Strengthening Our Schools, Supporting Our Community
Now more than ever, strong leadership matters. Supporting students, recognizing unsung heroes, and ensuring every family has access to resources—because a strong community starts with strong schools.
Volume #9 - February 2025
Friends,
In addition to sharing key updates about the district and the work we’re doing, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the uncertainty many of us are feeling. Public education is at a crossroads—not just here, but across the country. Federal policies are shifting, and decisions are being made that could impact the students and educators in our community.
I want you to know that I am watching these changes closely and remain committed to ensuring that any decisions made at the national or state level are met with responses that prioritize what’s best for our students. The needs of our schools—and the safety, health, and success of every child—will always come first.
Now more than ever, we must come together to support all students, uplift educators, and ensure that our schools remain strong, inclusive, and focused on the future. I’m honored to serve this community and will continue working alongside you to keep Council Rock a place where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Yours in service,
Nikki
Volume #9 - February 2025
Heartfelt Moments and Community Support
This past year has reinforced how vital it is to have strong support systems—both in our schools and in our personal lives. My own family has faced heart-related emergencies, making the lifesaving actions taken at Council Rock High School South even more meaningful to me.
At the January Board meeting, we recognized the staff and first responders who saved a student’s life after a cardiac emergency. (Video starts at 31:30.) Their quick thinking and training ensured the best possible outcome, and I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them.
Moments like these remind us why preparedness and community support matter so much. That’s why I’m especially proud of the progress we’ve made toward becoming a Heart Safe School District, an initiative I introduced at the May Education Committee meeting. Through our partnership with CHOP’s Youth Heart Watch program, we have been working to ensure our schools are fully prepared for cardiac emergencies by training staff in CPR and AED use and implementing a cardiac emergency response plan.
Key Developments from the Education Committee
At the January Board meeting, I shared updates from the December Education Committee meeting, highlighting key initiatives shaping Council Rock’s future.
Student Wellness Survey: Dr. Black shared the results of the district-wide student wellness survey, with input from more than 2,200 families and staff. The top concerns were reducing emotional distress and improving social behavior. The administration is reviewing potential programs to address these needs, with recommendations expected in a spring committee meeting.
Full-Day Kindergarten: The district continues its work on full-day kindergarten implementation, focusing on scheduling, curriculum expansion, and a more robust kindergarten readiness screening. Teachers are excited about piloting new units that incorporate social studies and science through purposeful play.
English Language Development (ELD) Program: With a growing population of multilingual learners, the district has partnered with the Bucks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) to enhance support for students. Plans include forming a task force, providing additional staff training, and increasing family engagement.
New High School Courses: Both high schools will introduce new course offerings next year. Modern Band will provide students with opportunities in digital music production, while an accelerated American Civilization 9 course will help students build strong reading and writing skills to prepare for advanced coursework.
High School Schedule Review: The district is revisiting the possibility of adjusting high school schedules, including a later start time. While no decisions have been made, the administration hopes to begin exploring options to reduce student stress and increase flexibility in course offerings. This will be a long and thoughtful process, carefully considering all the implications for our high school community. We owe it to our students to take a close look and see if we can do better.
Special Education Leadership Updates: The district recently welcomed Amanda Sirine as the new Special Education Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction. Additionally, the search continues for a new Director of Special Services, with final interviews currently underway.
Note: The new email for the Special Services department is specialservices@crsd.org.
Planning for the Future
High School Course Selection for 8th Graders
Eighth-grade students are preparing for the transition to high school, and course selection plays a crucial role in shaping their academic path. With new course offerings available, I encourage families to explore the options together.
Resources for Students Aging Out of Special Services
Families of students in special services who are aging out of Council Rock may not realize the incredible resources available through the Bucks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU). They offer programs to support students transitioning beyond high school with continued education, job training, and life skills development. Additionally, BCIU provides enriching summer programs tailored for these students.
Community Initiatives Making an Impact
Support Student Meals Through Giant’s Round Up Program
Help fight food insecurity by rounding up your bill at Giant. With $14,000 already raised for Council Rock students, your small change can make a big difference. Learn more or create an account at Giant here.
Support MBIT Students with School Merchandise Sales
Support future trades professionals at MBIT! Purchasing MBIT gear helps fund valuable student programs.
Mark Your Calendar
Thursday, February 6 – Facilities Committee Meeting (start time is 5 PM)
Wednesday, February 12 - HAC Opens for 2nd Q Report Cards
Thursday, February 13 – Finance Committee Meeting
Thursday, February 20 – Board of School Directors Meeting
Thursday, February 27 – Education Committee Meeting
Thursday, March 6 – Facilities Committee Meeting
Thursday, March 13 – Finance Committee Meeting
Thursday, March 20 – Board of School Directors Meeting
Thursday, March 27 – Education Committee Meeting
Unless otherwise noted, all meetings take place at 7 PM at The Chancellor Center, 30 N Chancellor St, Newtown, PA 18940.
Disclaimer: Note: The opinions expressed in this newsletter are not official statements made on behalf of the entire Council Rock school board or Council Rock administration. It is for informational purposes and responses or inquiries cannot be made in an official school district manner.