Two students stand with man in a tie
Eighth-grader Kris Molnar and art teacher Rhonda Doup display one of Molnar’s pieces that will be on display during the Academic Showcase March 14 at Mount Vernon Middle School. Joining them is Principal Darin Prince. Credit: Larry Gibbs

MOUNT VERNON – Family games, including cornhole and table tennis, will be featured during Mount Vernon Middle School’s Academic Showcase March 14, 5-7 p.m. They will replace plans for a family-friendly obstacle course.

The games will complement an evening of activities that focus on academic successes.

Eighth-grader Chase Valentine is not shy about saying that he excels in science.

“Science is full of engaging activities and experiments that I enjoy which is why science is so much fun and why I excel in it,” he said. “One experiment we did that was fun and engaging was the mini generator project. It was fun to create the generator and see how the energy could be transferred.”

Students will share their achievements throughout the building.

“Our theme will be a celebration of learning,” said Principal Darin Prince. “We want to celebrate the great things our students and staff have accomplished this year in all academic areas..

“Each student will have an opportunity to individually share their academic work with parents, grandparents, other family members and friends.”

Classrooms will be open. A robotics demonstration is planned and band and orchestra ensembles will perform.

Several of the school’s community partners will have informational displays, including Knox Public Health, MTVarts, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the Salvation Army.

The Knox Substance Abuse Action Team (KSAAT) will feature “Hidden in plain sight,” an interactive exhibit resembling a teen’s bedroom “with more than 100 items that could indicate dangerous or risky behavior.” Described by KSAAT as an awareness program for parents and other adults, “the presentation will cover substance abuse, suicide, unhealthy relationships and more.”

Food trucks will be on site for those wishing to purchase food or beverages.

The Knox Educational Service Center (ESC) partners with Mount Vernon City Schools and other county school districts to develop, implement and operate cooperative, shared educational services.