The recent release of the 2023-24 accountability results by the State Board of Education has brought good news to Newton County, with all three school districts achieving notable accomplishments.
The Newton County School District received an "A" rating, reflecting the hard work and dedication of students, teachers, and staff. The district earned 750 accountability points, with a graduation rate of 94.1% and high proficiency levels in reading (60.5%), math (74%), and science (73.8%).
“We are proud to recognize the outstanding performance of our individual schools,” Superintendent Brooke Sibley said. “Newton County Elementary School has received an ‘A’ rating for its continued excellence in education, and Newton County High School has also earned an ‘A’ rating, further exemplifying our commitment to high academic standards.” Sibley added, “This recognition is a testament to the unwavering efforts of our educators, the support of our community, and the dedication of our students to their academic success.”
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The Union Public School District has maintained its "A" rating for the sixth consecutive year, securing 750 accountability points and ranking 10th among all Mississippi school districts and charter schools. Highlights include a 95.9% graduation rate and top 20 proficiency in all subjects at Union High School.
“We’re really proud of every person that makes up our school community,” Superintendent Tyler Hansford said. “We face a lot of challenges in providing a top-notch education for our students, but thanks to the people we have, we hang right in there among the very best. We’re blessed with great staff, great students, great parents, and a super supportive community. It takes all of that.” Hansford added, “From local businesses sponsoring school events to parents volunteering their time and resources to ensure success, this success wouldn’t be possible without the strong network of community support.”
Meanwhile, the Newton Municipal School District celebrated a high graduation rate of 97.3%, ranking it among the top 10 districts in the state. The district has maintained a “B” rating according to the 2023-24 accountability results. The district scored 636 accountability points, with proficiency rates of 33.3% in reading, 41.3% in math, and 58.4% in science.
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, staff, parents, school administrators, and district administrators,” Superintendent Glenda Nickson said. “We thank each of you for your commitment to excellence and for believing in the future of our school community. Together, we are on an upward trajectory as we embrace our 2023-24 theme: One School, One District: Making a World of Difference.”
Across the state, Newton Municipal School District ranked fifth in Mississippi for having one of the highest graduation rates and was listed among the top 10 districts with the lowest dropout rates, with only 1.3%. Union Public School District also made the top 10 list with a dropout rate of just 1.4%.
These achievements highlight the unwavering commitment of Newton County’s educators, students, and community members to providing high-quality education and supporting student success. As each district prepares for the future, the focus remains on continuing this upward trajectory and striving for even greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
