ALL Mars Area School District buildings will be CLOSED in the morning on Thursday, Aug. 23, so that all District staff members may attend the District's 2018-2019 School Year Kick Off & Keynote Address.

As part of the event, the District will welcome its keynote speaker, Darrell Scott, founder of the “Rachel’s Challenge” positive school culture/anti-bullying program, which will be implemented throughout the District during the 2018-2019 School Year. The program is based on the life and writings of Darrell Scott's daughter, Rachel Joy Scott, who was the first victim of the Columbine school shooting. The "Rachel's Challenge" program works to equip and inspire individuals to replace acts of violence, bullying, and negativity with acts of respect, kindness, and compassion and, in turn, to promote a safer, more connected school community.

All District buildings will reopen at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 23. Thank you for your cooperation.