Northwest Allen County Schools board appoints Dr. Brandon Bidding as next superintendent

The Board of School Trustees of Northwest Allen County Schools voted to appoint Dr. Brandon Bidding as the district’s next superintendent, effective July 1, 2027.

Superintendent Mike Barker recommended Bidding and told trustees the district’s legal counsel—Barnes & Thornburg and Church, Church, Hittle & Antrim—had reviewed the recommendation and advised that it complies with district policy. President Hathaway announced a motion by Ms. Schlatter, a second by Ms. Jamieson, and the board approved the appointment by voice vote.

Why it matters: the board said the selection is aimed at ensuring leadership stability and a smooth transition. Barker described Bidding as having “served in virtually every leadership capacity” in the district and said he will work alongside Bidding during the coming year so Bidding can “hit the ground running” on July 1, 2027.

In public comment before the appointment, Kent Summers raised concerns about the district’s nepotism policy (A125), saying a recent announcement appeared to create “a direct line” of supervision among relatives and citing state ethics guidance and case law. Barker responded to that comment during his report, saying the district had run the matter by its attorneys and he was advised the recommended appointment is “in alignment with that policy.”

After the vote, Bidding said he was “humbled” and “grateful” for the opportunity and for the chance to work with Barker over the coming year as part of the transition.

Votes at a glance: the board approved the appointment by voice vote. The meeting also approved routine consent-agenda items, a personnel report, fundraisers and professional-learning requests, and the health insurance committee’s recommendation during the same session.

What’s next: Bidding will formally assume the superintendent role on July 1, 2027. The board will continue district oversight and will take up policy second readings at its Aug. 3 meeting.