Mary Pat Becker

The board conducted a regular session involving various administrative and financial matters. Key discussion topics included school administrative reports, a superintendent update regarding security grant applications and needs assessments, and authorizations for bill payments and fiscal budget closure. The board approved property casualty and worker's compensation insurance, handbook updates, school fees for the upcoming academic year, and significant curriculum purchases. Furthermore, the board ratified the 2026-27 negotiated agreement with the teachers' association, addressed personnel actions including hires and resignations, and reviewed supplemental contracts. Executive sessions were convened to discuss non-elected personnel and employer-employee negotiations.

This strategic plan outlines the purpose of the school district, aiming to define its offerings for students and families. Guided by the mission 'Intentionally Educating Today, Succeeding Tomorrow!', the plan centers on two core functions: 'Future Driven' and 'Healthy Lifestyles'. The 'Future Driven' function focuses on high-quality instructional practices, intervention and enrichment, and post-secondary planning to ensure student career success. The 'Healthy Lifestyles' function prioritizes physical health, character education, and cultivating a strong school and community culture. The overarching goal is to prepare students to become future community leaders and contribute to a capable workforce.

The agenda focuses on key organizational and administrative matters, including financial reporting and bills payable. Board deliberations are scheduled for the 2026-27 academic calendar, HPEC voting, roof bids, and copier purchases. Additionally, the Board will conduct executive sessions regarding non-elected personnel and negotiations, review resignations and hires, and consider the approval of administrator contracts.

The meeting featured administrative reports from school principals regarding academic progress, upcoming events, and professional development. The Superintendent provided updates on enrollment, financial audits, district awards, and strategic planning initiatives. The Board approved the payment of bills, a monetary donation for a video board, the purchase of the video board, the reconfiguration of bleachers, the replacement of HVAC units, and a review of the district's nepotism policy. Additionally, the Board conducted an executive session regarding non-elected personnel, approved staffing resignations and hires, and discussed the Superintendent's nomination for Superintendent of the Year along with operational concerns.

The board reviewed the annual financial audit results and received reports from educational cooperatives, building principals, and the activities director. Discussions included the potential exit of the Elkhart School District from the regional educational cooperative, plans for school building visits, and legislative updates regarding cell phone policies and behavior assessments. Administrative items included a proposal to upgrade school copiers, a review of fuel card options, and the approval of KASB policy updates. The board also authorized the investment of idle funds, approved hiring and resignation actions, and conducted executive sessions for non-elected personnel and employer-employee negotiations.