At a glance: Vape detectors, elementary expansion and more for Noblesville Schools 2020

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Although it’s technically the middle of the school year, each new year ushers in changes at Noblesville Schools, and 2020 is no different.

From safety enhancements and changes to additions in coursework and upgrades to the general operation of the district, Noblesville Schools has announced the implementation of several new initiatives for 2020.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Special training and new technology round out the district’s 2020 efforts to make its buildings safer. The district is continuing to purchase barricading products to thwart intruders and add enhanced communication systems district-wide. Leaders in each school also are undergoing threat assessment training.

At East and West middle schools and Noblesville High School, the district also will be installing vape detection sensors, similar to a smoke or carbon monoxide detector. District officials declined to comment on where the sensors would be placed or when they will be installed.

COMMUNITY

In line with its efforts to enhance mental health initiatives, Noblesville Schools has begun a community mentoring initiative. A small group of fourth- and fifth-graders at Noble Crossing, North and Promise Road elementary schools are working with adults in the community, focusing on social and emotional well-being and career development.

The district also has announced the Noblesville Schools Community Center off Field Drive, east of East Middle School. The community center will be home to a new alternative education program as well as programming for 18- to 22-year-olds with special needs. The space will double as a meeting place for the community, adult education classes and extra space for indoor practices for sports teams.

CAPITAL PROJECTS

Plans are under way for new solar fields on parcels of land the district owns near White River and Promise Road elementary schools near the transportation center by West Middle School off Hague Road. District officials said the corporation spends nearly $1.5 million each year on energy for basic needs like lighting, air conditioning and heating, but when the project is complete, they estimate the district will save several hundred thousand dollars annually.

For several years, the district has tried to manage growth in a fiscally responsible way, redistricting more than once to relieve schools in higher-growth areas from being above capacity. The district’s oldest and smallest school, North Elementary, will expand in 2020, adding space for upgraded restrooms, lunch areas and physical and music education programming.

District officials also said they are looking into the possibility of expanding Hazel Dell and Noble Crossing elementary schools on the city’s west side. While no decisions have been made, both schools are above enrollment capacity.

 Additionally, the district will build a soccer shelter that will double as a maintenance storage facility at the soccer complex near White River Elementary.

CURRICULUM

Beginning in fall 2020 for the 2020-21 academic year, Noblesville Schools has announced that through a continued partnership with Ivy Tech, it will add a variety of new dual-credit courses, including criminal justice, elementary education, human services, information technology and welding. Another new class for high school students will be computer integrated manufacturing.

IMPORTANT DATES

  • Jan. 31 – Hall of Fame induction basketball game, community spaghetti supper
  • Feb. 21 – Miller-Palooza 150th Anniversary Extravaganza
  • Feb. 27 – 150th Anniversary Learning Showcase Expo
  • April 1-10 – Spring break
  • June 1 – Last day of school
  • June 6 – Graduation
  • Aug. 3 – First day of school
  • Oct. 12-23 – Fall break
  • Dec. 21-Jan. 4 – Winter break

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