Mary Schaeffer (Photo Provided)

MARIETTA — Marietta City Schools Superintendent Mary Schaeffer will be hosting a monthly initiative, titled Coffee & Conversation, which invites parents, staff, students, and community members for an opportunity to connect.

The first meeting is scheduled from 9-10:30 a.m. Sept. 30 at Jeremiah’s Coffee House. Information for future meetings will be posted on the district’s social media and website.

Schaeffer, who is the new superintendent at the district, launched the initiative to build stronger connections between the school and the community.

“I believe in listening and learning from those we serve and these monthly gatherings will be an opportunity to hear directly from the community and collaborate to make MCSD the best it can be,” she said in a press release from the school.

Schaeffer said this collaboration is essential for building a foundation of trust between the district and the community.

The district’s Communications Coordinator Christian Hudspeth said Schaeffer wants to familiarize herself with the community and support local businesses.

“She wants to give the community an opportunity to have casual and open dialogue with the school staff,” said Hudspeth. “Everyone has a voice and she wants to make sure people have the chance to have their voice heard.”

Coffee & Conversation will be held from 9-10:30 a.m. on the last Tuesday of every month.

The monthly meetings will alternate between Jermiah’s Coffee House and Stoked Coffee in Marietta.

Amber Phipps can be reached at aphipps@newsandsentinel.com.