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![2026 Top Workplace Award]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1778454737/newpalk12inus/om9hnyw4wrwqvmeocvwg/HHrLfi7XkAIAGQi.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1778454737/newpalk12inus/om9hnyw4wrwqvmeocvwg/HHrLfi7XkAIAGQi.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1778454737/newpalk12inus/om9hnyw4wrwqvmeocvwg/HHrLfi7XkAIAGQi.jpg","width":679}])
Craig Smith
New Palestine, IN — New Palestine Community Schools (NPCS) is proud to announce that it has been recognized as a 2026 Top Workplace, an honor that celebrates organizations committed to building exceptional workplace cultures and empowering employees to thrive.
The Top Workplaces designation is based entirely on employee feedback gathered through a confidential survey measuring key elements of workplace culture, including leadership, communication, connection, professional growth, and employee engagement.
This recognition reflects the strong culture that exists across New Palestine Community Schools, one rooted in collaboration, support, innovation, and a shared commitment to student success.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition because it comes directly from the voices of our staff,” said Superintendent Dr. Gina Pleak. “Our teachers, support staff, and administrators are the heart of our district. Their dedication to one another and to our students is what makes NPCS such a special place to work and learn. To represent New Palestine Community Schools and public education through this recognition is truly an honor. We are proud of the culture we have built together in support of our students, families, and one another.”
NPCS has long prioritized creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and connected. Through professional learning opportunities, collaborative leadership structures, staff wellness initiatives, and a strong sense of community, the district continues to invest in the people who make a difference in the lives of students every day.
This mission-centered approach to education continues to foster an environment where staff members are empowered to innovate, collaborate, and grow professionally while supporting connected, authentic, and meaningful learning experiences for students.
New Palestine Community Schools is grateful for the dedication of its employees and proud to celebrate this recognition together as a community.
![Photo of Assistant Superintendent Nicholas Mitchaner]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1776116627/newpalk12inus/wxbpyezscudmyph00uw9/Mitchaner.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1776116627/newpalk12inus/wxbpyezscudmyph00uw9/Mitchaner.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1776116627/newpalk12inus/wxbpyezscudmyph00uw9/Mitchaner.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1776116627/newpalk12inus/wxbpyezscudmyph00uw9/Mitchaner.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1776116627/newpalk12inus/wxbpyezscudmyph00uw9/Mitchaner.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1776116627/newpalk12inus/wxbpyezscudmyph00uw9/Mitchaner.jpg","width":1987}])
Craig Smith
New Palestine, IN — New Palestine Community Schools (NPCS) is proud to announce the appointment of Nicholas Mitchaner as the corporation’s Assistant Superintendent, effective July 1, 2026.
Mr. Mitchaner brings a wealth of educational experience and a deep commitment to student success, having served in multiple leadership roles within NPCS and the greater Indianapolis area. He currently serves as the district’s Secondary Curriculum Coordinator, where he oversees curriculum, programming, and assessment for grades 7–12.
In his current role, Mitchaner has led key district initiatives, including the implementation of Indiana’s new diploma pathways, the expansion of college and career readiness opportunities, and the coordination of all K–12 state and national assessments. He has also played an integral role in professional development, securing grants, and supporting English Learner programming across NPCS.
“Mr. Mitchaner is a thoughtful, positive, and highly respected leader who truly understands NPCS—our people, our purpose, and our commitment to students,” said Superintendent Gina Pleak. “This was a highly sought-after position, and throughout the interview process, Nick quickly rose to the top. His strong instructional background, common-sense approach to leadership, and ability to build meaningful relationships and effective systems make him exceptionally well-suited to serve as our Assistant Superintendent. I am confident he will continue to serve our students, staff, and community at the highest level.”
Prior to his current role, Mitchaner served as Assistant Principal at New Palestine High School from 2019 to 2024. During that time, he helped expand Advanced Placement and Early College opportunities, supported students in meeting graduation pathways, and played a key role in strengthening systems of support for all learners.
Mitchaner began his career in education as a science teacher, teaching chemistry and middle school science. His classroom experience continues to inform his leadership approach, ensuring decisions remain grounded in what is best for students and teachers.
“I am honored to continue serving the students, staff, parents, and community of New Palestine Community Schools in my new role as Assistant Superintendent,” said Mitchaner. “I look forward to continuing building on our already strong tradition of excellence and fostering meaningful opportunities for our students. NPCS is a special place with incredible people - and I am grateful I get to continue supporting our vision of Dragon Excellence Every day!”
Mitchaner holds a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Germanic Studies from Indiana University, a Master of Science in Education and administrative licensure from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, and an Education Specialist degree from Indiana State University.
New Palestine Community Schools looks forward to the continued impact of Mr. Mitchaner’s leadership as the district advances its mission of providing an environment in which knowledge and skills are developed so every student will achieve their personal best.
![New Palestine Community Schools Board of Trustees and Members Honored by Indiana School Boards Association]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768571515/newpalk12inus/s7nvqvtsqv5cgkhut5bq/BoardPhoto2026.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768571515/newpalk12inus/s7nvqvtsqv5cgkhut5bq/BoardPhoto2026.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1768571515/newpalk12inus/s7nvqvtsqv5cgkhut5bq/BoardPhoto2026.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1768571515/newpalk12inus/s7nvqvtsqv5cgkhut5bq/BoardPhoto2026.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768571515/newpalk12inus/s7nvqvtsqv5cgkhut5bq/BoardPhoto2026.png","width":1498}])
Craig Smith
The New Palestine Community Schools Board of Trustees has been recognized by the Indiana School Boards Association (ISBA) with an Advanced Level Exemplary Governance Award (EGA) for calendar year 2025, highlighting the Board’s commitment to student success and ongoing professional development.
In addition to the board-level recognition, individual members were also honored for their dedication to continuous learning and effective governance. Amanda Wooton earned the Commendable Level, and Jon Hooker received the Distinguished Level distinction through the EGA program.
Each year, ISBA honors school boards and individual board members for their service and commitment to professional growth. The Exemplary Governance Awards program recognizes board members who earn points through participation in seminars, workshops, conferences, and other governance-focused learning opportunities. Strong board governance requires a continual investment in learning, and these recognitions reflect that dedication.
“School boards play a vital role in shaping the success of students and communities,” said ISBA Executive Director Terry Spradlin. “Board members who actively engage in professional development are better equipped to lead and govern effectively.”
“Our NPCS Board of Trustees exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and a commitment to continuous growth,” said Superintendent Dr. Gina Pleak. “Their dedication to learning and governance ensures we remain focused on what matters most—supporting our students, staff, and community with excellence every day.”
Award recipients were formally recognized at ISBA’s Spring Regional Meetings in April.
![Photo of NPHS Graduates visiting NPJH on their Senior Walk]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1773316994/newpalk12inus/ckbugbuoqrhigi8kuxha/Screenshot2026-03-12at80215AM.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1773316994/newpalk12inus/ckbugbuoqrhigi8kuxha/Screenshot2026-03-12at80215AM.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1773316994/newpalk12inus/ckbugbuoqrhigi8kuxha/Screenshot2026-03-12at80215AM.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1773316994/newpalk12inus/ckbugbuoqrhigi8kuxha/Screenshot2026-03-12at80215AM.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1773316994/newpalk12inus/ckbugbuoqrhigi8kuxha/Screenshot2026-03-12at80215AM.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1773316994/newpalk12inus/ckbugbuoqrhigi8kuxha/Screenshot2026-03-12at80215AM.png","width":1930}])
Craig Smith
Dear New Palestine Community Schools Families,
I am writing to share an important update regarding New Palestine Community Schools that will take effect beginning with the 2026–2027 school year.
After careful consideration and planning, NPCS will implement a grade-level reconfiguration designed to strengthen the student experience, reduce transitions for children, and ensure we are responsibly managing our facilities and resources.
Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year:
- Brandywine Elementary School, Sugar Creek Elementary School, and New Palestine Elementary School will serve students in grades K–5.
- New Palestine Elementary School will continue to host staff daycare and Pre-K programming.
- The current New Palestine Intermediate School building will become New Palestine Junior High and will serve students in grades 6–8.
As part of this transition, the current New Palestine Junior High building will close.
This decision was not made lightly. As many in our community know, the current junior high building has become increasingly inefficient and unreliable to maintain. The building requires significant ongoing maintenance and infrastructure investment, and continuing to operate it long-term would not be a responsible use of resources for NPCS or our community.
By transitioning the current intermediate building to serve grades 6–8, we are able to provide students with a more efficient and reliable learning environment while also being responsible stewards of taxpayer resources.
This change will also reduce one school transition for students and families. Under this structure, students will spend an additional year in their elementary school and then three years together during their middle school experience. We believe this creates even stronger opportunities for relationships, continuity, and support during those important adolescent years.
This decision allows NPCS to responsibly manage facilities and complete the projects mentioned without needing to seek a referendum from our community.
As we move forward, we will also begin conversations about future facility improvements across NPCS, including renovations and potential additions to the new New Palestine Junior High building and Sugar Creek Elementary School. Having the building operate as a 6–8 junior high next year will allow students and staff to experience the configuration firsthand, which will provide valuable insight as we plan future improvements.
Our focus remains the same as it always has been: ensuring our schools are places where students feel safe, cared for, respected, valued, and successful.
We know families may have questions as we move through this transition. Please visit our website for a detailed timeline and FAQ section for further details.
Thank you for your continued partnership and for the trust you place in New Palestine Community Schools to serve your amazing children.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gina Pleak
![New Palestine Principal Kayleigh Fosnow Surprised with Milken Educator Award]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1765994949/newpalk12inus/tqbuywgwitclzcni2ti8/NewPalestineElementaryPrincipalKayleighFosnowWinsNationalMilkenAward.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1765994949/newpalk12inus/tqbuywgwitclzcni2ti8/NewPalestineElementaryPrincipalKayleighFosnowWinsNationalMilkenAward.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1765994949/newpalk12inus/tqbuywgwitclzcni2ti8/NewPalestineElementaryPrincipalKayleighFosnowWinsNationalMilkenAward.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1765994949/newpalk12inus/tqbuywgwitclzcni2ti8/NewPalestineElementaryPrincipalKayleighFosnowWinsNationalMilkenAward.png","width":940}])
Craig Smith
New Palestine Community Schools is incredibly proud to celebrate Kayleigh Fosnow, Principal of New Palestine Elementary, on being named a Milken Educator Award recipient—one of the nation’s most prestigious honors in education.
New Palestine Community Schools is incredibly proud to celebrate Kayleigh Fosnow, Principal of New Palestine Elementary, on being named a Milken Educator Award recipient—one of the nation’s most prestigious honors in education.
This award recognizes outstanding educators who are making a powerful impact on student learning, leadership, and school culture every day. Principal Fosnow’s dedication to students, staff, and families exemplifies excellence, purpose, and heart—and this recognition is well deserved.
Please join us in congratulating Principal Fosnow on this extraordinary achievement!
BIO, PHOTOS AND VIDEO: https://www.milkeneducatorawards.org/educators/view/kayleigh-fosnow