Guess who’s back in the building? McLean County Middle School kicked off the new academic year with energy and excitement! Hear from Principal Kelly Foster on how they’re building a vibrant community, embracing innovative learning, and making every student feel right at home. What exciting changes are happening in your local schools this year?
The new academic year commenced with palpable excitement across McLean County Public Schools, particularly at McLean County Middle School, where students were warmly welcomed back for their first day. The air was filled with enthusiasm as buses unloaded eager learners, marking the beginning of another period of growth and discovery for the local student body.
Leading the charge, Principal Kelly Foster, a seasoned educator with 27 years of experience, expressed her enduring excitement for each new school year. Despite having the option to retire, Foster revealed her deep passion for her profession, choosing to remain at the helm, driven by the joy and fulfillment she derives from her work within the school community.
Foster, now embarking on her sixth year as principal, emphasized the extensive preparation undertaken by her staff throughout the summer to ensure a smooth and enriching return for students. She highlighted how the vibrant energy and passion exhibited by the teachers naturally resonate with the children, fostering a positive and dynamic learning environment within the school.
A key initiative under Foster’s leadership has been the implementation of a unique “house system,” designed to bridge the traditional grade-level divides often found in middle schools. This innovative approach encourages students from all grades to collaborate and interact, moving away from isolated “silos” and fostering a more integrated and cohesive student body.
The house system aims to instill a sense of excitement and belonging among students, providing them with a team-like structure beyond traditional sports. Foster explained that middle schoolers still crave engagement and fun, and this system energizes classroom learning by making it more interactive and helping students feel connected within the broader school community.
Further enhancing social and emotional development, the school has introduced “Mentoring Monday.” During these sessions, small groups of students, comprising various grade levels, spend dedicated time with a teacher. These meetings are intentionally non-academic, focusing instead on building strong relationships and providing crucial social-emotional learning support, which Foster believes was a vital missing component.
Complementing the educational initiatives, the middle school also saw significant infrastructural improvements over the summer, including a complete HVAC replacement, ensuring a comfortable and conducive learning atmosphere. Principal Foster extended heartfelt appreciation to her dedicated staff, acknowledging their tireless behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute immensely to the school’s success.
The overall sentiment on the first day was overwhelmingly positive, characterized by the joyous sounds and beaming smiles that filled the hallways. With music playing and teachers instilling a sense of fun alongside academics, McLean County Middle School is poised for a successful and engaging academic year, striking a healthy balance between rigorous learning and enjoyable school experiences.
