Joshua Hettinger

The meeting covered several administrative updates and reports. Initial discussion involved the approval of the agenda, followed by school district reports. The superintendent communicated details regarding two separate incidents occurring near the end of the school day requiring outside medical attention and law enforcement involvement, which led to school door lockdown procedures. Updates were provided on upcoming community events, including Grandparents Day and the Festival of Trees. Selections for the Joover student leadership team were announced. Recognition and congratulations were given to Mr. Matt Smith upon his retirement, highlighting his extensive dedication, the establishment of the 'graduate responsible, productive citizens' mission, and his relational leadership style at Garrett High School. A report on the mentor program at Garrett Middle School detailed its structure, success, and continuous need for community involvement. The director of food service reported that the department is now fully staffed across all five service sites, successfully serving approximately 500 breakfasts and 1300 lunches daily. Middle school reports also included updates on the distribution of information regarding the new Indiana family portal.

The work session included public comments regarding toxic leadership and support for Mr. Smith. Discussions covered student artwork display, the director's report, claims, payroll, and finances. Key financial topics included cash balance, expected receipts, budget expenditures, and the impact of Senate Bill one on property taxes and capital projects. The session also addressed community partnerships, career development program funds, and personnel matters, including the recommendation of Sam Watkins as the interim principal.

The meeting addressed the approval of the agenda and public comments expressing gratitude to the central office for collaborative contract work. Key discussion points included the collective bargaining agreement between Garrett Kaiser Butler Community School District and the Education Association, emphasizing a smooth process and sustainable raises for teachers. The implementation of athletic passes for teachers and a guest to encourage school involvement at games was also highlighted.

The Garrett-Keyser-Butler CSD School Board work session included an update on the elementary school project, covering design progress, site plans, and construction phasing. Discussions involved traffic flow, safety measures during construction, and maintaining educational activities. Interior designs for the media center and cafeteria were presented, along with collaboration space concepts. Plans for managing classroom shifts and transportation during construction were also discussed.

The meeting included a public hearing for the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Discussions covered the ratification of the existing contract with the teachers' union, factors impacting the negotiation process such as student enrollment, and new dollars coming from the new budget. The board reviewed the collective bargaining agreement, highlighting changes in yellow and removals in red. The compensation plan, athletic passes for staff members, and extracurricular activities were also discussed. The school district reports included data from parent-teacher conferences, school goals, and testing updates.