As Newcastle Public Schools faces a change in superintendents, the school board members voiced their approval in the transition process that’s underway.
After serving the District for four years, Dr. Melonie Hau gave her resignation last year. After a search, which included enlisting help from the Oklahoma State School Boards Association, Dr. Cathy Walker of Stillwater was hired. Hau’s last day is Monday, June 26, and Walker will begin employment on June 28.
During the regular school board meeting June 13, board member Tiffany Elcyzyn said she is excited for Dr. Hau’s next chapter and she’s excited to be moving forward with Dr. Walker.
“Our leadership team really wrapped their arms around it,” she said.
Board member Darrin Abel said, “The transition seems to be going very well. I can’t say enough about your leadership and growth of the district as you’ve been here the past four years. You stepped in to a very difficult position and we are better for it.”
Board member Valorie Dalton was in agreement.
Hau said she has had tremendous support from the board and the community.
She also said, “My father always taught me to leave things better than how I found them.”
Abel added that Hau will have a platform in her next position as she begins working for the Oklahoma State School Boards Association as a mentor for superintendents and aspiring superintendents.
Hau had some nice comments about her replacement.
“Dr. Walker’s heart is in the place of taking care of students and staff, and she will be the biggest cheerleader for the school system,” Hau said.
