About Marathon Central School District
The Marathon Central School District is composed of the Village of Marathon, the Town of Marathon, and the surrounding townships. It is situated approximately 30 miles north of Binghamton and fifteen miles south of Cortland on Interstate Route 81. The community is primarily rural, encompassing some 102 square miles. The District has seem a steady decrease in student population since 1999 when there were approximately 1,100 students district wide to a student population of less than 800 in 2010 . Approximately a quarter of the students live in the village itself and the rest live up to 15 miles from school. A dedicated staff of professionals and para-professionals supports these students.
In Marathon, a stable long-term population has fostered a strong sense of community that supports programs such as the local library, local churches, and community service organizations. The community spirit has promoted a sense of commitment to the school district, which serves as a community center and a source of pride for all, including senior citizens and rural residents. There is a shared sense of the significance of local history, the importance of families, and the involvement of people of all ages in the community and the schools.
There are also many examples of community support for the schools. These include the Parent Teacher Organization, the Booster Club, a family resource center, and a Volunteer Parent program. An active Alumni Association is the oldest in the State. There are a number of service organizations within the schools. A high percentage of District staff resides in the community, and many have children who are District students or graduates. The community, conservative by nature, has always been progressive when it comes to the education of its children. The elementary school has been a Reading First School and is highly regarded for it’s technology and innovative programs. The Jr.-Sr. High School provides accelerated programs, college credit, and distance learning opportunities. A state approved Business & Computer Technology Sequence began in September 2002. In both buildings a flexible compensatory/special education plan allows teachers to both push in to regular classes and pull students out for more intensive experiences. The use of consultant teachers in the four core areas in both buildings provides for more coordination of curriculum and services K-12. The district supports a strong professional/staff development program.
A well-developed Technology Plan guides the implementation of technology use in the classrooms. Statistics indicate that Marathon graduates achieve high rates of success in both future employment and in continuing their education. Ninety-two (92%) percent of the 2010 graduating seniors went on to post-secondary schools. The graduation rate is close to 85%. Of those non-completers, the majority receive a certification from an approved GED program and seek employment locally. The district recognizes the need to provide access to the global community for staff and students. The enhancement of our distance learning capabilities with video conferencing equipment and the opportunity to participate in online web classes provides our students with additional academic opportunities. Additionally, the district has an articulation agreement with a local community college that allows seniors to take classes on campus and receive dual credit both high school and college.
Additional district information can be found at the
New York State Department of Education.
