This day honors those who act quickly when an emergency is at hand. First responders dedicate their lives to save lives. They are the people who run toward a crisis while the rest of the world flees - often putting their own lives on the line. We can't thank you enough!

Red Ribbon Week: this week-long observance is considered the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation. The campaign focuses on the mission of keeping kids drug-free. Just Say No!

Wear purple tomorrow! Purple Thursday is a day where people wear purple to show their support for survivors of domestic violence. This simple act of wearing purple helps raise awareness and lets survivors know they are not alone.

School Bus Safety Week is a reminder to everyone about the importance of following the law and implementing school bus safety tips. Parents should be able to trust that when their child gets on the school bus, there is no need to worry about their safety. If everyone follows school bus safety rules, every child will stay safe.

Marion County elementary schools presented their Annual Continuous Improvement Plans at the board meeting today. Pictured left to right: Mr. Dustin Silas (Guin Elementary School Principal), Dr. Kim Davis (Brilliant School Principal), Ms. Mary Kennedy (Hackleburg Elementary School Principal), Mrs. Angie Jones (Hamilton Elementary School Assistant Principal), and Mrs. Tina Coan (Phillips Elementary School Principal). We are blessed to have AWESOME leaders!

Happy Boss's Day to our "Nacho Average Boss!" We appreciate all that Dr. Sutton does for Marion County Schools!


The ESL Team—Ana Colburn, Charlotte Howell, Reba Hill, and Vickie Johnson—joined Hamilton Elementary Principal Mr. Gary McCarley for an in-depth professional development session on the ELLevation platform. This training focused on using ELLevation’s powerful tools to track student growth, strengthen collaboration, and enhance instruction for multilingual learners.
Their participation reflects Marion County Schools’ ongoing commitment to excellence in providing the highest quality education for every student.
Their participation reflects Marion County Schools’ ongoing commitment to excellence in providing the highest quality education for every student.

Dr. Patrick Sutton, Superintendent of Marion County Schools, was given the opportunity to deliver a short devotion and invocation at the School Superintendent of Alabama's Fall Conference yesterday.

Statement from the Superintendent:
It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of one of our beloved teachers, Lesley McCollum. She was a valued member of our school community whose dedication, compassion, and commitment to students left a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Our hearts go out to Lesley’s family, friends, colleagues, and students during this incredibly difficult time. We recognize that this loss affects many in our community, and we are committed to providing support and resources for those in need.
Counselors will be available at Hackleburg Elementary in the coming days to support students and staff. We encourage anyone who needs to talk or seek help to reach out.
We will continue to honor Lesley’s legacy in the days ahead. Please join us in keeping her loved ones in your thoughts.
— Patrick Sutton

Tips for Parent Teacher Conferences

National School Lunch Week shows appreciation for the ways that schools have been providing this mid-day meal, and also works to spread the word so that more students will participate and benefit from it!

All Marion County Schools will be closed (for students) Monday, October 13 for Professional Development and Student Data Parent Night.

With deepest sympathy...

A huge thank you to our friends at Hamilton Walmart for their generous donation of Crayola Crayons to our Marion County students!



Follow this link for a list of colleges and universities who have officially waived their application fees to allow Alabama seniors to submit applications to their institutions at no cost:
https://files.constantcontact.com/ecd88bf2801/ebfb28a2-e5f3-42f8-b534-bed3c323c4f6.pdf
https://files.constantcontact.com/ecd88bf2801/ebfb28a2-e5f3-42f8-b534-bed3c323c4f6.pdf

Remember, shopping local helps not only our small businesses, but also our schools and communities as well! Shop Local!

Happy National Custodial Workers Recognition Day to all of our hardworking School Custodians! We appreciate you all!

National Principals Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the important role that principals play in the education system. Let's honor their dedication and hard work and show appreciation for their contributions to the success of students, schools, and communities!

October 13 has been set aside for Student Data/Parent Night. Watch for more information from your school coming soon!

Way to go, Hackleburg Elementary! Congratulations!



