South Vermillion school board approves 2026–27 handbooks, 2% pay increase and personnel appointments

The South Vermillion Community School Corporation board on June 2026 approved a package of routine but consequential items for the 2026–27 school year, including student and staff handbooks, a 2% pay increase for classified employees, new dual-credit courses and a personnel appointment for food services.

The board approved the 2026–27 student handbooks for elementary, middle and high schools and separate handbooks for classified employees, school bus drivers, and high-school athletics and coaches. Dr. Williams introduced those items and noted the classified handbook includes a 2% pay increase for classified staff effective July 1, 2026 for year‑round employees and on the first paycheck of the 2026–27 school year for school‑year employees. The board approved the handbook package and the raise by voice vote.

Several instructional and operational items were approved with little discussion. The board adopted Board Policy Volume 38, Number 2 on second reading, approved new dual‑credit classes and pathways at the high school (implementation depends on staffing and student interest), and authorized the final phase of a district copier replacement purchase agreement.

On personnel, Dr. Williams reported the resignation of Amanda Myers as food services director effective at the end of the summer food program and recommended Rhonda Foster as her replacement for 2026–27, noting Ms. Foster holds the required certifications and will receive a $5,000 compensation increase with her salary split between education operations and food services. The motion to appoint Rhonda Foster carried by voice vote.

Routine financial and program approvals included acceptance of vouchers; approval of administrative contract rollovers (excluding the superintendent, which the board said will be handled in the superintendent’s evaluation later this summer); annual approval of public‑officials bonds for payroll and school treasurers; continuation of Title I and high‑ability programs; authorization for alternative services and private residential placements when needed; and acceptance of two grants: $250 to the high‑school science department from the Indian Association of Biology Teachers and a $6,500 community grant noted from a 'Broulette Creek Solar' fund administered through Apex.

Officials also approved the district summer lunch program at Central Elementary, explaining the summer meals are a federally funded program administered through state reimbursement; the district typically receives partial reimbursement for staff costs. After‑school care programs hosted by a community provider were approved, and the board accepted $19,725 in donations reported for June (including athletics sponsorships).

Dr. Williams closed the meeting by congratulating Ben Shrive on advancing in a boys golf tournament and encouraging continued public input on the district’s reconfiguration plans and the new website materials. Mr. West, commenting on a recent community meeting, said, "I was impressed with how many people showed up, how well it was presented and some of the feedback we got," praising turnout and presentation.

All decision items on the agenda were approved by voice vote; the meeting concluded after a final round of board remarks and a motion to adjourn.