Whitley County board unanimously adopts revised teacher-evaluation model, advances tech/AI policy and approves fund transfers and adjunct permits

At its July 20 meeting the Whitley County Consolidated Schools board voted unanimously on a package of items that included adoption of a revised certified teacher-evaluation and growth model, first readings of related policy updates and an updated acceptable-use-of-technology policy that adds generative-AI language.

The board adopted the revised teacher-evaluation and growth model, which district administrators said was developed by a team of teachers, administrators and an outside consultant and funded by a SIG grant. The update adds a more objective observation rubric, timelines for administrators and teachers, and a requirement that each teacher set professional goals. The motion to adopt was made and seconded and passed by voice/raised-hand vote.

The board also approved first readings of updated board policies tied to the evaluation changes (policy citations given in the meeting as 31-42 and 32-20). Administrators said statutory changes reduced the need to maintain prior label distinctions (such as “highly effective”) and that the revised policies align with recent legislation. A board member asked whether changes affecting reduction-in-force procedures required separate action with the teachers’ union; administrators responded that they had consulted WCTA and the ISBA attorney and did not expect additional contract steps.

Administrators presented a consolidated acceptable-use policy (75-40) intended to replace several outdated sub-policies. The policy adds a parent-control option for web-filtering (mandated by recent legislation) and a general definition and parameters for generative artificial intelligence; building-level handbooks would specify classroom use. The board approved the first reading.

On finances, the board approved a resolution authorizing transfer of an allowable portion of debt-service cash balances into operations to help offset revenue reductions stemming from Senate Bill 1; Todd Fleetwood recommended the action. The board also approved a set of annual adjunct teacher permits and employment agreements (seven adjunct permits listed by administration). For each action the board moved, seconded and recorded a unanimous approval by a show-of-hands vote.

Administrators briefly reviewed aggregate teacher-evaluation ratings for 2025–26 (excluding administrators): 180 highly effective, 58 effective, 1 needs improvement and 1 ineffective — the final year for those categorical labels under updated state law, officials said.

All formal motions that evening passed unanimously; no recorded roll-call tallies were provided in the public transcript.