He stated that many different people are doing many different portions of curriculum development at each building. The proposed new position could encompass curriculum development, grant administration and other duties as deemed necessary. The position would be 215 days and a licensed administrator would be preferred. 

A motion was made and seconded by Teri Johnston and Deke DeMarco, respectively, to approve the position of corporation director of curriculum. But the motion failed in a 3-2 vote, with board members Larry Beach, Mike Tetzloff, and Tim Rausch voting in opposition. (Board president Joe Cunningham did not vote, and member Rhonda Heims was absent.)

Foster admitted to WKVI radio that he was surprised the board did not approve the position, saying he was unaware there were any concerns over the proposal. He added he intends to discuss and re-work the proposal further and bring it back before the school board.

Regarding the second matter, a job description change, Foster reported that secretary/assistant Katie DeGroot completes over 30 state reports and other, non-secretarial type duties during the year. Thus, a new job description for her position was presented for approval – technology data specialist.  After discussion, the board voted 4-1 to approve the new job description for Mrs. DeGroot.  Board member Larry Beach voted in opposition.

In other business, the board approved a recommendation from Foster to accept a base bid of $2.5 million for the renovation project at the elementary school, along with acceptance of three alternates. Foster reported to the board that construction bids for the elementary school did come in as expected. 

Also at Foster’s recommendation, the board took five more alternates under advisement until bond sales are reviewed.  The low bid was from Larson-Danielson, the same contractor renovating the middle/high school.  These projects were approved last year.

Foster presented a proposal for asbestos removal for some rooms within the buildings.  The board voted approval.

Under personnel matters, the board approved the following individuals for certified positions:

  • Cathy DeFries – elementary school teacher
  • Matt Howard – high school English
  • Craig Barr – high school biology

The following individuals were approved for classified positions:

  • Kari Combs – elementary school instructional assistant
  • Mary Cotner – elementary school instructional assistant
  • Rachel Foster – elementary school instructional assistant
  • Judith Scutchfield – elementary school instructional assistant
  • Tara Terry – elementary school instructional assistant
  • Lucretia Perry – middle school instructional assistant
  • Whitlee Scott – high school instructional assistant
  • Ryan Harrison – bus driver
  • Tami Powell – bus driver
  • Pamela Ricks – bus driver
  • Nate Goble – assistant soccer coach

Sandy Haselby submitted her resignation for the purpose of retirement. Mrs. Haselby has been an Eastern Pulaski Schools bus driver for 28 years.  She was wished well and thanked for her years of service.

Foster observed that the pool of applicants for staff openings was small, but that does not diminish the quality individuals recommended. “We are lucky to have such qualified individuals, he said.”

The first reading of Section 206 – Superintendent’s Evaluation was held in May.  The policy was “cleaned up” and aligned with the teacher’s evaluation process.  After discussion, the board voted approval to the amended policy.

Foster presented a classified salary schedule for all classified employees.  After discussion , the board voted approval.

Foster presented the first reading on a proposed classified employee handbook.  Discussion ensued.  Consensus was to present it at the August meeting for the second reading and approval.

Foster gave a financial report for the period ending June 30.  All corporation funds have positive balances and are on track with previous years.  The claims were presented as well.  After discussion, the board voted to approve all claims as presented. 

Foster also reported on the following: 

  • Student attendance was down a little last semester, but still very good – elementary school 96.94%; middle school 97.5%; high school 96.16% for a total of 96.80%.
  • Start of school information was shared. The buildings will be open beginning July 27, with new students enrolling July 31 and Aug. 3. Returning students will register Aug. 3, 4, and 5. New teacher orientation will be Aug. 10.  Aug. 11 will be the opening day meeting and Aug. 12 will be the first day for students.

The board approved the following overnight field trips:

  • High school cheer coach Jennifer Goodman submitted an overnight field trip request to attend cheer camp at Ball State University July 23- 26.
  • Middle/high school choir teacher Patrick Schuttrow and middle/high school band teacher Elaina Sutton submitted a field trip request to travel to New York City in June of 2016.

Board Comment:  Sandy Haselby was commended for her years for service. New employees were welcomed. Mrs. Johnston shared information from the Grassroots Meeting she attended. She shared what the group is focusing on for the next legislative session. Touring the facilities was discussed.

 

Local News Briefs

Stop signs to be added to two county intersections

The Pulaski County Highway Department will add stop signs Monday (April 28) to two county road intersections – one in southeast Rich Grove Township, and the second in northwest Monroe Township.

The new stop signs were approved April 14 in an ordinance adopted by the county commissioners.

Pulaski County Economic Development Summit April 29

The annual Pulaski County Economic Development Summit is set for 6 p.m., Tuesday, April 29, at the Knights of Columbus hall, Winamac. The event is hosted by the Pulaski County Community Development Commission.

The keynote speaker will be Stephanie Wells, president of the Indiana Fiscal Policy Institute. The program will also feature the annual “State of the County Economy” address by CDC executive director Nathan Origer.

PMH seeks community input identifying health needs of local communities

Survey deadline May 17

WINAMAC - Pulaski Memorial Hospital has announced the launch of its 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment, a comprehensive initiative aimed at identifying and addressing the most pressing health needs of our local communities.

“Community feedback is essential” said Hospital CEO Steve Jarosinski. ”PMH will be gathering input from residents, local organizations, community leaders, and even other area healthcare professionals to better understand the health challenges and opportunities across the region.”

PCPL lists programs, activities for April

The Pulaski County Public Library has listed its programs and activities for April. They include a celebration of National Library Week, a kids’ caring for the environment program, a Ladybug Welcome Sign craft, and an Earth Day craft.

For more information on any program, call the library at 574-946-3432 or visit the library’s website at www.pulaskicounty.lib.in.us.

PCT invites photographers to capture spirit of county in photo contest

Participate, share perspective on county

Pulaski County Tribe (PCT) has announced the launch of the "Embrace the Pace Pulaski County" photography contest, inviting photographers of all ages and skill levels to showcase life in Pulaski County through the lens of their cameras.

“With cash prizes and the opportunity to have your work displayed county-wide, this contest is an exciting way to celebrate the beauty and community of Pulaski County,” said Brandi Larkin, PCT president.

 

Indiana News

Indiana State Parks offer free admission May 4 for ‘Welcome Weekend’

INDIANAPOLIS - Celebrate the start of the outdoor recreation season with free admission to all Indiana State Parks properties Sunday, May 4, the second day of “Welcome Weekend” and the opening day of Visit Indiana Week.

Find an Indiana State Parks property and what’s new there at on.IN.gov/stateparks. If you’ve never visited, on.IN.gov/dnr-welcome offers helpful tips. 

Braun signs package of executive orders to ‘Make Indiana Healthy Again’

INDIANAPOLIS (April 15) – Gov. Mike Braun Tuesday signed a landmark package of executive orders with initiatives to improve Indiana’s health and well-being.

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz were in attendance to support Indiana’s initiative. Indiana now joins a number of states that have embraced, through legislation or executive orders, Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement.

2025 Indiana General Assembly: Bill Watch

Members of the Indiana General Assembly are working through proposed legislation on such topics such as education, health care, housing, property tax reform, responsible management of water resources, and much more. Gov. Mike Braun has now begun the process of signing passed legislation into law.

The 2025 legislative session runs January through April 29. This is a “long session” during which legislators will craft a two-year state budget. The status of bills under consideration, in both the House and Senate, may be viewed here: IGA | Bills for 2025 Session.  

 

Indiana Health News

Measles cases climb to 800 nationwide; 8 in Indiana

Also: respiratory illness updates

INDIANAPOLIS (April 21) — The Indiana Department of Health is investigating an outbreak of measles and working with local health officials to help stop the spread of infection. The current reported cases are connected to each other but at this time there are no known links to outbreaks in other states.

Eight cases have been reported in the Indiana, all in Allen County.

 

Post News

Pulaski Superior Court appears saved

INDIANAPOLIS (April 24) – Pulaski Superior Court and seven other rural courts have been spared from closure, following revisions made to HB1144 approved by both the state house and senate Thursday evening in the Indiana General Assembly.

The legislation is now pending the approval of Gov. Mike Braun.

Community Foundation awards $15,000 in grants

The Community Foundation of Pulaski County (CFoPC) has announced $15,000 has been awarded in grants to local nonprofits and community organizations.

The following projects and organizations have received funding:

  • $5,000 to Pulaski County Historical Society – “We’re Moving!”
  • $10,000 to Pulaski Memorial Hospital – for a Community Health Worker

Chamber presents Don, Lynn Darda with 2025 Halleck Award

The Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce presented the 2025 Halleck Community Service Award to Don and Lynn Darda of Winamac at its annual award banquet Thursday evening (April 24), at the Winamac VFW.

The Dardas are both retired teachers in the Winamac schools and have been enthusiastic volunteers in a variety of projects throughout the years. 

Alliance Junior Board visits BraunAbility

The Alliance Bank Junior Board of Directors had the opportunity to visit BraunAbility in Winamac in April.

During their visit, the student directors were given a presentation about the company and had the chance to ask questions. They also had a tour of the facility, which allowed them to see the manufacturing process of vehicles equipped to assist individuals with disabilities.

Jury finds Monterey man guilty of attempted murder 

WINAMAC – A Pulaski County Circuit Court jury has found a Monterey man guilty of attempted murder in connection with a July 3, 2023 shooting in downtown Monterey.

Kenneth D. Ketcahm, 41, was also convicted on additional charges of criminal recklessness and pointing a firearm. The verdict was returned Monday (April 14).

Fatal crash on U.S. 421 under Investigation

MEDARYVILLE (April 15) – The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a crash which claimed the life of a Porter County man Tuesday on U.S 421 near the intersection of CR 800N in Cass Township.

The crash involved a dump truck and minivan. Release of the identity of the deceased minivan driver is pending the notification of family.