Technology Center, we have developed and implemented the Trailblazer Academy.  See link for more information. https://www.trailblazeracademyky.com/
• Increase Dual Credit opportunities for students including dual credit options at the Area Technology Center.
  For the first time this year, we have limited access for middle school students to attend the Area Technology Center.
• Provided funding for all sophomores to take the ACT assessment.
• Mercer Central has developed and expanded alternative options available for students who are interested in receiving a high school diploma but want to do so in a non-traditional way using our virtual program. 

As you can see from the above list, the Mercer County Board of Education has invested a great deal of resources (people and programs) to help our students be successful.   We are committed to providing the resources schools and teachers need to provide academic success for all students.  

Proud to be a Titan,

Dennis Davis, Superintendent
Mercer County Schools