JCD board members get closer to filling position of Supt.

The search for a superintendent for Jac-Cen-Del schools should be over soon. At the October 17 meeting those attending heard the process the board has gone through in their search. A search team was used to help with the process. Five candidates were chosen from the applications submitted, which has now been narrowed down to two. Both of the candidates have had second interviews. It was noted that a start date would not be later than January 1, 2023.

In the meantime, the school is moving forward and reports were heard from elementary principal Dee Budd and interim superintendent Fred Unsicker.
Principal Budd noted that the elementary staff members have helped out where there have not been enough substitute teachers to cover classes. She thanked Mr. Meyer for doubling up his PE classes many times to help out.

Field trips at the elementary have begun with first and second graders going to Vogt’s Farm Pumpkin Patch. Fifth graders took a walking trip to the library. Third graders participated in Ag Day at the fairgrounds and fourth grade went to Conner Prairie for an extended day field trip.

A space themes Title I family night has been set for October 25 as well as a media fair. National STEM/STEAM Day will be celebrated on November 8. Activities are being organized for all grade levels. The Kid’s Fun Factory from Batesville will be visiting the school. Veterans are being invited to share a breakfast prepared by JCD Student Council before the program begins.

Personnel:
The board approved the resignation of Brooklyn Owens as high school aide; Brandi Merkel as athletic secretary/nurse assistant and William Dan McQueen as maintenance/custodial. They approved hiring Karolyn Harmeyer as high school archery coach.

Report from Interim Superintendent:
Fred Unsicker gave an update on the elementary roof and said they are still waiting on supplies to go ahead with the work. He said negotiations are underway and thanked the negotiations team for contract discussions regarding a superintendent.

He reiterated what Mrs. Budd talked about concerning Ag Day at the fairgrounds park, saying “it was successful and the students enjoyed it.”

Those in attendance included board members: Jason Smith, Debra Roberts, James Westerman, Jason Wagner, James Gayheart, interim supt. Fred Unsicker, Nancy Means, deputy clerk-treasurer, Dee Budd, elementary principal, staff and patrons.

The next regular meeting of the JCD School Board of Trustees is scheduled for November 21 at 6 p.m. in the JCD Elementary Library.
Editor’s Note: Information for this story was taken from unofficial minutes from the October meeting.