The Vincennes Community School Corporation (VCSC) Board of School Trustees held its regular meeting on March 9, 2026.
VCSC Highlight: Little Alice Learning Center
Kelley McCarty highlighted the impact of Little Alice Learning Center (LALC), where early childhood education is intentionally designed to support how young children learn best.
LALC operates as a licensed preschool program, with all instruction grounded in Indiana’s Early Learning Standards. Through its “Purposeful Play, Powerful Learning” approach, play serves as the foundation for meaningful instruction. Rather than separating play and academics, teachers use guided, intentional activities to promote exploration, communication, and hands-on learning.
Educators utilize the Creative Curriculum and other research-based tools to align classroom experiences with kindergarten readiness skills. Each learning center—whether focused on literacy, math, science, or imaginative play—is designed with clear learning objectives in mind.
Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students through questioning, modeling, and differentiated support. As a result, students build not only early academic skills, but also confidence, independence, and social-emotional awareness.
By the time students leave LALC, they are equipped with a strong foundation for kindergarten and long-term success.
LALC Employees of the Month
Eryka Stein
Eryka Stein was recognized for creating a nurturing, student-centered classroom where children feel supported and motivated to learn.
She integrates early literacy and math skills into daily instruction through developmentally appropriate strategies, while designing engaging, hands-on experiences that connect learning to the real world. Her classroom reflects strong organization and alignment with early learning standards.
Stein has been with VCSC since 2018, previously serving at Vigo Elementary before joining LALC at its opening. She recently earned her Indiana Educator’s License and plans to continue advancing her work in early childhood education.
Her dedication and creativity have made a lasting impact on her students and the learning environment.
Ashlee Fredrick
Ashlee Fredrick was also recognized as an Employee of the Month for her role as a classroom assistant.
Since joining LALC in spring 2025, she has become an essential part of the team. She is known for her strong work ethic, willingness to help wherever needed, and commitment to student safety and well-being.
Fredrick supports daily routines, assists with classroom organization, and builds meaningful relationships with students, helping create a safe and supportive environment for learning.
Her contributions play a key role in the overall success of the preschool classroom.
Personnel Updates
Retirement
Kelley McCarty, Director of Little Alice Learning Center, will retire at the end of May, concluding a remarkable 39-year career in education.
A proud VCSC graduate, McCarty returned to the corporation in 2000 and served as principal at Washington School and later Vigo Elementary for 19 years. She was selected to lead the development and launch of Little Alice Learning Center, where she provided two years of strong leadership to establish the program.
Her family’s legacy in education spans 117 years of combined service to VCSC, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to students and the community.
Her leadership, passion, and dedication have left a lasting impact on the corporation and its students.
Resignations
Several staff members submitted resignations, including:
Brad Bodart – Lincoln High School PTECH Teacher
Abbie Rogers – Lincoln High School Classroom Aide
Kathy Clinkenbeard – Riley Elementary Classroom Aide
Matt Collins – Lincoln High School Wrestling Coach
Angie Warmuth – Vigo Elementary Classroom Aide
Diana Hercules – Vigo Elementary Classroom Aide
Two individuals received special recognition:
Matt Collins concluded a 19-year tenure as head varsity wrestling coach, becoming the longest-serving current coach in the program. He has helped guide numerous athletes through state-level competition and will continue teaching at Lincoln High School.
Kathy Clinkenbeard, though officially employed since 2021, has long been a dedicated volunteer and supporter of Riley Elementary. She is also the founder of the Backpacks of Love program, which provides food for students in need. While stepping down from her role, she plans to continue volunteering.
Recommendations
The Board reviewed several personnel recommendations, including new hires and coaching positions for the upcoming school year, pending final approvals.
Consent Agenda
The Board was asked to approve the consent agenda, which included:
Meeting minutes and financial reports
Personnel updates (retirements, resignations, recommendations, and leaves)
Fundraisers and field trips
Key Discussion and Decision Items
Facility Improvement Project
The Board considered a resolution approving the eighth amendment to the corporation’s lease agreement, allowing for up to $16.23 million in bonds to fund renovations and upgrades—primarily at Lincoln High School and related facilities.
The project was determined to serve a necessary public purpose and support students, staff, and the community.
Policy Updates
The Board reviewed and approved a series of policy and guideline updates recommended by Neola. These updates align with recent state and federal legislation and address areas such as curriculum, student safety, nondiscrimination, and operational procedures.
Grant Updates
District leaders provided an overview of grant funding, including Title I–IV and School Safety Grants. These funds support staffing, professional development, student services, technology, and school safety initiatives.
The Board was asked to acknowledge past grants and approve future applications as opportunities become available.
Summer Programs and Student Support
Several summer opportunities were presented for approval:
Washington Learning Academy Summer School (May 26 – June 23) to help students recover credits
Lincoln High School Summer School offering core graduation courses
Summer IREAD support for grades 2–3 at Tecumseh-Harrison Elementary
Kindergarten Jump Start program at Riley Elementary for incoming students without preschool experience
These programs are designed to support student learning, close gaps, and prepare students for the upcoming school year.
The next VCSC Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 11, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in the Administration Building.