Anderson Community Schools

The board discussed significant damage to Highland Middle School and Northside Intermediate school buildings caused by a recent severe weather event. The board approved Resolution R-2026-11 to declare an emergency under Indiana Code 36-1-12-9, which allows for expedited roof repairs at Highland Middle School by Fredericks Contractors, as the damage did not exceed the insurance deductible. It was noted that the expected completion date for the repairs is May 30, 2026, with no expected impact on classrooms.

The board discussed the superintendent search process, including efforts to incorporate community input. Significant time was dedicated to hearing parent concerns regarding disciplinary practices, the application of the discipline matrix, and the use of Probationary Continued Education Agreements at Anderson Intermediate School. The board also reviewed the Anderson Federation of Teachers' report on staffing. Finally, the board approved the financial report, human resources report, and requests for field trips and professional development conferences.

The board meeting included presentations on the Ivy Tech Spanish Language Partnership and ADM data. Key discussions covered updates on the superintendent search process and a significant public comment session regarding systemic issues and gaps in the Special Education department's programming across various grade levels. The Anderson Federation of Teachers provided updates on staffing protocols and reaffirmed that no layoffs are currently planned. The board approved financial claims, the Human Resources report regarding personnel changes, and field trip and conference requests. Additionally, a presentation from the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was approved, and the board addressed follow-up inquiries regarding the formation of parent and family engagement groups.

The meeting agenda included standard procedural items such as a Moment of Reflection, Pledge of Allegiance, guidelines for public comment, call to order, and approval of the agenda. Key business items included Superintendent's Comments and Board President's Comments, followed by sessions for patron comments and discussion with the Anderson Federation of Teachers. Board Actions consisted of consent items covering the Financial Report, Human Resources Report, and approvals for Field Trips and/or Conference Leaves, followed by a session for Other Business Before the Board.

The board meeting report focused on an analysis of Average Daily Membership (ADM) and student mobility. Key points included the Spring 2026 ADM figure of 5,771, noting a net loss of 6 students since Fall 2025, which represents a significant recovery compared to the previous year's loss. The discussion also covered the sources and destinations of student enrollment changes, highlighting inbound and outbound movements related to APA Academy, Virtual Programs, Indianapolis, Home School, and Muncie. Insights revealed growth in homeschooling and virtual program enrollment, along with the primary impact of families moving in and out of Anderson on overall student mobility.