Newton Public Schools Embraces Community

Megan Smallidge is the coordinator of communications and community engagement for Newton Public Schools. Megan’s title is appropriately long considering the scope of her job. There are many amazing things happening in the Newton Schools and Megan is making a great impact by improving communication about all of the good news.  I was delighted to meet with Megan and learn of the amazing job she is doing under the leadership of Newton Public Schools. Megan is energetically  immersing herself in the Newton culture and is quick to express her enthusiasm about the abundance of talent in Newton. We are lucky to have her as part of our community!

Some background data about Newton Public Schools

Newton Public School District has a total enrollment of over 12,000 students with 15 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, 2 high schools, and and integrated pre-school program. According to enrollment data from the Massachusetts Department of Education, Newton is the 9th largest district in the state. Central Administration houses approximately 11 Teaching and Learning Departments. Curriculum Coordinators, Department Heads, Teachers, Librarians collaborate to maintain excellence as stated in the NPS Mission Statement.

Mission
To educate, prepare, and inspire all students to achieve their full potential as lifelong learners, thinkers, and productive contributors to our global society.

This powerful system of collaboration is netting big. Teachers in Newton are modeling cutting edge approaches to a new learning model. The Newton Public Schools’ website  is not only serving the community with improved communications and accessibility, but also reflecting the inspirational work being done in the classroom and beyond. Just watch this compelling video on the Vision Plan for 2020.

Newton Public Schools Website at a glance

There is a ton of content on the NPS website (www3.newton.k12.ma.us). Visit these 2 noteworthy sections.

• The Families page is worth bookmarking (Click on the For Families menu). It is designed for current and perspective families is full of useful information including links to checklists and forms for the student registration system. This page also contains useful links for easy access.
• Visit the revamped District News section which features a calendar with links to events and stories. For example, in April, Newton students performed on two Steinway pianos are on loan at the Scandinavian Living Center as part of a fundraiser for the Center. Watch the video here.