At an event held at the Statehouse on January 24, Marysville Schools was among a select group of schools to receive recognition for leading the way in education. Only seven schools throughout the entire state were honored by Gov. John Kasich for the Innovation in Education Award, and Marysville Schools was selected because of the district’s comprehensive efforts and leadership in battling drug use among students and the community.

“Our high school students, along with community members, have taken a proactive approach to battling drug abuse,” stated Marysville Schools Superintendent Diane Mankins. “High School student leaders talk with and mentor elementary students to develop foundation assets and form relationships to promote healthy, positive decision making as a way to battle future at risk behaviors.”

Through the program, both Marysville High School and the Early College High School students are engaged in drug prevention activities including Start Talking, Above the Influence, and Mentoring elementary aged students. This grassroots movement encourages parents to talk with their children about drugs and connect elementary students to positive high school role models.

Students Lindsay Fetherolf and Keely Mankins, Business Partner Bruce Daniels, Assistant Principal Shawn Williams along with Superintendent Mankins attended the event.

“Our students are amazing and working hard to make a difference in our community,” added Mankins. “Drug abuse is an epidemic impacting all communities and Marysville is no different. I am so proud of the work of our teachers, administrators, students and residents in doing their part to prevent families from suffering.”