The Marshalltown School Board approved naming a portion of the Welcome Center after a former Anson Elementary Principal and board president on Monday night.
The board voted 6-0 to name the facility after Bea Niblock, who spent 49 years in Iowa public school education. It was recommended to name the facility after the influential figure by Superintendent Dr. Theron Schutte at the Aug. 7 school board meeting. The new facility name is now the B.A. Niblock / MCSD Orpheum Welcome Center.
“I had the privilege of serving on the board with Bea for six years. Bea is a tireless advocate for kids,” said School Board President Sean Heitmann. “Naming the new district Welcome Center in her honor is a fitting tribute to her decades of work with and on behalf of the students and families of the community.”
Niblock spent eight years serving on the Marshalltown Community School District School Board, most of which was spent as the board president. She volunteered countless hours of unpaid time to provide the best education for students. Her commitment to board leadership through serving on committees, attending board professional development opportunities, and helping MCSD navigate tough and unique experiences was commendable.
Niblock also served 17 years as principal of Anson Elementary School and 24 years as a teacher and principal at other districts. She is passionate about advocating for Marshalltown students and families and it was her goal to do “whatever it takes” to position all students for success.
“Bea Niblock has made a significant positive impact on the lives of Marshalltown Community School District students, families and employees as a school administrator and school board member,” said Schutte. “The naming of the Orpheum Welcome Center; in her honor, is very fitting for what she has done for our district and community. She was very supportive of creating a welcome center and has provided financial start-up support. She has additionally pledged significant financial support for deserving Bobcat graduates pursuing post-secondary education in the future.”
The B.A. Niblock / MCSD Orpheum Welcome Center had its official ribbon cutting in early July and is located on 220 E. Main Street. Families can visit and receive assistance Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Parents or guardians can also call the B.A. Niblock / MCSD Orpheum Welcome Center at 641-352-7303.
