Southwest Allen County Schools board approves contract for Dr. Joshua Saint John; several procurement and stipend measures pass

The Southwest Allen County Schools Board of School Trustees voted to approve a contract naming Dr. Joshua Saint John as the district’s next superintendent during a regular meeting, board members said.

Dr. Joshua Saint John, the superintendent-designate, told trustees he is “committed to a simple vision. I want our students to say, I love coming to school here. I want our staff to say, I feel supported and I love working here,” remarks he gave after the board motioned to accept his contract.

Why it matters: The vote concludes the board’s search and begins a leadership transition from current superintendent Dr. DeConnick, who the board thanked during the public portion of the meeting. The board also used the session to approve several budgeted purchases and a state-funded stipend, actions that will move forward before Saint John assumes day-to-day responsibilities.

What the board approved at the meeting (votes at a glance): - Consent agenda (minutes of 02/18/2025, bills, claims, payrolls and personnel recommendations): adopted; a trustee abstained specifically from the claims portion prior to the vote. The motion was moved and seconded and the board said “aye.” - Contract to hire Dr. Joshua Saint John as superintendent: motion moved and seconded; the board voted in favor and the motion passed. - Coop purchase for stadium lighting from Musco Lighting (Sourcewell cooperative): the board approved the purchase; the presenter described the total as “just under $470,000.” - Installation bid from Kissinger Electric for athletic lighting: the board approved the lowest bid at $228,000; the presenter said it was the only bid received but “in line with the budget.” - Early literacy grant stipends for K–3 teachers and assistants: approved; the stipend calculation presented was $386.50 per eligible staff member and the presenter said it would be issued on the March 20 payroll.

Board discussion: Trustees who spoke praised Dr. Saint John’s background and work with staff and curriculum selection. Dr. DeConnick was recognized for his service during the transition year. No board member recorded an opposed vote on the superintendent contract; the meeting record shows the motion was moved, seconded and approved.

What was not decided: Several agenda items were discussion-only and will return for formal approval at a future meeting, including an amendment to the bus replacement plan (see separate article).

The meeting concluded with trustees thanking students and staff who presented earlier in the evening and with a short adjournment.