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Here are highlights from the February 7, 2023, NTPS School Board meeting:
- Good news from Lydia Hawk Elementary School Principal Kathleen Delpino:
- The school’s bilingual program students performed a Mexican folk dance, Baile Folklorico.
- Fifth-grade students shared their experiences serving their school community in a variety of leadership roles, from serving as crossing guards to helping with yearbook and Breakfast at the Bell. These student leaders exemplify our Strategic Plan Goal 2: Responsible, Resilient, Empowered Learners.
- The Board recognized the Thurston County Food Bank for its support and commitment to NTPS students since 2007. The food bank provides weekend meal bags for elementary students, manages a school gardens program, offers summer lunches in Lacey neighborhoods, and more. Chief Executive Officer Jay Kang, School Gardens Program Manager Michaela, and Lacey Food Pantry Operations Manager Morgan represented the food bank at the board meeting.
- The Board welcomed the new student advisors for the second semester. Student advisors provide a voice to the Board on behalf of NTPS students. Clover Ratliff attends Envision Career Academy. She is the chief editor for the school yearbook and has been a strong voice on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council. Ashley Nguyen is a student at Timberline High School, where her favorite subject is math. She plays soccer and golf and is president of the key club. Yashua Payne attends Summit Virtual Academy. He loves playing video games and spending time with friends; his favorite subject is science. Welcome, Clover, Ashley, and Yashua!
- The Board received an update on high school graduation rates (Strategic Plan Goal 5 – Preparedness for Post-Secondary Success). NTPS is working to increase the five-year graduation rate to 90 percent for students who are English Language Learners, are in special education, or are from low-income households. The district is also focused on increasing the percentage of students who earn a Washington State Seal of Biliteracy upon graduation. In 2022, 41 NTPS graduates earned this designation!
