On Monday, the Vincennes Community School Corporation Board of School Trustees met for its monthly meeting to review updates, celebrate achievements, and discuss initiatives across the district.
Board members Lynne Bobe and Karla Smith were not present at this meeting.
Washington Learning Academy Virtual Program Highlight
This month, the Board spotlighted the Washington Learning Academy (WLA) and its virtual programming. Mr. Jared Blue introduced Mrs. Lori Graham, Virtual Director at WLA, who shared details about the program that serves students from VCSC and neighboring districts.
Students at WLA include six elementary, 12 middle school, and 58 high school learners. The curriculum uses Edmentum for middle and high school, supplemented by Edpuzzle and Khan Academy, while elementary students follow VCSC-developed lessons including Wit and Wisdom reading and language programs, Exact Path, Eureka Math, and Epic.
Students can access daily tutoring, as well as scheduled Google Meet sessions to enhance engagement. High school students have already earned 87 credits this year, and eighth-graders can earn high school credits in Health and Prep CC. Over the past five years, WLA has graduated approximately 60 students, with around 20 seniors enrolled this year.
Celebrating VCSC Employees of the Month
WLA: Sherm Jenne, bus driver, was honored for his positive presence, calm demeanor, and dedication to students. Outside of work, Sherm is active in community ministry and church leadership.
Riley Elementary: Suzanne Snider, kindergarten classroom assistant, was recognized for her cheerful attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to build meaningful relationships with students. Suzanne also volunteers in the community and is an active member of St. Vincent Catholic Church.
Congratulations to Sherm and Suzanne for their outstanding contributions to VCSC!
VCSC Board Highlights
The Board reviewed and approved key actions supporting students, staff, and the community.
Consent Agenda
The Board approved minutes, financial statements, personnel actions, facility use requests, and upcoming fundraisers.
Personnel Updates
The Board recognized retirements and resignations, thanking staff for their dedication:
Retirements: Jennifer Kiel (Franklin/Riley Art Teacher) effective 02/02/2026, Kelly Gardner (Vigo Elementary Teacher) effective 05/21/2026
Resignations: Molly Thomas (Vigo 4th grade teacher effective 12/19/2025), Hailey Walls (Franklin Daycare Coordinator), and Josh Frederick (Riley 2nd and 3rd Grade Math Pentathlon Coach)
Some notes on our retirees:
Jennifer “Jenny” Kiel
Jenny is a LHS graduate receiving her Associates from Vincennes University and her bachelor’s from Indiana State University. She started teaching art for the VCSC during the 1997-1998 school year as a part-time art teacher which she did for eight years. With the 2005-06 school year, Jenny moved more to a full-time role. Over her time in the VCSC she has taught art, reading, worked in the Title I lab and served as the High Ability Coordinator. Most of her time throughout the VCSC has been split between Riley and Franklin Elementary. Jenny and her husband will be following their daughter who is at IU and will be doing winter/spring travel ball.
Kelly Gardner
Kelly is a graduate of North Knox and then started her professional training at IU Kokomo, finishing this at IUPUI where she attained her bachelor’s in elementary education. Kelly started her teaching career in Ohio and then returned to Kokomo and then beginning with the 2015-2016 school year returned to Knox County and started teaching 4th grade at Vigo Elementary. While at Vigo, Kelly has taught both 4th and 5th grade. Kelly simply looks forward to slowing down and staying involved in the community where she can be.
New hires, transfers, and volunteers were approved to support academics and extracurricular activities, including Matthew Findlay (CMS Social Studies Teacher) and Macy Knight (ELA 8 Teacher).
Some notes on new hires:
Matthew Findlay
Matthew holds degrees in English, History, and Education from The King’s University and Oakland City University. Fully licensed in Indiana, he brings a strong academic background and a genuine passion for teaching. Matthew also brings valuable experience from his work as a paraprofessional in a life skills classroom at Linton-Stockton.
He is dedicated to helping students make meaningful connections between classroom learning and real-life application. Matthew values consistency, a safe and inviting environment, and building positive, supportive relationships with both students and staff. We are excited to have him join our Social Studies department, and I am confident he will be a great addition to our CMS team.
Macy Knight
Macy will be joining us as our ELA 8 teacher. She is currently completing her English Education degree at Oakland City University and will be with us for the remainder of the school year. Macy comes from Grayville, IL, where growing up in a small community taught her the value of relationships and connection—qualities she is eager to bring into her classroom.
As a student-athlete and team captain, she developed strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Macy believes that students learn best when they feel seen, supported, and safe. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and positive energy will be wonderful additions to our school community.
Donations and Fundraisers
The Board approved several donations and fundraisers, including:
LHS Class of 1975 donation to the Secret Alice Fund
Christmas Grams sales at Vigo Elementary
Frosty Family Formal to support families in need
Washington Learning Center PTO fundraising for student gifts
Use of Facilities
The Vigo PTO received approval to host its annual carnival on February 19, 2026, using the gym, cafeteria, and main hallways.
Social Media and Website Guide
Nathan Springfield presented a Social Media and Website Guide, along with Classroom/Club Social Media Guidelines, for Board review and approval.
The next VCSC Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 12, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. in the Administration Building.