> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.citizenjournal.us/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Takeaways from Newton USD 373 School Board Meeting - URL: https://www.citizenjournal.us/takeaways-from-mcpherson-usd-418-school-board-meeting-11/ - Published: 2026-07-28T12:25:16.000Z - Updated: 2026-07-28T12:25:16.000Z - Description: Week of July 28, 2026 - Author: Greg Loving - Tags: ncj, #summary # District sees gains in ELA, targets math for improvement # Fifth-grade cohort highlighted for exceptional academic growth # Newton students exceed state predictions for post-secondary effectiveness # Athletic trainer agreement approved despite looming cost increases # Union State Bank donates to early education center --- ### District sees gains in ELA, targets math for improvement NEWTON, Kan. — Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services Joe Sample presented the annual academic data review, highlighting successes in English language arts and areas for improvement in math on state assessments. Elementary ELA median scores increased from 527 to 533, and the percentage of students scoring in the lowest tier dropped from 39 percent to 36 percent. While math scores also saw slight increases, a significant portion of students remain in the high-risk category, prompting the board to prioritize math interventions and targeted curriculum development in the upcoming school year. --- ### Fifth-grade cohort highlighted for exceptional academic growth NEWTON, Kan. — During the academic data presentation, Sample highlighted a major bright spot in fifth-grade student performance, particularly at Santa Fe 5/6 Center. Fifth-grade students outpaced the state median in science assessments and demonstrated above-average math scores, which Santa Fe Principal Brandon Simmelink credited to the school's intensive professional learning community implementation and collaborative classroom interventions. District leaders stated they plan to study and replicate the school's cultural and academic successes across other middle-level grades. --- ### Newton students exceed state predictions for post-secondary effectiveness NEWTON, Kan. — Sample also noted that Newton students are outperforming state expectations for post-secondary effectiveness, according to data from the Kansas State Department of Education. The district boasts an 86 percent five-year graduation rate and a 46.1 percent effectiveness average — a metric that tracks students who complete a third semester of post-secondary work or obtain an industry-recognized credential. This effectiveness rate surpasses the state's predicted 43 percent to 45 percent range for the district, reflecting successful career and technical education initiatives. --- ### Athletic trainer agreement approved despite looming cost increases NEWTON, Kan. — The board unanimously approved an athletic trainer services agreement for the upcoming school year following a clarification on pricing. While the contract was approved at its current rate, Superintendent Fred Van Ranken warned the board about potential future cost changes. Van Ranken said administrators anticipate higher rates may be requested next year by Newton Medical Center to cover expanded athletic training services for the Tournament of Champions. --- ### Union State Bank donates to early education center NEWTON, Kan. — The board formally recognized a $150 donation from Union State Bank to the Cooper Early Education Center. The funds are designated to support summer staff development at the facility. Superintendent Fred Van Ranken publicly thanked the bank for its generosity, noting that community financial support remains a vital component in providing necessary materials, technology and training for Newton educators. --- Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below: [Contact Us](https://www.citizenjournal.us/contact/) --- [![Job Board](https://rosebud-ads.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/JOB.png)](https://gregl72.github.io/job/?ref=citizenjournal.us)