Nicky King

The 2025-2026 District Improvement Plan for Newcastle Independent School District aims to cultivate lifelong learners who are responsible members of society. The plan focuses on eight key goals: enhancing research-based curriculum and instruction, ensuring a safe and orderly environment, providing comprehensive student support services, fostering robust parent and community involvement, maintaining a state-certified faculty and staff, leveraging technology for achievement and communication, optimizing transportation safety, and promoting student wellness and safety through mental health and violence prevention initiatives. Overall, it seeks to raise student achievement, expand educational opportunities, and ensure a supportive and secure learning environment.

The meeting agenda includes a report and consideration of the 2019-20 audit, consideration of approval for the Summer Enrichment Programs Scholarship Fund, and consideration of approval for a COVID-19 extra duty stipend for staff. Information items include discussion on upcoming election details, the superintendent appraisal process, and departmental reports covering enrollment, facilities, transportation, and student activities. The board also plans to hold a closed session regarding legal or personnel matters before reconvening.

The board approved Policy Update 120 and the restriction of a 2018 Chevy Van to drivers aged 25 or older for insurance purposes. The meeting included the renewal of contracts for the Superintendent, Athletic Director, and Counselor. Additionally, the board held an executive session and conducted discussions regarding the SHARS/MSB contract, the 2023-2024 school calendar, a financial review with Region 9, bond election updates, and board officer training requirements.

The board meeting included the approval of the 2021-2022 Campus Plan, the adoption of TASB policy updates 115, 116, and 117, and the authorization of an extra duty stipend for staff. Discussion topics included school safety, cyber safety, the emergency operations plan, team building and goal setting, the renewal process for the District of Innovation Plan, and various upcoming district events.

This document outlines the Newcastle ISD Wellness Plan, designed to implement local policy and comply with federal school wellness policy requirements. It establishes nutrition guidelines, including rules for foods sold, provided, and exceptions for fundraisers. The plan sets forth wellness goals focused on promoting healthy nutrition through consistent messaging and education in classrooms and for families. It also includes goals for physical activity, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all students, and encourages parent involvement. The overarching aim is to foster healthful eating and physical activity while creating a consistent wellness message through various school-based activities.