BENTON – Thursday, August 11th, marked another milestone in the Marshall County School System with the opening day of the new South Marshall Middle School, a consolidation of Benton Middle and South Middle with approximately 531 students entering the doors of the new school on Thursday.
A $25 million project that began in March 2015 when Paducah’s A & K Construction was awarded the contract with a tight timeline, was finished just in time for opening day.
According to Principal Shannon Solomon, the first two days of school did not only run smooth, but were a lot of fun for all.
“We could not have expected it to be any better”, Solomon said. “We made sure the students felt welcome and excited about their new school. We actually had no “bumps” while at school. There were a few transportation logistics to work out, but by the second day, those were much better.”
Solomon said about the first day, Judge Dennis Foust introduced the teachers in an exciting way and the afternoon was filled with a fun assembly where teachers and students competed in games and a “Dance Off”.
“The second day was our “House Reveal” for our 7th and 8th graders”, Solomon said. “This “ceremony” was full of cheers, signs, t-shirts and music. It really built camaraderie among our students. I am not sure who had the most fun; teachers or students! It was great to see the students cheer for each other as individual names were called and their house was “revealed”. Our 6th graders “House Reveal” will be in a couple of weeks.”
South Marshall Middle has adapted a Mission Statement that reads: “South Marshall Middle School will be home to us and an example to others when all are engaging in a supportive environment with high expectations; preparing students for success in a 21st century world.”
Photos of opening day courtesy of SMMS.
