Scott Collins

The regular meeting included opening items where a patron from the PTSA shared positive updates on recent activities, including fundraising success and support for students. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing achievements under the "Decatur Proud" segment, which featured performances by the DCHS Band, recognition of the DCHS Competition Cheer Team as State Runner-Up and Conference Champions, acknowledgments for 4-H Exhibit winners at the Indiana State Fair, and presentation of the Tomorrow Ready Award to two staff members for their dedication. Action items included the approval of staff reports and addenda, as well as the approval of claims totaling over $5.2 million and payrolls totaling over $4.1 million. New/revised NEOLA Board Policies were presented for a first reading. The financial report covering the Education Fund, Referendum Fund, Operation Fund, and Rainy Day Fund was reviewed. Board members concluded the meeting by acknowledging the hard work that secured grant funds, celebrating recognized individuals, and bidding farewell to a dedicated staff member named Lisa.

The document details proceedings from an Executive Session held to discuss the job performance evaluation of an individual employee. This was followed by a Reorganization of the Board of Education, covering the election of officers (President, Vice President, Secretary), appointment of other key roles, establishment of regular meeting times, and discussion of member compensation and conflicts of interest. The subsequent Regular Meeting included opening items, recognition via the Tomorrow Ready Awards, approval of staff reports, claims, and several year-end appropriation and fund transfer resolutions. Action items also included the second reading of NEOLA Board Policies and approval requests for an overnight trip for the DCHS Theatre Class & Wrestling Team and the purchase of Work Based Learning Buses. The meeting concluded with a monthly financial report and closing comments.

The Board of Education meeting included recognition of Tomorrow Ready Award recipients, approval of staff reports and addendums, and acceptance of claims and payrolls. The board approved the 2025-26 contracts for support, administrative, and teaching staff, and considered a revised 2026-27 school calendar. A financial report was presented, and the disposal/donation of an obsolete piano from West Newton Elementary School was approved. The superintendent acknowledged Veterans Day programs, congratulated the varsity cheer squad, football team, and Tomorrow Ready Award recipients, and announced the CFO's resignation and a new position.

The meeting addressed the impact of potential cutbacks at the U.S. Department of Education on districts and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability. Employee groups were recognized, and Tomorrow Ready Awards were presented to Beth Zorman and Karen Cochran. The board approved the staff report and addendum, the 2025-26 Administrators Handbook, the 2025-26 New Teacher Handbook, and financial claims and payrolls. Additionally, the Resolution for Appropriations and Tax Rates and the 2026 Budget Expense Reduction Resolution were approved. A financial report was presented for various funds, and upcoming district events were announced.

This document outlines the core values and vision for the Msd Of Decatur Township, serving as a roadmap for fostering a positive educational environment and preparing students for future success. It is built upon a 'culture guide' that emphasizes respect, teamwork, and excellence, and incorporates the E+R=O formula (event + response = outcome) as a guiding mindset. The plan also includes a 'portrait of a graduate' detailing desired student attributes such as being knowledgeable, thoughtful, effective communicators, collaborators, hardworking, resilient, accountable, and determined, all aimed at equipping them for college, career, and life.