MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Marion City Schools is entering the 2025–2026 school year with renewed focus, measurable progress, and a deepened commitment to achievement, belief, and connection. During the district’s annual State of Our Schools presentation, Superintendent Brian Murphy highlighted significant academic gains, operational improvements, and continued investments in student and staff well-being that are driving momentum across the district.

“We’ve built a strong foundation for our schools, our students, and our community,” said Superintendent Murphy. “Now we’re moving forward with purpose — to achieve, believe, and connect in ways that lift every student and family in Marion.”

Academic Achievement and Growth

Marion City Schools recorded notable improvements on the Ohio State Report Card, reflecting ongoing progress across the district:

  • Overall Rating: 2.5 → 3 stars
  • Progress: 2 → 3 stars
  • Gap Closing: 2 → 3 stars
  • Early Literacy: 1 → 2 stars

These gains stem from intentional planning and investment — including $1.9 million dedicated to strengthening K–12 literacy instruction, new curriculum maps for instructional alignment, and the launch of Lincoln Academy to support at-risk students and improve retention.

Whole Student and Staff Wellness

Alongside academic progress, the district has deepened its commitment to supporting the whole child and the staff who serve them. Marion City Schools expanded its Character Strong social-emotional curriculum, increased access to mental health partners, and boosted extracurricular participation by more than 25%, from 1,247 to 2,638 students.

Staff wellness also saw positive gains, with retention improving from 91% to 94%. The district introduced an Employee Assistance Program, increased substitute teacher availability by 60%, and implemented new initiatives to recognize and support staff — from mobile health services to the annual MCS Veterans Breakfast.

Operational Excellence and Financial Stewardship

Operational improvements and fiscal responsibility remain central priorities. Marion City Schools’ right-sizing initiative has saved approximately $3.2 million annually, allowing for reinvestment in classrooms and facilities. Recent projects include:

  • New roofing at Grant Elementary
  • Updated playground equipment at Hayes Elementary
  • Kitchen efficiency upgrades at Harding High School
  • New parking lots and sidewalks at Harding and McKinley

The district also expanded transportation services by training new bus drivers in-house and partnering with local transit providers to improve efficiency and access.

Athletics, Extracurriculars, and Community Connection

Student involvement continues to rise, with the district setting a goal of 2,850 engagement points for the current school year. New athletic and activity opportunities include a middle school swim team, girls flag football, and several new youth clubs such as Nature Club, Disc Golf, and Junk Journaling.

Community connection remains a cornerstone of the district’s work. Through strengthened partnerships, an active social media presence, and recognition of “Legends and Legacy” within the district, Marion City Schools continues to build meaningful relationships with families, alumni, and community members.

Looking Ahead

Building on last year’s “Love Your Schools” campaign, Superintendent Murphy introduced the district’s new guiding theme for the year — “Achieve. Believe. Connect.” — emphasizing that progress is both measurable and deeply personal.

“Together, we’re making meaningful progress,” Murphy said. “It’s rooted in achievement, inspired by belief, and driven by connection. Marion City Schools is proud of where we are — and even more excited about where we’re going.”

As Marion City Schools looks ahead, its focus remains clear: continue building a culture where every student is supported to achieve their goals, every staff member feels valued, and every family is connected to the mission of public education. With strong leadership, community partnerships, and a shared belief in what’s possible, Marion City Schools is proving that progress is not just a plan — it’s a promise to every child in Marion.