Judy C. Dunlap

The board convened for a special executive session to conduct training for school board members with an external consultant and to discuss the job performance evaluations of individual employees.

The board approved a variety of financial, operational, and policy matters, including the payment of claims, a personnel report, the renewal of the community eligibility provision program, textbook recycling, and purchases of desks and podiums for Merrillville High School. Additionally, the board approved carpet replacement at the Merrillville Intermediate School choir wing, a storm drain repair, the purchase of golf carts, and a resolution declaring an emergency due to tornado damage to school facilities. Roof repairs were authorized for Filer Elementary School, and environmental remediation funds were allocated for the Intermediate School. Finally, twenty-four updated board policies were adopted, a fundraiser for the middle school cheer team was approved, and various donations were accepted to support the summer boost program and an upcoming back-to-school carnival.

The board meeting included the recognition of spring sports student athletes and their coaches, followed by the approval of personnel reports and administrative appointments. The board approved a contract for individual high-intensity tutoring services with MAP Scholar, a partnership with Smart Care Solutions for preventive kitchen equipment maintenance, the purchase of a snack vending machine for the freshman cafeteria, and the replacement of variable frequency drives at the intermediate school.

The board discussed and approved several key items including the presentation of claims, a personnel report, and the approval of 2026 summer positions and seasonal help. Information was shared regarding a Title I budget and Ed-Flex waiver application. The board reviewed and approved the 2026 summer academic programs, the purchase of six new school buses, the replacement of variable frequency drives at John Wood Elementary School, and phase two interior renovations for the same school. Additionally, the board approved the installation of wall padding at the Pirate Academy, various fundraiser requests, and accepted a donation for Fieler Elementary School. The board also authorized a date change for a future regular board meeting and held an executive pre-meeting session regarding individual employee job performance evaluations.

The board meeting featured several recognitions, including the Indiana School Nutrition Association Assistant Director/Supervisor of the Year and the presentation of Difference Maker Awards to various staff members and community partners. The board approved claims totaling $3,744,248.98 and addressed personnel reports. New business included the creation of an athletic department supervisor of operations position and the approval of service provider agreements with Anthron Med, Parallel Learning Incorporated, and Solient Health LLC. Additionally, the board discussed a revision to the school calendar to include three early release dates for professional development.