The Rossville Consolidated School District Board of Education held its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the Rossville School Library. The evening began with a celebration of student achievement as winners of the James Whitcomb Riley poetry contest were recognized. Students Rylynn Maish (“Little Orphan Annie”), Denver Mackey (“The Ole Hay-Mow”), Alexis Simons (“Granny”), and Gideon Prather (“The Raggedy Man”) delivered standout performances that showcased their appreciation for classic literature.
Following the student spotlight, time was set aside for public comment before the Board approved the minutes from the March 4, 2025, regular session and reviewed claims, payroll, and financial reports. Board members received these documents in advance and were encouraged to contact Superintendent Dr. Jim Hanna with any specific questions.
In personnel matters, the Board accepted the resignations of Evan North, teacher, effective at the end of the 2024-2025 school year; Gabrielle Hamilton, Administrative Assistant with Clinton County Joint Services, effective May 22, 2025; and Wes Nagle, Varsity Track & Field Assistant Coach. New appointments included Sam Blackburn and Megan Arnone as substitute teachers. Approval was granted for hiring a teacher to provide extended school year services to a fifth-grade student, as determined by a case conference committee. Spring coaching appointments were also approved, including Judy Homco as Girls Varsity Tennis Head Coach, with Brad Mohler and Nate Burkle serving as volunteer assistants. Thomas St. Myer was approved as a middle and high school track and field volunteer assistant.
The Board held first readings on several policy items: revisions to Section 2730 regarding firearms on school property and Section 5105 on virtual education; and the introduction of two new policies—Section 4420 addressing police relations, and Section 8521, the Civility and Decorum Policy. Second readings were held for Section 3210, Use of Equipment, and Section 4401, Student Searches.
Financially, the Board reviewed Crowe LLP’s final audit report from July 2022 to June 2024. The results, presented as an informational item, have been posted to both the State and District websites. The Board also approved continuing the District’s partnership with Indiana Online Academy for the 2025–2026 school year. Indiana Online Academy provides a reliable virtual education option with support from licensed online teachers.
Revisions to the Clinton County Joint Services Agreement were also approved. These changes clarify the financial responsibilities of participating corporations regarding legal representation and related costs. The Cooperative will assume responsibility for legal costs involving Joint Services employees.
A major discussion item was the proposed resurfacing of the outdoor track. Due to deteriorating conditions and long-term weather impact, Dr. Hanna recommended complete renovation of the track and related facilities, including the long and high jump areas and a pole vault area. Tecton Construction Management provided a comprehensive plan with a total project cost of $228,658.50. Dr. Hanna recommended using Rainy Day funds for this project, citing its urgency and long-term benefit to students.
Preschool tuition rates were adjusted for the 2025–2026 school year. The fee for 4–5-year-olds (five days per week) was $425, and the fee for 3–4-year-olds (three days per week) was $275. An application fee of $50 was added for all new applicants. The Board also approved new payment policies, including late fees and program removal for non-payment.
Several generous donations were accepted, including $300 from Gary and Brenda Spray to Rossville FFA, a saxophone and clarinet from an anonymous donor to the band program, and a Rifton Pacer Gait Trainer valued at $999 from Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Conklin to support students with mobility needs.
Mr. Dennison informed the Board that the Parent Advisory Council’s Grandparents’ Day event had been moved to Friday, May 9, 2025. Due to expected attendance, overflow parking will be available at the Rossville Methodist and Presbyterian churches, with shuttle service provided by school buses, pending Board approval—which was granted.
The Board retroactively approved a Mini-Volleyball Camp for Pre-K through 3rd grade students, scheduled for April 1–3 after school. In addition, the Board adopted a resolution authorizing using Eventlink’s online payment system for paying athletic officials following guidance from the State Board of Accounts.
Lastly, the Board approved the declaration of various surplus and obsolete equipment for disposal, as permitted under Indiana law. This included selling a 2010 GMC Cutaway Bus to Taylor School Corporation for $1,000.
Dr. Hanna concluded the meeting by reviewing the field trips and the conference report. Shortly thereafter, the meeting was adjourned.
