You can watch the meeting here.
The Vincennes Community School Corporation (VCSC) Board of Trustees met for their regular session, covering recognitions, policy updates, and facility improvements.
Celebrating a “Good Idea”
The meeting began with a special recognition as Mrs. Sheryl Schaefer-Jones from the Knox County Special Education Cooperative presented the Good Idea Award to Ashlee O'Dell from Tecumseh-Harrison. Nominated by her principal, Jono Connor, and selected by the committee, Ashlee was honored for going above and beyond for her students. Whether ensuring they have a ride home from basketball, distributing leftover event food to those in need, or leading the effort to make Tecumseh-Harrison a Special Olympics Banner School, Ashlee is always thinking of others. She also dedicates countless hours coaching the unified robotics team, ensuring that every student feels valued.
O’dell was teary eyed when she received the award.
This recognition is especially meaningful as March is Disability Awareness Month, led by the Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities. The focus of the month is to promote independence, inclusion, and opportunities for people with disabilities.
The Mickey and Ruth Kimberly Good IDEA Award perfectly aligns with this mission. Mickey Kimberly, a Vincennes Community Schools student with special needs, lived from August 24, 1979, to December 1, 1994, and had a rare condition called mucopolysaccharidosis II. His mother, Ruth Kimberly, was a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, founding Attic, Inc., a local advocacy center. Ruth created this award to honor those who make a significant impact on students with special needs. Although Ruth passed away in 2011, her legacy continues through the award.
VCSC Highlight of the Month – CMS Morning Show
Clark Middle School Principal Ryan Clark introduced Ms. Wendy Smith, who presented this month’s district highlight: the CMS Morning Show.
The student-run news broadcast is part of the school’s Current Events elective, where eighth graders produce a daily program featuring school announcements, interviews, and activity updates. The show is posted on the CMS Facebook page, giving the broader community a glimpse into school life.
The broadcast has evolved since its start in the early 2000s, now featuring segments like Mindful Minutes with Mrs. Vickers, In the Dugout with the Dean featuring Mr. Pfoff, and Mrs. McCormick’s Employability Segment. It also serves as a platform for social-emotional learning.
Currently, 18 students run the production, gaining hands-on experience in broadcasting, teamwork, and technology. Before the meeting, several students interviewed school board members before showcasing a snippet of a recent broadcast.
VCSC Employees of the Month
Three outstanding staff members were recognized as Employees of the Month.
Franklin Elementary School – Jessica Lindsey
“Jessica has a gift for making students feel safe and heard,” said Franklin Elementary Principal Melissa Pancake. “Her patience and encouragement help students work through challenges, and her positivity is contagious. She inspires not just her students, but all of us.”
A special education teacher, Jessica is known for her calming presence and unwavering support for students. Beyond the classroom, she serves on the fun committee, manages the teacher’s flower fund, and tutors students needing extra support. “She always goes the extra mile,” Pancake said. “We’re so lucky to have her.”
Tecumseh-Harrison Elementary School – Fantasy Brower
“Fantasy is one of those people who just steps in whenever she’s needed,” said Tecumseh-Harrison Principal Jono Connor. “One teacher described her as ‘an absolute asset to the classroom.’ Whether she’s helping a student calm down, motivating them to push themselves, or jumping in to assist wherever she’s needed, she does it all with heart and dedication.”
In her third year at Tecumseh-Harrison, Fantasy has earned a reputation as the school’s “centerfielder” because she helps in so many different ways. Her ability to build strong relationships with students and staff makes her an invaluable part of the team. “We are lucky to have her,” Connor added.
Lincoln High School – Chloe Cardinal
“Chloe is passionate about preparing students for life beyond high school,” said Lincoln High School Principal Dr. Shea Duke. “She works tirelessly to connect them with real-world job experiences, giving them the confidence and skills they need for the future.”
A 2022 VCSC graduate, Chloe has made a significant impact as a job coach in the Life Skills program. She has organized career-focused field trips and led fundraising efforts to support the program. “She’s a true team player,” Duke said. “She works closely with students, teachers, and aides, always making sure students have what they need to succeed.”
Recognizing a Career of Dedication
The board recognized the retirement of Joyce McCarter, who has been an aide in the school corporation for over 26 years—most of that time working with Life Skills students at Lincoln High School.
“Joyce’s kindness, patience, and expertise have made an immeasurable impact,” the board noted. “She has supported countless students and colleagues, and she will be deeply missed.”
And of course, her legendary homemade Butterfinger bars won’t be forgotten, either.
Board Approvals and Recognitions
The board approved minutes, claims, financial statements, personnel requests, field trip requests, fundraisers, and facility use requests.
A policy update was presented by Mr. Parsley, with revisions recommended by Neola to ensure compliance with federal and state legislation. The proposed updates are available for review here.
Seventh Amendment to Lease
The board approved a resolution to amend the lease of Lincoln High School as part of the 2025 Secondary School Buildings and Other Facilities Renovation/Repair/Upgrade Project. Since the corporation does not have enough funds to cover the full cost, the Vincennes School Building Corporation will issue bonds of up to $15.61 million. A public hearing on the lease amendment will be held on April 14, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the VCSC Administrative Center.
Veregy Contract
The board formally approved the contract with Veregy for the roof and solar project at Lincoln High School. The contract had previously been approved electronically due to time constraints.
E-Rate Funding Project
Mr. Parsley, on behalf of IT Director Dustin Jones, requested approval for the E-Rate project, which helps fund school technology infrastructure. The project will upgrade Lincoln High School’s network equipment and increase internet speed by ten times. The total cost is $88,642.35, with E-Rate covering $70,913.88 and VCSC responsible for $17,728.47. The board approved the request.
Summer IREAD Program
The board approved a Summer IREAD program for second and third graders, to be held at Tecumseh-Harrison from May 27 to June 13. Students will receive reading intervention support, and lunch will be provided.
Little Alice Learning Center Handbook
The board approved updates to the Little Alice Learning Center (LALC) Handbook for the 2025-2026 school year, including revisions to policies on attendance, discipline, food and nutrition, and confidentiality.
At the close of the meeting, board members congratulated students for their hard work on the CMS Morning Show and recognized the dedicated staff members honored during the session.
Board President Pat Hutchison, who is battling lymphoma, thanked everyone for their prayers and support, sharing that his “outlook is good.”
The meeting was adjourned at 7:43pm.