Mesquite ISD board names new pre‑K for longtime teacher Diane Nicks and approves Motley Lawrence Environmental Science Academy

The Mesquite ISD board voted to name its planned early childhood center the Diane Nicks Pre‑K Center, honoring a teacher the board described as having 53 years of service at Motley Elementary.

"So it's my recommendation on behalf of the committee that we name the new pre k center the Diane Nicks pre k center," naming‑committee chair Gary Bingham told trustees before the board approved the recommendation by voice vote.

Later in the meeting trustees considered the replacement project that will combine the Motley and Lawrence zoned elementary campuses. Administration described a concept for a theme‑based elementary focused on environmental sciences — including potential curriculum strands such as climate and ecosystems, sustainable energy and hands‑on outdoor learning — and presented possible community and college partnerships.

"Our recommended name is gonna be Motley Lawrence Environmental Science Academy," the naming committee chair said; the board approved the recommendation by voice vote.

Administrators said the theme is still under discussion and will require additional vetting; they highlighted potential district partnerships with city parks and recreation, the local arboretum, and Eastfield College. No further board action was taken on program details; trustees said staff should continue community engagement and planning.

The votes were procedural approvals of building names; the board did not adopt curricular or budget decisions for the proposed themed academy during the meeting.