Meeting Details
April 13, 2026
7:00pm - 8:30pm
1 hr 30 min
Mt. Vernon Administrative Service Center
Purpose
N/A
1.
Pledge of Allegiance (7:00 PM)
Minutes
Mrs. Walls led the Pledge of Allegiance.
2.
Call to Order
Minutes
Mrs Walls called the meeting to order at 7pm
3.
Adoption of Agenda
Minutes
Mrs Freeman motion to approve the agenda. Mrs Britt second the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
4.
Public Comments Regarding Agenda Items
- At this time, we will move into the public comment portion of the meeting. The Board values hearing from our community and appreciates your willingness to share your perspectives.
- We ask that all speakers follow Board policy by keeping comments respectful, focused on the topic submitted, and free of personal attacks or references to specific individuals.
- Please remember that this is a public meeting, and we are unable to respond to comments during this time, but we will take all feedback under consideration.
- If comments become disruptive or do not follow these expectations, I may need to redirect or conclude the speaker’s time. Thank you for your cooperation.
Please Reference Policies
H225 (Public Comments and Concerns) and
B225 (Meetings) for guidance on providing public input on an agenda item.
Board policies can be found at www.mvcsc.k12.in.us
Minutes
Candy Early
12110 Valleybrook Ct
Indianapolis, IN 46229
Candy Early, Treasurer of the Mt. Vernon Band Booster Organization, spoke regarding concerns about governance, financial controls, and oversight within the organization, referencing documentation previously submitted to the board. She questioned the independence and thoroughness of an internal review related to these concerns. Ms. Early also noted potential implications involving the use of the school’s name, resources, and staff involvement with affiliated organizations. She emphasized the need for clear staff roles, accountability, and protections, and clarified that she was not asking the board to manage the organization but to ensure appropriate safeguards are in place.
Brandy Burt
1129 Portalan Dr
Greenfield, IN 46140
Brandy Burt, President of the High School Band Boosters, spoke in support of the band program, highlighting student growth, participation, and achievement. She emphasized the program’s positive impact, ongoing growth, and commitment to accountability and continuous improvement. Ms. Bird noted the importance of maintaining strong partnerships with school leadership while operating as an independent nonprofit, and encouraged continued focus on supporting students and strengthening the program.
Michelle Tooke
6659 W Del Rio Drive
McCordsville, In 46055
Ms Tooke expressed support for previously raised concerns regarding governance and oversight within the band boosters organization. She noted issues with board representation in prior discussions and referenced turnover in treasurer positions. The speaker raised concerns about leadership, transparency, rising program fees, and lack of clear financial communication. Additional concerns included declining fundraising performance and the need for stronger direction, accountability, and support for program leadership, with an emphasis on measurable outcomes and program growth.
Cristy Stiff
1021 W 900 North
Fortville, In 46040
Ms Stiff highlighted her extensive experience in music programs and volunteer roles, including fundraising and coordination. She expressed concerns regarding leadership, transparency, rising program fees, and unclear financial communication. Additional concerns included increased staffing costs, declining fundraising performance, and a lack of clear direction. She stressed the need for stronger leadership, accountability, and a focus on measurable program outcomes and growth.
Ashley Benson
419 Woodland West Drive
Greenfield, IN 46140
Ms Benson as former Treasurer of the band booster organization shared her long-term involvement in music programs and the band boosters, including volunteer and advisory roles. She expressed support for previously stated concerns and raised issues related to leadership, transparency, rising program fees, and declining fundraising performance. Ms Benson expressed the need for clearer financial communication, stronger direction, and accountability within the program. She also noted a lack of communication and follow-up from leadership despite offering assistance and support, and encouraged a focus on measurable outcomes and program growth.
5.
Reports
5.1
Special Recognition - MVHS Boys Basketball State Championship Team
Minutes
Dr. Parker introduced coach Joe Bradburn. Coach Bradburn thanked the board and the administrative staff for their support.
Coach Bradburn summarized the teams achievements this year as follows:
- Runner-up at the Hall of Fame tournament.
- Homestead Tournament Champions.
- HHC Championship winners (7-0).
- Back-to-back sectional and regional championships.
- The school's first-ever Class 4A state championship
- National rankings that include #18 MaxPreps & #23 in Sports Illustrated
- The Team matched the school records of wins for the season.
He recognized the following individual accomplishments.
- Max Weiss was named a Junior All-Star.
- Brady Webber won the Arthur Trustee Award for academic and athletic excellence.
- Luke Ertel was recognized as Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year, state three-point champion, and Indiana's Mr. Basketball.
Coach Bradbury reflected on the program's development, emphasizing the philosophy of roles and how each player did their part. He praised the seniors' leadership and the team's daily commitment and mutual support. It was a dream season and players to coach. He thanked the parents, coaching staff and the community for all their support.
Mrs Walls congratulations the coaches and players and thanked them for being a great example of what a Marauder truly is. The board congratulated all and stated how proud they were of the team.
5.2
Booster Organizations
Minutes
Dr. Parker provide gave an update on a recent booster organization meeting attended by representatives from 12 groups and 42 board members. The meeting included guidance on board policies, oversight of 501(c)(3) compliance, and available resources for fundraising, branding, field trips, wellness, and background checks. It was noted that this was the first collaborative meeting of its kind, with plans to continue annually, likely in late summer to align with leadership transitions.
5.3
Good News Report
Minutes
Mrs Bond shared the good news report.
School Accolades & Notable Activities
Congratulations to MVCSC Board member Shannon Walls on receiving Exemplary recognition from the Indiana School Board Association. Individual awards are based on points accumulated through attendance at ISBA seminars, workshops, conferences, and other learning events. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to the Mt. Vernon school community! Dr. Katz and Dr. Edwards successfully completed the prestigious two-year Indiana Principal Leadership Academy, demonstrating their commitment to professional growth and excellence in school leadership. Congratulations to Brigitte Bussen, who was named the Region 8 School Support Professional of the year for the 2026 Indiana Assoc. School Business Officials. Dylan Freeman received the Champion Educator Award from the IHSAA and Ivy Tech, recognizing his impact in supporting and challenging students. Congratulations to Amber Andres and Lacey Groce on being named the district Teacher of the Year and Staff Member of the Year, respectively. Thank you to the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation for their role in the selection process and for hosting a wonderful evening at the Gala. The greater Mt. Vernon community came together to celebrate MVHS’s first-ever 4A State Championship, a historic milestone for both the school and Hancock County. The overwhelming support was evident through spirited send-offs and strong attendance throughout the tournament. Luke Ertel was named Mr. Basketball, Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year, and won both the State Farm Slam Dunk and 3-Point Championships (high school division) on April 3. Brady Webber received the Arthur L. Trester Mental Attitude Award at the state championship game, recognizing excellence in both academics and athletics. Max Vise was selected to the Indiana Junior All-Star Core 6 and will compete in the Junior-Senior All-Star Game at Mt. Vernon on June 3. Head coach Joe Bradburn was named Indiana All-Stars boys assistant coach. MVHS senior Reesa Ibarra won Best in Show at the Hancock Arts Gallery during Youth Art Month. Twenty-one MVHS choir students advanced to perform at the ISSMA State Vocal Solo and Ensemble Contest. Nineteen students earned Gold ratings. Outstanding Soloist awards were presented to these five students: Hailey Anderson, Isabelle Barnes, Eleanora Wilcox, Guinevere Williams, and Ashlynn Stone. MVHS band members performed at the ISSMA State Solo and Ensemble Contest, earning all Gold ratings and one Silver. Congratulations to all students who performed at the state level. Saxophone Choir - Gold Lottes Sax Quartet - Gold Bentson Sax Quartet - Gold Clarinet Choir - Gold w/distinction Trumpet Trio - Silver Brass Quintet - Gold Colin Smith - Gold w/distinction Grant Smith - Gold James Wilson - Gold w/distinction Grayson Boyer - Gold w/distinction Connor Laratta - Gold w/distinction Aiden Stiff - Gold w/distinction Sophie Bentson - Gold Declan Worl - Gold w/distinction Both the MVHS Jazz Lab and Jazz Ensemble performed at the ISSMA Jazz Festival, with both groups earning Gold ratings. Several students—Natalee Matta, Connor Laratta, Grayson Boyer, Aiden Stiff, Wesley Draves, Liam Neeson, and Declan Worl—received Outstanding Soloist Awards. Nineteen students also earned Gold ratings. The Mt. Vernon FCCLA Chapter had an outstanding experience at the 2026 Indiana FCCLA State Leadership Conference, earning bronze, silver, and gold medals across multiple STAR events and state projects. Focus on Children: Bronze - Annie Sickafoose and Bianka Munoz Silver - Sophie Benton & Amilia Daniels Nutrition & Wellness: Silver - Reagan Randall (National Qualifier) Sports Nutrition: Gold - Kristyn Filsaime (National Qualifier) Public Policy Advocacy: Silver - Amelia Champion & Esly Nino State Projects: Marla Villard - Gold in Lesson Planning Madeline Wilson - Gold in Career Exploration Kadence Poole - Silver in Career Exploration Stella Tessano and Maliyah Ruble - Silver in SMILE Students from Mt. Vernon High School and the Hancock County Career Center were honored as the newest inductees into the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS), recognizing excellence in Career and Technical Education. Eleven Criminal Justice students and one CNA student were inducted based on their skill development and academic achievement, meeting the rigorous standards required by NTHS.
Community Connections
Jo Goff and Jacob Kessinger coordinated an engaging mental health conversation at MVHS in collaboration with Anthem and the Indy Fuel. NineStar Operation Round Up awarded Fortville Elementary $2,280 in the first quarter of 2026 to support registration fees for Camp Invention, a summer program focused on STEM learning. Mt. Comfort Elementary donated 448 pairs of gently used shoes to the “No Cold Feet” contest, sponsored by Recycle Hancock County and benefiting Changing Footprints, a local nonprofit that provides shoes at no cost to those in need. Fortville Elementary fourth graders participated in the 500 Festival Education Program, exploring race cars, engaging in hands-on activities, and learning about the cultural impact of the Indy 500 in Indiana. Mini-Marauder Preschool celebrated Grandparents Day with a book fair, a photo booth, and crafts to enjoy together. MVCSC hosted a Cyber Safety: Connect & Protect event to help educate parents on how to keep their children safe online. Many businesses, including FoxGardin and Mornings, provided a meal for our MVHS basketball team to fuel them for success! The team was also recognized at an Indiana Pacers game
Noteworthy Media
Luke Ertel and Coach Joe Bradburn were featured on IndyStar’s Talkin’ Hoops Episode 5, as well as on WISH-TV's Zone Extra, with additional national recognition for Ertel from Sports Illustrated and Yahoo. MVCSC's Cyber Safety: Connect & Protect event was highlighted in a segment on WISH TV. Both Mrs. Heidi Kensinger’s selection for the Lilly Endowment Teacher Creativity Fellowship, along with Fortville Elementary's focus on ILEARN & IREAD, were featured in Ball State University’s CPN Synergy April newsletter.
5.4
Spotlight on Schools: Special Programs
Minutes
Dr. Jack Parker introduced Mrs Ashley Ridenour, Assistant Principal of Special Programs. Mrs Ridenour updated the board on the four programs housed in the administration building that she oversees.
The Life Center Program served 25 students in the first semester and has exceeded second-semester goals to date, with 108 credits earned and seven weeks remaining. Volunteer opportunities have expanded to include preschool and custodial support to help students meet diploma requirements, with plans to add technology-related options. The program, led by Mr. Fountain at 10–15 hours per week, has already seen some students graduate mid-year. Additional efforts include bringing in guest speakers to highlight diverse career paths beyond a four-year degree, as well as focusing on resume building and mock interviews to prepare students for the workforce.
The Core Program has seen two students successfully transition back to their home school, with another student making progress towards the same goal. A key focus this year has been increasing daily communication with families. The program has also implemented structured morning meetings and skill-building time, tailored to both individual and group strengths. Additionally, mentorship opportunities have been established, including partnerships with Mr. Hamilton for a student interested in 3D printing and with Dr. Shipley.
The preschool program has experienced significant growth along with notable facility enhancements. The preschool program now serves 126 students across eight classrooms, with a strong focus on family communication and supporting students with diverse learning needs, who make up approximately 46% of enrollment. Enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year is already strong, with 100 students registered and additional families transitioning from First Steps. Facility improvements include the creation of a multipurpose room for structured physical and STEM activities and ongoing development of an outdoor courtyard learning space.
The birth-to-two program, launched in January, has grown from three to nine children and continues to expand, with its dedicated playground nearing completion.
The board thanked her for her updates and she shared her appreciate for their support.
5.5
Request for Expression of Interest
Minutes
CFO Greg Elkins presented a speculative, forward-looking framework for future property acquisition through public-private partnerships, developed in collaboration with attorney Matt Skelton. The proposal is not tied to a specific project but addresses the growing challenge of land acquisition due to limited availability and rising costs. The open space acquisition concept is intended to invite transparent discussions with developers while maintaining board oversight, positioning the district as a proactive partner in community growth. Potential development areas include land south of the interstate and north of the railroad tracks. The approach reflects a shift toward innovative strategies in a rapidly growing community, with expectations of positive developer interest given the district’s strong reputation. Initial discussion also highlighted interest in community-centered development concepts and noted that any exploration remains speculative with no established timeline.
5.6
Student Fees
Minutes
Dr. Shipley presented information on the 2026-27 consumable fees. The board reviewed the proposal to reinstate consumable fees for the 2026–2027 school year. While the state now covers textbook rental costs, the proposed fees would apply to additional consumable materials that enhance the curriculum. Draft fee structures were presented for all school levels, with some increases in consumable costs but an overall reduction due to the elimination of textbook rental fees. A formal request for approval will be presented at the next meeting.
5.7
Peru Trip Report
Minutes
Dr. Shipley invited Margarita Dwyer, MVHS Spanish Teacher to talk about a trip request. She gave a brief description of her background. She teached Spanished 3 and have asked to explore South America to be able to learn language and explore the culture. The trip is organized by Insiders Peru through Worldstrides. They offer a hands on experience and classes for the students to be interactive. She reviewed information from other Spanish teachers and 92% liked their experiences, value, tour directory and safety information. The trip will be from June 14 to June 23, 2027 The cities that they would visit were reviewed. Rich in culture and experiences. Daily information and tours were listed. Transportation, accomodations, food and entrance fees are all included and discussed.
6.
Public Hearing for Additional Appropriation
NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS OF ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATIONS
Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, Hancock County, Indiana, that the proper legal officers will consider the following additional appropriations in excess of the budget for the current year at their regular meeting place at Administrative Building Board Room, 1806 W State Road 234 Fortville , IN 46040 at 7:00 o'clock p.m. on the 13th day of April, 2026.
Fund Name: DEBT SERVICE Amount Requested: $254,289.72
Major Budget Classification:
10000 Instruction $ 0
20000 Support Services $ 0
30000 Community Services $ 0
40000 Nonprogrammed Charges $ 254,289.72
50000 Debt Services $ 0
TOTAL for DEBT SERVICE Fund: $ 254,289.72
Taxpayers appearing at the meeting shall have a right to be heard. The additional appropriations as finally made will be referred to the Department of Local Government Finance (Department). The Department will make a written determination as to the sufficiency of funds to support the appropriations within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a Certified Copy of the action taken.
Dated: March 30-2026
Greg Elkins (Fiscal Officer)
Minutes
Mrs. Walls opened the public hearing at 8:21pm . Mr. Greg Elkins presented the additional appropriation information.
No One Commented. The public hearing was closed at 8:22pm
7.
Consent Agenda
Minutes
Mrs Walls reviewed the consent agenda. Mr. Gray made a motion to approve as presented. Mrs Nielsen seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0
7.1
Regular Session Minutes
7.2
Personnel Report
Minutes
CERTIFIED RECOMMENDATIONS
Jeanette Craw, HC3 CTE Coordinator
Mariah Scruggs, MVHS English Teacher 1.25 FTE (April 6 - May 29, 2026)
Amanda Armstrong, MVHS English Teacher 1.25 FTE (April 6 - May 29, 2026)
Lauren Duffy, MVHS English Teacher 1.25 FTE (April 6 - May 29, 2026)
Nancy Newton, MVCSC Secondary CORE 53 Teacher
Toiya Smith, MCE Temporary Kindergarten Teacher
Heather Henderson, MVMS Science Teacher
Steve Reinke, MVMS Science Teacher
CERTIFIED CHANGE OF ASSIGNMENT
Joseph Thatcher, MVHS Perm Building Sub to MVMS Social Studies Teacher
Jeff Crague, MVMS 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher to 7th/8th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Krissy Monagle, MVMS 8th Grade Science Teacher to MVMS Business Teacher
Melissa Breidenbach, MVMS Math Specialist to MVMS Resource Teacher
CERTIFIED RESIGNATIONS
Lisa Terrell, MVHS English Teacher
Krista Rice, MES Resource Teacher
Jason Wiley, MVHS Welding Teacher
Deborah Thomas, MVMS 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher (Retirement)
CLASSIFIED RECOMMENDATIONS
Amber Dowling, MVIS Permanent Building Substitute
Emily Goble, MVIS Instructional Assistant
Janet Nicholson-Murray, MVCSC Transportation Non CDL Driver & Trainee
Kristofor Ross, MVCSC Transportation Trainee
Michael Beattie, MVCSC Transportation Trainee
Katherine Crowe, MVCSC Food Service Substitute
Mackenzie Moore, MVCSC Communications CE Intern
Jamia Tunstill, Temporary Summer Custodian
Hannah Baldwin, Temporary Summer Maintenance
Luke Shelton, Temporary Summer Maintenance
Alexis Shelton, Temporary Summer Maintenance
Tara Forster, MVCSC Data Assistant
CLASSIFIED CHANGE OF ASSIGNMENT
Kelly Fleming, Tier II Secretary to Tier I Administrative Assistant
Cindy (Roach) Atkinson, Tier II Secretary to Tier I Administrative Assistant
Zach Roach, Hourly Maintenance to Salaried Maintenance
Sharika Fowler, MVCSC Bus Driver to Bus Driver Substitute
Storme Torrence, MVCSC Bus Driver Substitute to Permanent Substitute Driver
CLASSIFIED RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS
Edward Childress, MVMS High Intensity IA
Haley Baldwin, MMP IA
Lori Barnett, MCE IA (Retirement)
Aaron Martin, MVHS Aviation Adjunct Teacher
Kylah Stout, MMP IA
Brayden Stamm, MVMS Permanent Building Substitute
Madalyn Moore, MCE High Intensity IA
Verenice Flores, MCE High Intensity IA
Chloe Tyndall, MCE Media Assistant IA
Danae Kendrex, FES IA
Tessa Globerger, MES IA
Toshio Mills, MVHS IA (Retirement)
ECA RECOMMENDATIONS
Dugan Wetzel, MVMS 7th Grade Baseball Volunteer Coach
Chad Huff, MVMS 7th Grade Baseball Volunteer Coach
2025-26 MVHS Dual Credit Credentialed Teachers
Kristee Aldora, MVMS 7th Grade Softball Coach
Wayne Graham, MVHS Volunteer Baseball Assistant
Jeremy Budreau, MVMS Volunteer 8th Grade Softball Coach
ECA CHANGE OF ASSIGNMENT
Scott Blanchard, MVHS JV Baseball Coach Volunteer to Tier 6
ECA RESIGNATIONS
Joe Schaeffer, MVHS JV Baseball Coach
Randal Hayes, MVHS Wrestling Coach
LEAVES
Dianne Grannan, MCE SPED Teacher (April 6, 2026 - April 17, 2026)
Katherine Spain, FES Food Service (April 6, 2026 - April 17, 2026)
Casey Albright, MCE 4th Grade Teacher ((April 16, 2026 - May 15, 2026)
Katerina Dixon, MCE 2nd Grade Teacher (June 16, 2026 - September 7, 2026)
Pamela Myers, MVCSC Transportation Driver (Intermittent - March 30, 2026 - March 29, 2027)
Diane Rafer, MES Custodian (March 23, 2026 - April 3, 2026)
Mike Depew, MVCSC Transportation Driver (Intermittent - March 30, 2026 - March 29, 2027)
Brad King MVHS Dean of Students (Intermittent - August 27, 2025 - August 26, 2026)
7.3
Claims
7.4
Construction Claims
7.5
Construction Change Orders
Insley Roofing (FINAL) - New FES
West Electric (FINAL) - New FES
7.6
Monthly Fund Transfers
7.7
Overnight Field Trip Request
7.8
Donation Approval
Minutes
Thank you to all our wonderful donors.
7.9
Professional Services
8.
Action Items
8.1
2026-2027 Food2School Purchasing Cooperative Contract
Minutes
Mr Elkins requested the annual renewal for the Food Services purchasing contract. Mrs. Freeman made a motion to accept the contract. Mrs. Britt seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
8.2
Resolution 2026-08 Additional Appropriation
Minutes
Mr. Elkins asked for approval of appropriation resolution 2026-08. Mrs. Nielsen made a motion to approve resolution 2026-08. Mr. Gray seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0
8.3
Resolution 2026-09 Authorizing a Request for a New School Number for HC3
Minutes
Mr.Smedley presented Resolution 2026-09 to authorize a new school number for the HC3 career center program. Mrs Britt made a motion to authorize resolution 2026-09. Mrs. Freeman seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
9.
Board Member Reports
Fortville RDC - Mrs. Stacy Nielsen
Cumberland RDC - Mrs. Kellie Freeman
Hancock Co. RDC - Mr. Chad Gray
McCordsville RDC - Mrs. Shannon Walls
MVEF - Mrs. Meghan Britt
Minutes
Fortville RDC - Mrs. Stacy Nielsen - Mrs. Nielsen attended but no information was reviewed pertaining to the schools.
Cumberland RDC - Mrs. Kellie Freeman - Mrs. Freeman attended but only annual review information was discussed.
Hancock Co. RDC - Mr. Chad Gray - Mr Gray he reviewed information that the HEDC discussed for the adult education that will take place at Amplify.
McCordsville RDC - Mrs. Shannon Walls - Mrs. Wall stated they did not meet.
MVEF - Mrs. Meghan Britt - Mrs. Brill has been unable to attend the meetings due to board meeting overlapping. She commented on the fantastic job they did on the Gala.
10.
Announcements
Minutes
Dr. Parker shared the following announcements.
- Kindergarten Roundup: April 15th from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM at all elementary schools. This event is critical for estimating class sizes for the following year.
- High School Theater Production: "The Wizard of Oz" will run from Thursday, the 16th, through the 19th.
- Early Voting Site: Mt Vernon Middle School will serve as a voting site from April 20th to May 1st.
- Annual County Art Show: April 23rd and 24th at Mount Hermon High School, before 8 PM.
- Mt Vernon Education Foundation Hope Awards: April 26th.
- National Principals Day: May 1st.
- Staff Appreciation: May 4th through May 14th. The administration will be cooking on the grill for all staff.
11.
Adjournment
Minutes
Mrs. Britt made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mrs. Freeman seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0. Meeting adjourned at 8:31pm
