Your local school board is working as diligently as possible to elevate our school district’s rating from an “F” to an “A.” TO achieve this goal will require a minimal amount of time, however, we are committed to this objective.

An assessment indicating NASD as a very low performing district by some obscure website is insignificant compared to the Mississippi Department of Education’s evaluation and publication of our grade “F.” Having been graded “F” has motivated us to do whatever is legal and moral to enhance the growth and development of our students, and thereby eliminate this assessment.

The appointment of a new superintendent is prima facie evidence of the board of trustee’s commitment to progressive change. Notably, a five-year strategic plan is under development with significant input from parents and community. Magnet school development, ninth grade academy, administrative changes and other curriculum changes are included in the plan. Our superintendent has hosted community forums to enhance transparency of the administration’s efforts to invite and involve community participation and support.

After considerable study and administrative effort, our superintendent with the support of the board of trustees has recommended contracting out the administrative and academic services of our alternative school. This strategy will save more than $100,000 in budgeted funds, reduce our student drop out percentages and afford a state recognized fully accredited diploma by “AdvancEd” to some students who may not otherwise qualify.

Despite a reduction in budget funds of nearly $13,145,213 since 2010 levied by the State of Mississippi, the board of trustees and NASD administration is still and must remain committed to moving our district from an “F” to an “A” with less funding. Our administration has and is continuing to meet the huge challenge of providing more effective education and growth with less funding. Having reduced or cut many programs to the bone, we must still give our students an opportunity to compete in the coming global marketplace. We must be willing to provide that opportunity with local taxes, in addition to state and federal funds.

Citizens, citizen groups and elected officials are invited to monthly board meetings. Our superintendent and the board of trustees have an open door policy and will welcome input from all citizens.

 

Benny Wright

Board of Trustees member