Reappointments were approved for corporation treasurer Shannon Fritz, corporation assistant treasurer/human resources Chassidy Leman, extra-curricular treasurer Casie Allen and school corporation attorney Edward Dumas.

The school board members filled out annual conflict-of-interest forms as required by law.

Superintendent Dan Zylstra reported on the following:

• The district is looking for a new food service director. The district is receiving applications, but is also exploring different options to meet the cafeteria’s needs.
• The board is in the process of a district-wide HVAC and energy evaluation and will form a subcommittee to explore the most cost-effective and long-term solutions in light of the age and type of equipment and overall energy usage.
• Health teacher and softball coach Brain Pilarski worked to secure a significant amount of grant funding and in-kind donations to build a new softball press box. The district will cover the remaining costs to make the project a reality.
• A group of local churches is exploring the possibility of a religious instruction pull-out program for West Central students. More information will be forthcoming as plans develop.
• The newest COVID-19 relief bill did not include an extension of paid time off for COVID-19 related reasons. The board discussed the pros and cons of adding more paid time off. More information about the bill is forthcoming. Since the days can be provided retroactively if a pay is subsequently approved, the board will seek further guidance before making a decision.

Personnel

The board accepted the resignations of the following staff:

• Shellie Patton - Cafeteria
• Jessica Murray - Cafeteria Director

Approval was given to employ the following:

• Mackenna VanderTuin - Kindergarten Teacher
• Michaela Cook - Second Grade Maternity Leave

In other business, the board approved the transfer of $50,000 from its rainy day fund to the education dund.

The board voted to approve the increase in non-certified pay as presented

Principal reports

Elementary school principal Mike Carlsonreported the school had a smooth and uneventful ending to the first semester. Benchmark tests in reading and math were given.

Carlson said it was exciting to welcome new staff members this week.

Mandatory tutoring will begin for sixth grade students that are failing or falling behind on assignments. This will also be on Thursdays after school with the current Study Tables.

The elementary school is working to get a date secured for Kindergarten Round Up and materials ordered. The goal is to be able to hold this in-person with a traditional format.

The process is beginning on researching a new social studies curriculum for next year.

There wasn’t interest in an elementary choir at the beginning of school, but information has been sent out to hopefully get one put together this semester.

Middle/high school principal Scott Ritchiereported that the middle school had a carnival that was organized by Sara Strus, and it was a huge community success. There was a rock wall, bounce houses, games, food and many great activities. There was also a fantastic staff dinner for the corporation that seemed to be well received.

Garrett Leman was recognized as a Colts Academic All-Star. Normally this would be recognized at a Colts game but will be virtual this year.

Mrs.Johns’ Health Careers Program was recognized as the premiere CTE program through the Indian Trails Co-op. They will go to a state competition later this year.

A celebration is being planned for the high school becoming an “A” school.

Board of Finance Committee

The Board of Finance Committee of the West Central School Corporation met before the regular school board meeting for its annual organizational meeting.

Shannon Fritz gave the oath of office to Jonathan Gutwein, Amanda Sharpe, Dennis Gutwein and Jake Tanner.

Mandy Sharpe was elected president of the Board of Finance. Jake Tanner was elected secretary. Shannon Fritz, treasurer, was designated as the investing officer.

The board voted to designate Lake City Bank, Medaryville Branch, and Alliance Bank, Francesville Branch, as depositories for the year.

Superintendent Dan Zylstra reviewed the current accounts, including checking, savings, and certificates of deposit.

Zylstra also reviewed the report of the district’s financial condition, as well as the fiscal and qualitative indicators dashboard as per IC 5-13-7-8.