On Monday, the Vincennes Community School Corporation Board of School Trustees met for its monthly meeting to review updates, discuss initiatives, and share highlights from across the district.
Franklin Elementary Shines with Hands-On Learning
This month, Franklin Elementary is spotlighted for its focus on collaboration and community. Principal Andrew Malone is highlighting the ways teachers and students are partnering with local organizations to make reading lessons more interactive and meaningful.
Fourth-grade students recently explored what makes a “great heart,” both literally and figuratively, through the books The Circulatory Story and Love That Dog. Students participated in a variety of hands-on activities:
A YMCA instructor led cardio drumming sessions to demonstrate heart health.
Good Samaritan staff taught CPR, shared a cow heart for visual learning, and allowed students to explore anatomy mats and medical training dummies.
Now, students are diving into Module 2, studying how extreme environments affect people through Mountains and Hatchet. A recent trip to Camp Carson let students practice survival skills, including map reading, building shelters, and starting fires.
These experiences are the result of teachers collaborating over the summer, community agencies offering support, administrators and the school board backing the efforts, and PTO funding to bring it all together. Students are connecting their reading to real-world experiences while having fun and learning hands-on skills.
Celebrating VCSC Employees of the Month
Clark Middle School – BJ Helderman
BJ Helderman, CMS receptionist, is known for going above and beyond her front office duties. She supports athletics, manages student technology, and connects staff and students to resources. If there’s a question or problem at CMS, BJ is the first person people turn to. Her initiative, reliability, and positive attitude make her an essential part of the school community.
Riley Elementary – Kellee Worland
Kellee Worland brings decades of experience and energy to Riley Elementary. She teaches 4th- and 5th-grade reading, supports interventions in the reading lab, and serves as Student Council sponsor. Kellee is also a UDL trainer, member of the Behavior Implementation and Safety Teams, and Riley’s representative on the District Implementation Team. She greets students and families daily, manages the school flower fund, and steps in wherever needed. Her dedication and positivity make her a cornerstone of Riley Elementary.
Congratulations to BJ and Kellee for their outstanding contributions to VCSC!
VCSC Board Highlights
The VCSC Board of Trustees met to approve key actions supporting students, staff, and the community.
Consent Agenda
The Board approved minutes, financial statements, personnel actions, facility use requests, and upcoming fundraisers, ensuring the smooth operation of all schools.
Personnel Updates
The Board recognized retirements and resignations, thanking staff for their dedication and service.
Aaron Luce, VCSC Police Chief, thanked the Heaps of Jeeps of Knox County, Indiana, and Lawrence County, Illinois for their donation of 25 Life Vacs that are placed throughout all VCSC schools.
Aaron Morris joined the VCSC Police Department as a new officer, bringing extensive law enforcement experience, including SWAT, detective work, and training roles.
New tutors, volunteer coaches, and classroom assistants were approved across the district, supporting both academics and extracurricular activities.
Teacher Contract Ratification (2025–2027)
A new two-year agreement with the Vincennes Education Association was approved. Key highlights:
Competitive salaries ranging from $47,000 to $77,500 depending on degree and role.
Increased Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions.
Benefit days reduced slightly, with a stipend for employees using four or fewer days.
Additional pay for literacy endorsements, special education, Early College/dual credit teaching, and coaching roles.
Professional Development & Early Release
The Board approved an early release day on April 15, 2026, allowing all educators to attend a county-wide professional development event at the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center. Early release will be at 1:00 PM for elementary schools and 1:30 PM for middle and high schools, with flexibility for specialized programs.
2026–2027 School Calendar
The Board approved the next school year calendar, keeping it largely the same as this year, with Spring Break moved one week later. Staff return on August 5, 2026, students start August 6, and the last day for students is May 21, 2027. Monthly early-release days for professional development are included, except in August and January.
Fundraisers & Community Engagement
The Riley PTO received approval for a candle sale, with proceeds supporting school activities. These efforts highlight the ongoing partnership between staff, families, and the community to enrich student experiences.
The next VCSC Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 8, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the administration building.