WCSM begins Back to School Week at St. Marys City Schools

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ST. MARYS — WCSM Radio opened its Back to School Week at St. Marys City Schools on Monday by highlighting the district’s academic progress, student organizations, college-preparation programs and athletics.

Superintendent Bill Ruane began the program with an update on the district and its latest state report card. St. Marys improved its overall rating from three stars to three-and-a-half stars. The district earned five stars in gap closing and college, career, workforce and military readiness.

Ruane said St. Marys posted the highest readiness score among Western Buckeye League schools and the district’s 20 most comparable school systems. He credited programs including College Credit Plus, DECA, Tri Star, honors courses and workforce initiatives with helping prepare students for life after graduation.

Ruane also reviewed upcoming activities in athletics and the arts, including tournament competition, student-directed one-act plays and recent band and choir performances.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes members Ella Schlarman and Piper Reams discussed how the organization helps students balance their faith, athletics and other responsibilities. FCA is the high school’s largest student organization and also holds events involving students from other schools.

DECA students highlighted several projects designed to build leadership and practical business skills. Olivia discussed Mission Discovery, which introduces area students to local career opportunities. Eben explained how students reworked the school stores and introduced new products after changes limited the sale of food and energy drinks. Chloe discussed the Kindness Spark, a community-awareness project promoting the effect that positive words and actions can have on others.

The students also described how DECA competitions, presentations and leadership positions help them develop communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

School counselors Lucy Bambauer and Sara Paulus discussed College Application Week and the district’s College Credit Plus program. St. Marys offers numerous college-level courses on campus, allowing students to complete general education requirements before graduating from high school.

The counselors said they also help students manage stress, meet graduation requirements, explore careers and navigate college applications, financial aid and important deadlines. Seniors are encouraged to visit prospective campuses before making a final decision.

Athletic Director Jim Hollman closed Monday’s program with an update on tournament schedules and the work required to coordinate school athletics. Hollman also discussed the continuing need for officials, support from booster organizations and the value of students participating in multiple sports.

WCSM’s Back to School Week continues Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Guests are scheduled to include Student Council members and Mrs. Lunz, MHS Thespians Allie Phlipot, Helena Bills and Gavin Luebke, Sara D. with Gatekeepers, new school resource officer Cole Koenig and Memorial High School Principal Jason Johnson.