Board adopts resolution aligning classified employees'bargaining recognition with teacher code; second reading of policy set for Aug. 25

The Monroe County Community School Corporation board adopted Resolution 2026-07 on July 28, which recognizes collective bargaining rights for certain classified operations employees as "coterminous with teachers" under Indiana Code chapter 20-29 while excluding jurisdiction by the Indiana Education Employment Relations Board for related processes.

Dr. Henderson recommended the resolution and explained that Policy 89.10 will be replaced and presented in Exhibit A, with the revised policy effective upon adoption following its second reading. Several trustees asked why a resolution would precede policy readings; one trustee said the timing was "a little confusing" but acknowledged the resolution's role in proposing policy language.

During discussion, a board member who identified as strongly pro-union said they were uncertain about removing bargaining rights and expressed hesitation about the policy's direction. "I am pretty staunchly and strongly pro union," the board member said, but also described uncertainty about whether narrowing bargaining scope is appropriate. Dr. Henderson characterized the resolution as aligning classified staff rights with teachers and recommended adoption.

The motion to adopt Resolution 2026-07 was moved by Ross and seconded by Ashley. The board recorded a final tally of 3 yes, 1 no and 1 abstention; Chair declared "Motion carries." The accompanying Policy 89.10 (appropriate bargaining units of employees) received its first reading and is scheduled for second and final reading on Aug. 25, 2026.