The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District has started integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools into its educational framework, following the approval of the MSTM Artificial Intelligence Guidebook by the MSTM Board on June 9, 2025.

This strategic implementation supports the district's mission to Inspire. Challenge. Grow. by preparing students with crucial future workplace skills and enhancing the overall learning experience through responsible technology use.

1. Educational Use: Focused on Literacy and Efficiency

The district's approach to AI is governed by the core principle of Responsible Use. AI is viewed as a supportive tool to be used under human oversight, not a replacement for critical thinking or teaching staff.

For Students: Building AI Literacy through Personalized Learning

Student use of AI is strictly controlled and occurs under the direct guidance of a teacher. The primary goal is to foster AI literacy—the essential skill of using these tools responsibly and critically, including content verification.

• Approved Tool: MagicSchool AI
• Application: Teachers leverage this tool to provide personalized feedback on student writing, generate custom study guides, and differentiate lesson materials to better meet individual student needs and learning paces.

For Staff: Increasing Instructional Time through Efficiency

Teachers are using AI to streamline administrative and planning tasks, thereby freeing up more valuable time for direct student engagement and instruction.

• Approved Tools: Gemini for Education and MagicSchool AI
• Application: These tools are used for the efficient drafting of lesson plans, creation of differentiated instructional materials, and quick summarization of documents.
• Training: To ensure effective and compliant usage, Teachers and Staff have been receiving training on AI usage during Professional Development Days, a practice that will continue throughout the school year.

2. Safety, Privacy, and Oversight

The MSTM AI framework is anchored by firm commitments to Data Privacy and ongoing human oversight.

• Board Approval: The Guidebook's approval establishes a unified, secure, and transparent policy for all AI usage across the district.
• Vetted Platforms: MSTM exclusively uses vetted, education-focused platforms that adhere to strict data privacy and security standards.
• Monitoring and Review: Strict monitoring processes are in place to track usage and ensure a safe, appropriate online environment and adherence to academic integrity policies.
• AI Support Team: A dedicated team of administrators provide continuous oversight, reviews usage reports, and ensures compliance with the established policies.

The complete MSTM Artificial Intelligence Guidebook is available on the district website for all community members to review.

Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District is excited to announce the successful launch of the first product sale by students participating in the School-Based Enterprise (SBE), a key component of our Work-Based Learning experiences.

On Friday, October 17, students in the Amped on Algebra class (taught by Mr. Skinner) and the Marketing/Sales class (taught by Mr. Fisher) held their sticker sale. This sale is the culmination of cross-curricular learning that brings textbook concepts to life.

The School-Based Enterprise is a dynamic, hands-on opportunity for our high schoolers to not only learn core academics but also to develop practical business skills.

Amped on Algebra This year-long elective, mandatory for SBE participation, integrates the entire Algebra 1 curriculum with Manufacturing Processes, Entrepreneurship, and Design. Students aren't just solving equations from a book; they're using real-world product information (like cost of materials and pricing) from their business to inform their algebraic equations. Marketing/Sales Taught concurrently, this semester-long elective provides the business framework for the SBE. Students learn about the role of marketing in the economy, how it affects a company's products, prices, promotions, and distribution. For this project, students put theory into practice by:

• Producing a product (the stickers)
• Creating a package
• Determining a profitable price
• Promoting the product
• Selling it to the student body

Work-Based Learning in Action This School-Based Enterprise is a prime example of the district’s commitment to providing valuable Work-Based Learning experiences. Work-Based Learning allows students to apply academic knowledge and technical skills learned in the classroom to real-world business challenges. We are proud of the initiative and collaboration shown by Mr. Skinner's and Mr. Fisher's students and look forward to seeing the future growth of our School-Based Enterprise!

Fall is a busy time for PTO with lots of activities and events going on. PTO is looking for volunteers for many upcoming events from being behind the scenes to helping during events or planning. There is a way for everyone to get involved. Currently seeking volunteers for the following:

Conference Meals: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4DAFAF2FAAFBC43-59543211-conference#/ Trunk or Treat: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4BACA62AABFAC16-59462535-trunk PTO meeting childcare: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4DAFAF2FAAFBC43-59082150-ptomeeting#/ Teacher's Helper: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4DAFAF2FAAFBC43-59043731-teachers#/ Field trip and clothing fundraisers coming soon!

The Martensdale-St. Marys community is invited to attend a special Open House event to tour the recently updated Science Rooms and the revamped Media Center.

This is an excellent opportunity for families and community members to see firsthand the modern learning environments now available to our students.

The Open House is scheduled for Wednesday, November 6th, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Program and Partners in Education Announcement

The evening will begin promptly at 5:00 PM in the Media Center with a brief program and remarks.

During this time, our dedicated Partners in Education group will share an exciting announcement regarding their next project. The Partners in Education play a crucial role in supporting essential initiatives across the district, and we encourage everyone to attend to hear about their future plans.

Attendees will then be welcome to tour the upgraded Science Rooms, which feature enhanced facilities for hands-on learning and experimentation, as well as the Media Center, which now serves as a dynamic hub for research, collaboration, and reading.

We look forward to sharing these improved spaces with our community and celebrating the ongoing commitment to student success.

The MSTM Parents and Teachers Organization (PTO) is gearing up for one of its most popular annual events: the Trunk or Treat! District families and the wider community are invited to join the fun on Saturday, November 1st, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Blue Devil Stadium.

This safe, family-friendly alternative to traditional trick-or-treating offers a festive atmosphere where students, parents, and teachers can connect. Attendees can expect a wide array of activities designed for all ages, including:

• Trunk-or-Treating: A designated area where participants can collect candy from creatively decorated car trunks.
• Carnival Games: Fun and exciting games for kids and families.
• Concession Stand: Snacks and refreshments will be available.
• Pet Costume Contest: Even furry family members are encouraged to join the fun dressed in their Halloween best!

A Focus on Friendly Competition and Fundraising This year’s event features a special element of internal competition aimed at benefiting MSTM programs. The PTO is encouraging different MSTM programs and student groups to decorate a trunk for the event. Attendees will have the chance to vote for their favorite decorated trunk.

The MSTM program that wins the most votes will receive the proceeds from the entire event to support their activities, supplies, or field trips. This popular feature not only drives creativity but also provides a meaningful way for the community to directly fund student opportunities.

District families are reminded to dress in their best costumes and come ready to have a great time!

Event Summary: What: MSTM PTO Trunk or Treat When: Saturday, November 1, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Where: MSTM Blue Devil Stadium Activities: Candy, Pet Costume Contest, Concession Stand, Carnival Games

Don't forget to vote for your favorite decorated trunk!

We look forward to a memorable afternoon celebrating our school spirit!

The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District (MSTM) recognizes that the first step to a successful school day is a nutritious breakfast. The School Breakfast Program (SBP) is not just a meal; it is an essential resource that directly contributes to student focus and academic achievement.

Studies consistently show that students who eat breakfast do better in school. When kids and teens are not hungry, they can concentrate on their schoolwork better. By utilizing the SBP, families ensure their students are mentally ready and alert from the moment the bell rings.

The MSTM School Breakfast is designed to meet high nutritional standards, aligning with the MyPlate model to deliver sustained energy and essential nutrients:

• Grains: Starting the day with whole grains gives students B vitamins, minerals, and fiber to feel fuller longer, helping them maintain focus throughout the morning.
• Fruits: A full cup of fruit is available every day , providing key nutrients like potassium, dietary fiber, and Vitamin C.
• Dairy: Milk provides calcium, protein, and Vitamin D necessary for strong bones, teeth, and muscles.
• Protein Foods: These menu items (such as eggs, yogurt, meat, or beans) supply vital nutrients including iron, B vitamins, zinc, and magnesium.

Research shows that people who eat breakfast generally have higher intakes of essential nutrients like dietary fiber, B vitamins, calcium, and iron.

Convenience for Busy Families ⏰ Beyond the health benefits, MSTM's School Breakfast simplifies the morning routine. School breakfast can save time by offering kids and teens healthy options that easily fit into their daily schedule.

Ensure your Blue Devil is fueled for a day of achievement—utilize the Martensdale-St. Marys School Breakfast Program!

We are excited to announce that our first teachers helper will be October 17th! We can't wait to get back in the lounge and help teachers with making copies, cutting and organizing activities for the students.

Everyone is welcome to sign up and volunteer. Parents, grandparents, community members, parents/family of middle or high school students. Remember to bring your ID when checking into central office.

Click the link below to sign up. November and December dates are also listed. If you would like to help with the program but the dates don't work for you, please email mstmpto@gmail.com.

\ https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4DAFAF2FAAFBC43-59043731-teachers

The School Board Election for the Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District will be held on November 4, 2025.

Three director districts will be contested in 2025. Districts #1, #2, and #4 are up for election; a map of the Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District with districts may be found here:  MSTM District Map.

List of Candidates The following is the slate of candidates on the ballot:

District 1: Bill Denny Erik Somers

District 2: Travis Tibbits

District 4: Matt Yonker

Election Day Information Election Day is November 4, 2025. Polls will be open from 7:00am – 8:00pm.

Learn more about election day polling information by visiting the Warren County Election Information page.

Polling locations are: INDIANOLA 5 / LINCOLN 1 Indianola Activity Center (15) - 515-961-9420 2204 W. 2nd Ave., Indianola

JACKSON

Immaculate Conception Parish Hall (19) - 641-297-2359

101 St. James Street, St. Marys

JEFFERSON St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (20) - 641-764-2752 615 Iowa Ave, Martensdale

NORWALK 4 / LINN 720 St. John’s Catholic Church (29) - 515-981-4855 Orchard Hill Dr., Norwalk

WHITE OAK Annett Nature Center (40) - 515-961-6169 15565 118th Ave., Indianola

Absentee Voting

In person Absentee will be Wednesday, October 15, 2025 – Monday, November 3, 2025 8:00am-4:30pm at the Warren County Administration Building (301 N Buxton St. Indianola, IA 50125).

Learn more about Absentee Voting in Iowa here:  Iowa Secretary of State Website.