Development News for New Castle, Indiana

School Board Approves 2026-2027 Chromebook Purchases with Cost-Saving Measures and Enhanced Durability Plan

The board discussed and approved the purchase of Chromebooks for the 2026-2027 school year. The plan includes adopting a different adoption cycle to save approximately 30% on costs, extending the Chromebook lifespan from four to five years, and transitioning to Acer devices due to their durability compared to HP devices. The increased cost of Chromebooks is attributed to AI demand for memory chips. A new accountability method for student-caused damage is being revised, including consequences for repeated damage. Parents will have the option to purchase insurance, and there is a filtering system with parental controls. The motion to approve the Chromebook purchases was made and seconded, with all in favor.

Students Achieve Success in FCCLA, Athletics, Jazz Band, and Gymnastics; District Thanks Responders for Fire Incident

The board acknowledged the achievements of students in various extracurricular activities. This included FCCLA state competition where students won gold and silver medals, state qualifiers Thailand Brine and Jacob Dudley, attorney champions at the Rushville tournament (seventh grade Lady Trojans), and the high school jazz band earning a gold rating. Two students, Jada Crow and Reese Galloway, are headed to the state gymnastics competition. Additionally, second grader Malik Armstrong fulfilled his dream of being a Trojan warrior on senior night. The board also thanked staff, students, fire department, police department, and maintenance teams for addressing recent fires and smoke, and Servpro for cleanup.

School Board Approves $350,000 Budget Transfer from Education Bond to Operations Fund

The board discussed and approved the budget transfer of $350,000 from the education bond to the operations fund to cover expenses from February. This transfer is necessary to manage operational costs. The motion to approve was made and seconded, with all in favor.

School Board Approves 2027-2028 School Calendar Following Collaborative Development

The board reviewed and approved the 2027-2028 school calendar. The process involved collaboration with the Mutual Concerns Team and Teachers Association leadership, differing from previous years by presenting a single calendar (Calendar A) with a few adjustments, rather than multiple options. This collaborative approach was well-received, with a motion to approve the calendar passing with all in favor.