Culley DeGroote

The board meeting conducted a public hearing regarding the issuance of general obligation bonds to fund capital projects including HVAC, roofing, paving, equipment, and technology. Financial advisors discussed the financial impact and parameters of the bond issuance, noting that it fits within state-mandated borrowing limitations and would not increase debt service tax rates. The board also addressed regular business items including the consent agenda, the accounts payable docket, a personnel report, and a proposed increase in school meal prices for the upcoming school year due to rising food costs.

The meeting featured a presentation on the Coordinated Health Program, a collaborative partnership focused on student nutrition, mental health, and physical activity. Key topics included the results of Year 1 wellness grant initiatives, the implementation of the Wellness Champion program across schools, and the success of the employee wellness challenge. Discussions also covered student-focused programming, such as social skills lessons, social media safety workshops, and extracurricular run clubs, with an emphasis on system-wide approaches and sustainability of health initiatives.

The board meeting included a special musical presentation by a district maintenance custodian. Key agenda items included the approval of the personnel report and professional leave request, the restatement of the 401(a) savings plan to maintain IRS compliance, and the approval of two memorandums of understanding with the Hamilton Center regarding mentoring and mental health services. Additionally, the board approved an updated resolution concerning spending authority for financial institutions to ensure proper internal controls for check signing privileges. The superintendent provided an update confirming that district facilities and departments were prepared for the upcoming school year.

The board meeting featured student presentations from the Terre Haute North Vigo dance marathon team regarding their fundraising achievements for Riley Children's Hospital and the Deca team's competition results and career development projects. The Superintendent discussed strategies to improve student graduation rates through resource redirection and organizational changes. Furthermore, the board approved a new bargaining agreement with the school secretary association, reviewed personnel and professional leave reports, and addressed the accounts payable docket, which included expenditures for high school renovation mapping, tuition fees, industrial 3D printing equipment, student counseling sessions, speech pathology services, and bus repairs.

The Board meeting included student spotlights featuring a race car driver and the Deainy Elementary Robotics team, both of which discussed their recent competitive achievements and learning experiences. The Board approved the consent agenda and a personnel and professional leave report. Additionally, representatives from St. Mary-of-the-Woods College presented information regarding the 'Camp of the Woods' initiative, highlighting its focus on high school students earning college credit, the development of a growth mindset, and future expansion plans.