Superintendent’s Update
On August 20, we watched the Class of 2026 walk into Mariemont High School for its last first day of high school. In 2013, those same students stepped into our kindergarten classrooms wide-eyed, eager, and unknowingly at the very beginning of something much bigger. That year, we began brainstorming for Destination 2026, a bold, 12-year strategic plan to shape the future of Mariemont City Schools.
This class has lived that vision every step of the way. They’ve embraced each evolution of the Distinctly Mariemont experience that now defines who we are. Alongside them, our district has achieved unprecedented success, consistently earning 5 out of 5 stars from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Additionally, we have ranked #1 in Hamilton County and among the top districts in Ohio on nearly every measure from early literacy to overall academic achievement and have earned multiple National Blue Ribbon Awards in the last eight years.
These outcomes are no accident. They are the result of consistency. Consistency in the dedication of our staff, the steadfast support of our community, and the visionary leadership of our Board of Education. Together, we’ve stayed true to the course we charted when these seniors were just beginning their school journey.
Our goal was simple – prepare the students of Mariemont City Schools for their futures when everything about the future was ever-changing. We envisioned what education could look like in 2026, and then built programming and experiences that brought our vision to life. On the right side of this page you can get a glimpse of some of what we built because of Destination 2026 . These programs that are now the foundation of our student experience were once big dreams and out-of-the-box thinking. While our work is never finished, I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am excited to acknowledge and celebrate that work throughout this year.
This spring, we will celebrate the final State of the Schools program in the Destination 2026 plan, a moment to reflect, celebrate, and envision what’s next. For now, I’m simply grateful to be part of the full arc of this journey from kindergarten inspiration to senior accomplishment and to know the best is yet to come.
The Impact of Destination 2026
Steven Estepp, Superintendent Mariemont City Schools
Many of the programs and practices that now feel like an everyday part of life in Mariemont City Schools were once just ideas in our Destination 2026 strategic plan. Experiential learning opportunities, expanded mental health supports, digital citizenship programming and stronger community partnerships all grew out of the intentional goals set in that vision. Over the years, these initiatives have shaped how our students learn, connect and thrive, becoming cornerstones of the Mariemont City Schools experience. Examples of the Destination 2026 impact include:
Warriors BEyond –our award-winning K-12 experiential learning program, designed to expand learning beyond the traditional classroom through hands-on, interest-based experiences that spark curiosity and exploration.
Warriors BEwell –our comprehensive program that prioritizes student mental and physical health through research-based services, prevention and advocacy efforts and strong community partnerships.
Warriors BEglobal –our initiative to build global competency and cultural understanding among students, staff, families and the community, preparing all to learn, connect and lead in an interconnected world.
Growing Up Digital – our digital citizenship initiative empowering students to use technology responsibly, safely and ethically while building the skills to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world.
Warrior Club – our membership program for parents of graduated students to keep you connected with our schools.
Treasurer’s Update
As we begin a new school year, I’m pleased to report that Mariemont City Schools is entering the 2025–26 fiscal year on stable financial footing even amid the turbulence of the recent Ohio state budget cycle.
The state budget was signed into law this summer with a historic number of vetoes. This has set the stage for continued conversations in the legislature and the governor’s office, particularly around property tax reform.
These discussions could influence how we approach long-range fiscal planning, with implications for both state and local revenue. Because our district relies heavily on local voter-approved property taxes, we are monitoring the legislative process closely, as any reforms could have a direct effect on our financial outlook.
Scan the QR Code for the latest state funding overview.
We will continue to stay well-informed and ready to adapt. To ensure our community can follow along, we’ve also created a running log of school funding developments at the state level on our website, offering you direct access to the latest information and its impacts on Mariemont City Schools.
While the policy landscape may shift, our commitments do not. We remain focused on keeping our schools safe and secure for every student and staff member, and on delivering high-quality education in an efficient and effective manner.
You can expect timely, transparent updates from us throughout the year on both district finances and the broader state funding picture. Together, we will continue to safeguard the resources that make the Distinctly Mariemont experience possible for all of our students.
Tom Golinar, Treasurer & CFO
Mariemont City Schools
Child Find Policy
Mariemont City Schools’ Child Find policy requires that all children below twenty-two (22) years of age residing within the district who have a disability, regardless of the severity of their disability, and who are in need of special education and related services are identified, located and evaluated in accordance with all federal and state standards.
For children birth through age two, a disability means that a child has a behavior, cognition, communication, physical development, sensory development and/or social or emotional development deficit. For children ages three through five years of age, a disability means that a child has a documented deficit in one or more of the following areas: communication skills, hearing abilities, motor function, social-emotional behavior functioning or vision abilities. For school-aged students, a disability means a person having one or more conditions such as autism, developmental handicap, hearing handicap, multi-handicap, orthopedic and/or other handicap, emotional/behavioral handicap, specific learning disability, traumatic brain injury or visual handicap.
If you are aware of a child who you think may have a disability, please contact Linda Lee, Special Education Coordinator, at 513-272-7517.
This school year, Mariemont City Schools is embracing a special theme: The Journey. The name reflects the conclusion of our Destination 2026 strategic plan, a 12-year vision that has shaped our schools into the excellent learning community we enjoy today. From award-winning experiential learning programs and expanded mental health supports to digital citizenship initiatives and community partnerships, the accomplishments born from this intentional planning have touched every corner of our district. Over the course of the year, we’ll be celebrating the people, programs and milestones that have brought the Destination 2026 vision to life.
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We also will be recognizing the Class of 2026 – the impetus of Destination 2026. These students, who were just starting kindergarten when the district began preparing for its new strategic plan, are now living the vision we created over the last 12 years. They now find themselves ready to step into the real world with the skills, knowledge and character the plan aimed to create. Their journey mirrors that of our own district: a story of growth, innovation and community.
We asked some of their families to reflect on their own journeys from kindergarten to senior year.
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Riley McKinney
“Watching Riley’s journey from the short, squishy, blonde hair, blue eyed little girl with knotty hair and mismatched shoes, into a 5’7” force of nature has been my greatest honor and there is no doubt in my mind that Riley will change the world one day.”
Finn Marquez
“Throughout his time in Mariemont City Schools, Finn has shown remarkable growth academically as well as emotionally. He has developed into a confident young man who has come out of his shell and found his voice. Programs like DECA, the soccer program, class presentations, and creative video projects are just some of the examples of his successes. His communication skills and self-assurance are a testament to not only his hard work, but the dedication of Mariemont’s faculty, staff, and community.”
Sophie Parker
“Sof’s journey at Mariemont City Schools has been filled with lasting friendships, sweet memories, and the best educators a parent could wish for. We’ll never forget Sof being greeted by Mrs. Merten’s warm smile and huge hug the first day of kindergarten at Terrace Park Elementary. And now, in a blink of an eye, she drove into the parking lot of the high school as a confident senior, excited about the year ahead. We have no doubt that Mariemont has prepared her for college and are so grateful for this community of educators, coaches, and parents who have supported her journey every step of the way. Thank you Warrior family!”
Emma Dorsten
“It seems fitting that Emma would be the one to live out Destination 2026 and have her 12 years documented at Terrace Park and Mariemont City Schools! We are amazed that our youngest is graduating this year! We could not be more proud of the wonderful, funny, intelligent young lady she has become and this is only the beginning for her!”
MCSD Academic Excellence Continues
October is Academic Excellence Month for Mariemont City Schools and we have a lot to celebrate! Check out just a few of the district’s outstanding honors here and look for more of our accomplishments on social media all October long.
5|5 STARS
The Mariemont City School District, and all four school buildings, received 5 out of 5 stars once again*
Mariemont City Schools ranked #1 in the region for Overall Academic Achievement*
Mariemont City Schools ranked #1 Overall Best School District in Ohio two years in a row^
Mariemont City Schools ranked #1 Best Teachers in America three years in a row^
*Based on the state assessment results, reported by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (September 2025). The region includes all districts in Hamilton, Butler, Clermont and Warren counties. ^source: 2026 Best School Districts – Niche.com
Homecoming Highlights
Mariemont High School celebrated its homecoming on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. The students and staff celebrated spirit week with themed days and created award-winning ‘Cartoon’ parade floats. The entire community gathered to watch the parade and show their spirit before the Friday Night football game at Kusel Stadium and annual Homecoming Dance on Saturday. Check out some of the snaps from the week!
Preparing our Students for Life After High School
MHS Unveils New Life Readiness Program
Mariemont City Schools is excited to introduce Gradu8 Ready, a new year-long program designed to prepare the senior class for life beyond high school. This initiative provides students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences that focus on the essential skills needed for success in college, careers, and the military.
“Gradu8 Ready is a brand new program for Mariemont City Schools and we are really excited about its potential” said Autumn Richards, Director of College and Career Services. “It is our promise to students to help prepare them for the real world as best we can. We’re educating and giving them skills like professional communication, budgeting, managing their time and taking care of themselves as adults, so that when they graduate from Mariemont High School, they are prepared to be successful.”
Over the course of eight engaging sessions, seniors will explore topics including:
• Mastering professional communication
• Building financial confidence
• Owning time and responsibilities
• Prioritizing mental and physical wellness
• Navigating the digital world responsibly
• Fueling the body with purpose
• Forming meaningful relationships
• Thriving in the real world
Sessions will combine hands-on activities and guest speakers to keep the learning engaging. Gradu8 Ready is designed not just as a checklist of activities, but as an opportunity for students to reflect, grow, and take charge of their futures.
Ultimately, the program aims to give students confidence, clarity, and actionable strategies as they prepare to step into their futures. By cultivating these skills, Mariemont City Schools is helping students not only succeed academically, but also become well-rounded, resilient, and capable young adults ready to make a positive impact on their communities and beyond.
Inaugural Career Advisory Board Kicks Off School Year
Mariemont City Schools has launched a new initiative designed to strengthen the connection between the classroom and the real world: the Career Advisory Board.
The board is made up of community members—both parents and non-parents— who hold prominent roles across a variety of industries and organizations. This group will meet with district leaders four times this year to provide valuable insight and feedback that will shape Mariemont’s comprehensive career and experiential learning programming.
At the inaugural meeting, eight community leaders came together to learn more about the district’s current efforts and to share their perspectives. Their guidance will help ensure that students are well-prepared not only for the workforce, but also for success in college, military service, and life beyond high school.
The creation of the Career Advisory Board is a direct result of the district’s strategic planning work through Destination 2026 , and it will continue to play an important role as Mariemont City Schools prepares to launch its next strategic plan in 2026.
Once a Warrior, Always a Warrior
Mariemont High School Distinguished Alumni Class of 2025 Announced
The Mariemont School Foundation announced its Distinguished Alumni class of 2025, honoring Dr. Jim Renner (MHS Class of 1980) and Deputy Larry Henderson (MHS Class of 1985).
This award is bestowed upon individuals who have shown extraordinary contributions and/or remarkable accomplishments in their chosen career, skill, civic duties, military service, philanthropy, volunteerism, the arts, sciences, education, in religion, or various other pursuits.
Dr. Renner has devoted more than 25 years to Mariemont City Schools as a graduate, educator, parent and high school principal. Under his leadership, Mariemont High School earned two National Blue Ribbon awards, continuing its tradition of academic and extracurricular excellence. He has left an enduring mark on generations of Mariemont High School students and families.
Deputy Henderson, honored posthumously, dedicated his life to service. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and longtime member of the Hamilton County Sheriff ’s Office, he served his country and community for nearly four decades before his tragic passing in May 2025. His badge was retired and May 17, 2025, was declared “Deputy Sheriff Larry Henderson Day” in Cincinnati.
The district is proud to honor both deserving recipients of the 2025 Mariemont High School Distinguished Alumni Award. Head to the district’s website to see more on their accomplishments and extraordinary careers.
Mariemont High School Inducts Three into the Kusel Hall of Fame
Mariemont High School welcomed three new members into the Doc Kusel Athletics Hall of Fame during halftime of the Warriors’ football game on August 22, 2025.
Cora Dupre (’19) was a five-time state champion swimmer who set an OHSAA D-II Championship record in the 200 freestyle before continuing her career at Indiana University and the University of Alabama.
Marin Valentine (’19) earned a track and field state championship in the 800m, qualified in multiple events at the state level and was a five-time CHL and district champion before competing at Arizona State University.
Coach Graham Harden spent 13 years with the MHS lacrosse programs, helping guide the Warriors to five state titles. A former captain of the University of North Carolina’s 1991 national championship lacrosse team, he was honored posthumously for his impact after a courageous battle with ALS.
Read more about the individual accomplishments of each inductee on the district website.