From left, mural artist Chelsea Monaghan, Marquette Area Public Schools board member Jennifer Klipp, MAPS Board of Education President Kristen Cambensy and board member Jennifer Ray. (Photo courtesy of Marquette Area Public Schools via Courtney Larson)

MARQUETTE — The same day the Marquette Area Public Schools Board of Education approved a raise for substitute teachers, local artist Chelsea Monaghan unveiled a new mural of the school’s logo.

Monaghan’s mural celebrates school spirit, showcasing the Sentinels logo designed by Marquette Senior High School alumnus Matt Sia. It also features pictograms of iconic Marquette landmarks.

In a statement, MAPS officials said, “We are thrilled for both students and the community to enjoy this wonderful addition to MSHS.”

At the meeting itself following the mural reveal, board members discussed employee compensation.

Before the unanimous motion to increase rates for substitutes, teachers in these positions were paid $110 per day; they will now be paid $120 per day.

This change comes after a $5 per hour increase for hourly staff such as bus drivers, kitchen staff, custodians and others.

“I appreciate the board’s support in addressing that longstanding concern with our hourly employees and having a livable wage,” said MAPS Superintendent Zack Sedgwick.

MSHS Principal Brandon Wheeler gave an update on the start of the new school year after being invited to speak by Sedgwick.

“Two weeks ago, hard to believe we’re on our third week of school, we welcomed back just under 1,000 students to our campus and I’m pleased to report that our school community continues to grow,” Wheeler said. “Along with our returning staff, we have several new hires who’ve already made a positive impact in the realm of athletics.”

Replacing Alex Tiseo, the new MSHS athletic director is Jackson Ingalls.

“The transition has been largely smooth and the energy and engagement with our athletic programs have been palpable,” Wheeler said. “We look forward to a successful season under his leadership on the facilities front.”

In terms of other facilities, he announced the successful renovation of one of the labs in the science wing. The others are scheduled to be completed later this year, he said.

For programming, Wheeler introduced a new initiative for teachers described as “teacher-peer observations” or “student-centered learning labs” that will allow staff to learn more from one another, share best practices and ultimately enhance the quality of education provided to students.

Student representatives also reported on the recent happenings in the high school, particularly the homecoming week.

“It’s really one of my favorite things about being on a school board is being able to keep in touch with the kids to the degree that we can,” MAPS board trustee Jennifer Klipp said about the representatives’ report.

Alexandria Bournonville can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 506. Her email address is abournonville@miningjournal.net.