Increased rigor in core subjects.

Preschool services for Newport children from birth to age 5.

Developing district capacity in teaching.

Redesign of curriculum and services at Newport High School.

Development of community engagement programs.

The total estimated cost for the first year of the plan is $682,371.

Turner noted that at the end of the five years, the budgeted surplus for the school district, which now stands at $5.1 million,will still be above the state mandated minimum by more than $2 million dollars.

The plan states that growth is focused on primarily academic needs, but changes in technology and facilities were also considered.

Superintendent Michael Brandt told the board he's determined to see the project through.

"You'll get a 150 percent from me and my staff to make this work," said Brandt.

Board member Andrea Janovic objected to the elimination of the position of assistant superintendent. The position was automatically deleted because it was unfilled for the upcoming school year.

"I am saddened that we are not approving the assistant superintendent position," said Janovic. "We need to recognize we need these skilled people in those positions to work alongside (Superintendent) Brandt. I don't want people to think we're so concerned about money that we won't get the job done."

Rick Hulefeld, executive director of Children, Inc., was in attendance during the meeting told the board he was impressed with the new plan.

"What you've approved today is of national significance," he said. "(The plan) is accountable, it's aligned and it starts early. Year after year, you'll know if it's working."

Hulefeld said with the five year plan the district had established "a battery of screens" to monitor the progress of its students.

"(The plan) is something that we can work on," said Brandt. "I hope we can be very diligent, making changes as necessary."