I am grateful for the way our teachers, librarians, paraprofessionals, sponsors, and coaches share their talents and heart with our kids. I am grateful for our hard working crews that maintain and secure our facilities. I am grateful for the way our bus drivers safely transport our students and greet them in the morning and ask about their day as they take them home. I am grateful for our custodians who prepare our facilities for learning and our cafeteria staff that connects with students as they serve meals. I am grateful for our counselors that listen and guide and our nurses that are there for those in need. I am grateful for our Panther Family cheering on our students to athletic, artistic, and academic success and I am grateful for our school board that works together to support our growing learning community.

We have so many things to be grateful for!

I am grateful for this community and so blessed to celebrate our children and watch them grow with the support of so many who serve with their whole heart to help them succeed.

 

From our Panther Family to yours this holiday, may the days bring good company, great times, and warm memories. We look forward to seeing you when school resumes on December 2.

Mandy D. Epley

Navarro ISD Superintendent

Navarro Independent School District celebrated a pivotal moment in its history during the November 18 Board of Trustees meeting, honoring the exceptional service of outgoing Board President Mrs. Renee Rehfeld, canvassing the results of the November 5 General Election, and welcoming new and returning trustees.

Mrs. Rehfeld, who served on the Navarro ISD Board of Trustees for 16 years (2008-2024), was recognized for her tireless dedication and leadership. Under her guidance, Mrs. Rehfeld’s tenure saw enrollment increase over fifty percent, three bond passages for the construction of the current high school, intermediate school, construction of a new high school and future elementary which will add a second campus for grades 2-5 in 2027. Her leadership was also instrumental in stabilizing the district’s finances, advocating for competitive staff salaries and improving the quality of education and opportunities for students.

“Renee has been an unwavering champion of our students, staff, and community,” said Superintendent Mandy Epley. “Her commitment to excellence has left an enduring legacy on this district, and we are deeply grateful for her years of service.”

As Mrs. Rehfeld transitions to a new role as Vice President of Development and Marketing for Canine Classmates, Navarro ISD extends its heartfelt thanks and best wishes for her continued success.

The November 18 meeting also marked the swearing-in of new and returning board members. Becki Stephenson and Joel Frederick took the oath of office as newly elected trustees, while Clint Scheib, a returning member, was sworn in for another term. Melissa Sartain, who was re-elected to the board, was unable to attend the meeting but will be sworn in at a later date.

In a subsequent vote, the board reorganized its leadership. Melissa Sartain was elected President, Clint Scheib as Vice-President, Donna Gilliam as Secretary, and Dan Reinhard as Assistant Secretary for the 2024-2025 term. These newly elected officers will continue to provide strong leadership as the district focuses on its mission of providing exceptional educational opportunities for all students.

“We are thrilled to welcome Becki Stephenson and Joel Frederick to the board,” said Superintendent Epley, “and are excited to continue working with Clint Scheib and Melissa Sartain.” The Navarro ISD Team of eight, consisting of seven board members and the superintendent, is committed to fulfilling the district’s collaborative vision as Navarro ISD remains on the path to success and excellence.

Navarro ISD is poised for significant growth in the coming years, according to a recent demographic report presented by Bob Templeton of Zonda Education. The district's enrollment projections, which are experiencing a robust 10% annual growth rate, remain on target to reach a peak projection of 2,697 students this school year which typically occurs the month of November.

The projected growth data will be reviewed at the December Bond Oversight/Facilities Planning Committee meeting. The data supports the committee's recommended ten year plan to address facilities to support Navarro ISD's commitment to providing quality education, meeting student needs and providing learning environments to support the growing population.

As you drive by on Highway 123, you can't miss the progress on the new high school:

We're excited to see the project continue to take shape, and we can't wait to welcome students and staff to this state-of-the-art facility! See monthly updates by clicking here.

To view the agenda or attachments for the information presented at the board meeting click here.

Mon., December 16, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Intermediate Cafeteria