NC State Theme Release 4.11

Key Feature Updates

Enhanced Dashboard Widget

The NC State Theme dashboard widget now includes a dedicated section to help you discover available blocks and find documentation more easily. This new section provides:

• Block Directory: Direct links to all blocks available based on your theme tier (Free, Pro, or Premium), making it easier to discover what’s possible with your site
• Documentation Search: A built-in search box that allows you to quickly find reference articles from the documentation site without leaving your WordPress dashboard

Better Block Discovery Experience

We’ve significantly improved the block selection experience:

• Updated Block Previews: Most blocks now have updated preview images in the block inserter, making it easier to identify the right block for your needs
• Documentation Links: Each block’s settings panel now includes a direct link to its reference documentation, providing quick access to usage instructions and best practices

Academic Programs Enhancements

• Custom Ordering: You can now set up custom ordering for Academic Programs, giving you more control over how programs are displayed to prospective students

Non-Credit Programs Improvements

• Automatic Expiration: Non-Credit Programs with end dates in the past will no longer appear on the archive page, helping keep your program listings current and relevant

Bug Fixes

Several important fixes have been implemented to improve site functionality:

• Header Configuration: Fixed an issue where dynamic headers weren’t properly switching between different header options
• Compact Masthead: Resolved problems with the compact masthead not working correctly on news pages and mobile devices
• Mobile Menu: Fixed an issue where the mobile menu icon appeared even when no menu items were present
• News Feed Block: Corrected problems with feed settings not properly displaying available options
• Spacing and Layout: Improved spacing consistency between the editor and published pages, and fixed various layout issues

Important Note About Filtering

Due to recent infrastructure changes, Custom Post Type filtering has been temporarily limited to one filter at a time. This affects the Academic Programs, Resources, Non-Credit Programs, and Courses post types. A permanent solution is being developed for a future release.

Quality of Life Improvements

Behind the scenes, we’ve made several improvements to enhance the overall experience:

• Improved Button Styling: Enhanced the visual distinction between primary and secondary buttons on colored backgrounds
• Legacy Functionality Audit: Optimized the audit tool to handle sites with large amounts of content more efficiently
• Code Consolidation: Moved most premium blocks into the main theme, reducing potential compatibility issues during updates

These updates continue our commitment to making the NC State Theme more user-friendly and reliable. The enhanced dashboard experience and improved block discovery tools should make it easier than ever to create engaging content for your site.