Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Recognitions topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
New Palestine board honors state champions and praises Assistant Superintendent Katy Eastes on doctorate and departure
Summary
The Southern Hancock County Community School Corporation board recognized multiple state athletic and spirit champions and celebrated Assistant Superintendent Dr. Katy Eastesearning a doctorate and preparing to depart; several staff also received awards from the Indiana Council for Exceptional Children.
At its Feb. 9 meeting, the Southern Hancock County Community School Corporation board recognized student-athletes, coaches and staff for recent state-level achievements and acknowledged Assistant Superintendent Katy Eastes for earning her doctorate and preparing to leave the district.
NPHS Principal Jim Voelz and Athletic Director Brian Murphy presented several recognitions: June Wagner-Gilbert was honored for placing fifth at the IHSAA girls state wrestling finals; the Dragons Cheer Partner Stunt Group was recognized as Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP) cheer state champions and Hoosier Cheer Coaches Association (HCCA) Spirit State champions; Kyle Ralph was acknowledged as the 2025 Indianapolis Colts Coach of the Year; and the NPHS Class 5A football team was recognized for winning the 2025 state championship.
During board member comments, Mrs. Laura Haeberle and Mr. Jon Hooker led congratulations to Assistant Superintendent Katy Eastes on earning her doctorate. Dr. Pleak and other board members praised student performances and athletic success; Dr. Pleak noted the boys' wrestling program earned its first sectional since 2008 and its first regional in school history. Dr. Pleak also announced that five staff members received recognition awards from the Indiana Council for Exceptional Children: Vincent Meo, Mindy Huseman, Jordan Miller, Jen Norton and Hannah Mashino.
Dr. Eastes addressed the board and thanked staff, community and students for her time in the district, saying she had "enjoyed watching our students grow into parents over the 26 years with our school district." Board members wished her well and said she would be missed.
Why it matters
The recognitions highlight the districtextracurricular and instructional achievements that contribute to community identity and morale. Public acknowledgment of staff awards and the assistant superintendentearning a doctorate underscores leadership transitions that the board and community will follow as the district fills administrative roles.
The meeting concluded after adjournment procedures and routine votes.
