Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD announced the naming of three new facilities in recognition of individuals who have made significant contributions to the district and the community. The EMS ISD Board of Trustees approved the names during their September 23, 2024, meeting, continuing the district’s tradition of honoring leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to the district’s growth, success and student achievement.

Dick and Heidi Elkins Agricultural Science Complex

Named in honor of Dick and Heidi Elkins, this new facility acknowledges the couple’s longstanding service to the district. Dick Elkins served on the EMS ISD Board of Education from 1998 to 2019, guiding the district through a period of unprecedented growth. His leadership helped facilitate the construction of 18 schools, including Saginaw High School and Chisholm Trail High School. Heidi Elkins played a pivotal role in promoting agricultural education in the district, co-founding the Eagle Mountain 4-H Club and actively supporting the EMS FFA program.

The couple’s dedication to the district and the broader community has been felt for over 50 years. The district's new agricultural science complex was approved by voters in the 2023 Bond election. Work on the complex is expected to begin during the 2024-2025 school year.

Mike Lebby Field House, Saginaw High School

The field house at Saginaw High School will now bear the name of Mike Lebby, who served as the school's first head football coach and athletic coordinator. Lebby’s efforts helped establish the school’s athletic programs along with the Saginaw High School culture and traditions that continue today. His impact extended beyond coaching, as he became the district’s first assistant athletic director, leaving a lasting legacy on EMS ISD’s athletics and student-athletes.

Lebby is remembered for a legacy rooted in positive relationships, mutual respect and dedication to student success across EMS ISD.

Steven G. Newcom Middle School

EMS ISD Middle School Seven will be named in honor of long-time Board member Steven G. Newcom, recognizing his decades of service to EMS ISD. Newcom joined the Board of Education in 1995 and has been a key leader in the district’s growth and development, serving multiple terms as Board President. His leadership and financial expertise helped navigate the district’s expansion, ensuring its continued success.

Before approving the nomination, Board Member Blake Mabry said, “Steve Newcom is everywhere, at games and concerts, you name it, and he and his wife are for kids and for this district. I am honored to serve alongside him.”

After the board approved the motion, Superintendent Dr. Jim F. Chadwell added, "You're able to combine what you do as a CPA and your intelligence, and you're able to analyze things, but you're also able to work in a very complex moving environment where people have opinions, and in the end, you always do what is best and what is right for kids while following policies and rules. I've rarely seen somebody be able to blend those things as well as you do."

The district's seventh middle school was approved by voters in the 2023 Bond election. The location is yet to be determined, but the school is expected to be built in the northern part of the school district to accommodate growth in that area. Work on the school is expected to begin in 2026.

These newly named facilities reflect the dedication, service and leadership of Dick and Heidi Elkins, Mike Lebby, and Steven G. Newcom, whose legacies will continue to impact the district for years to come.

Dick Elkins                                                                              Heidi Elkins

 Mike Lebby                                                                          Steven G. Newcom