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District spotlights educators of the year, showcases stadium renovations and reports clean audit
Summary
The board recognized educator award winners, viewed drone footage of Wright Bowl and Ingold Stadium renovations (with ADA upgrades), heard that New Tech’s robotics team won a spirit award, and was told by Dr. Underwood that an independent audit found no significant deficiencies or findings.
The Evansville Vanderburgh School Board paused for a district spotlight that highlighted educator awards, student success and major facilities upgrades.
Dr. Hoover introduced the winners: Maren Smith, named high school teacher of the year from North High School, and Andy Freeman, principal of the year from Central High School; Holly Carey was named elementary teacher of the year but was unable to attend. Maren Smith told the board the recognition "means a lot" after 20 years in education and said that the work that matters is often "the small things"—a student finally understanding a concept or a quick conversation in the hallway. Andy Freeman described his 22 years in education and said the most important elements are the students, their families and supporting teachers so they can succeed.
Staff showed drone footage of renovation work underway at the historic Wright Bowl and at Ingold Stadium at Bosse High School, noting new aluminum seating, accessible platforms, and fully ADA-compliant restrooms and concession areas beneath the stadium. Staff told the board that the projects are on an accelerated schedule ahead of commencements but that contingency plans remain in place in the event of adverse weather.
The board also heard that New Tech qualified for its fourth consecutive robotics state competition and won a team-spirit award, and that Robin Muter of the business office was named the Indiana Association of School Business Officials Region 9 School Business Official of the Year.
Dr. Underwood delivered financial updates and announced that Forvis Mazars completed the audit of financial statements and federal awards with "no significant deficiencies, no material weaknesses, and no findings to report," which the superintendent presented as an affirmation of the district's financial systems.
Tony Abbott of the office of early learning presented proposed pre-K parent pay rates and said the office will return with finalized sites and rates at the next meeting. Board members asked whether the program covers three- and four-year-olds and raised concerns about affordability; staff emphasized the program's purpose in supporting kindergarten readiness.
Students from several schools introduced themselves at the microphone before the meeting adjourned.
