He had previously met with athletic director Bill Ball, and varsity softball coach Jenny Belcher to discuss the possibility, and they think it could work. Other schools – North Miami, Logansport, Lewis Cass, Pioneer, and Rochester, either already have a program or are strongly considering it. Coach Belcher felt that 6-7 students from each grade (7th and 8th) would participate. Foster believes it will not take away from the middle school track program. After discussion, the board approved the program as presented.

In other business, Foster said that after looking at the cost of contracting services for lawn care, it is more feasible to purchase a new mower. He proposed purchasing a 72” deck diesel mower from Greenmark. He also proposed keeping the existing mower for snow removal and other jobs. The new mower is slightly higher in cost than another quote, but Greenmark does provide the school a Gator to use at no charge for athletics/maintenance. After discussion, the board approved the purchase as presented.

Foster requested, after purchasing a newer truck, to declare the existing 1993 Dodge truck as surplus/junk and to dispose of it properly. This truck has transmission and brake problems, along with needed body work. After discussion, the board voted to declare the truck as surplus/junk and to dispose of it

The superintendent gave a legislative update: the "Every Student Succeeds Act" was highlighted from the federal level. And at the state level, he stated that in 2017 ISTEP will be gone, but it is not certain what assessment will take the place of ISTEP.

The school's mid-1990’s building project building corporation has been dissolved and ownership transferred back to EPCS. Renovations with the current project continue – the middle school office area renovation will take place over spring break, and the elementary school and high school have switched to the next phase; restrooms by the gym and interior classroom work will begin.

Foster reported that because the school board allowed a switch of banks to 1st Source Bank, the school corporation is now earning interest on its account.

Foster gave a financial report for the period ending Feb. 29. All funds had positive balances. The superintendent answered questions about claims. After discussion, the board approved all claims as presented.

Bus driver Pam Wank  submitted her resignation due to personal reasons. Bus driver Janet Graham submitted her resignation for the purpose of retirement. Mrs. Graham has 19 years of service as a bus driver and also served as an instructional assistant.

Jeannette Smith was recommended for a bus driving position. Most recently she was employed with Culver Schools. After discussion, the board accepted the requests and recommendation as submitted.

Middle school teacher and Science Olympiad sponsor Steve Slaven submitted an overnight trip request to take the middle school Science Olympiad Team to state competition. The team earned fourth place at regional competition earning them state competition placing. After discussion, approved the trip as submitted.

The first reading on School Board Policy Section 612, Free and Reduced Lunch Second Audit, and Section 613, Fixed Asset Capitalization was presented for discussion at the last meeting. Foster presented the policies for final approval. After discussion, the board voted to approve the policies as presented.

Principal Reports:

Elementary school principal Jill Collins reported that ISTEP was wrapped up last week, along with iRead 3. Last Friday afternoon there were relay races to celebrate the completion. Ecology Camp is underway this spring. Family Movie Night and Kindergarten Roundup are quickly approaching. Running Club has 75 students working to run their first 5K.

Middle school principal Ryan Dickinson reported that students have finished ISTEP. Ice Cream treats will be given out this Friday for those who qualify. Science Olympiad finished fourth in regional, qualifying them for state. Winter sports have come to an end with many successful teams. A Band/Choir Concert was held March 7. Feb. 27 was Circle the State with Song, March 11 was a dance sponsored by Student Council, and March 14 was a convocation, “Quest for Respect.”

High school principal Rick DeFries reported that ISTEP is complete, along with End of Course Assessments. Spring sports are beginning and a Bi-County (Winamac, Caston, and Rochester) Choral Festival is March 14 in the auditorium. Kyle Collins and Ashley Grubbs reported on the Alliance Bank Junior Board of Directors – what they are doing and fund raising opportunities.

During board comment, Mrs. Wank and Mrs. Graham were thanked for their service. Mrs. Smith was welcomed. Alliance Bank was commended for working with the community youth. Coaches were thanked for donating their time for Champ Club and the new softball program was commended.