Elkhart Schools Face Staffing and Enrollment Challenges Amid Construction and Policy Updates

Overview: The Elkhart Community School Board meeting addressed issues concerning overcrowded classrooms, ongoing construction, and future policy changes. Among a notable topics was a concern raised by Brett Coverstone, a third-grade teacher at Mary Feazer, about class sizes and the district’s hiring process. This meeting also featured updates on construction projects and the introduction of new policies and contracts, all while emphasizing transparency and community engagement in decision-making.

Indianapolis City-County Council Discusses New DORA in Irvington Amid Community Concerns

Overview: The Indianapolis City-County Council’s Rules & Public Policy Committee meeting focused on the establishment of a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) in Irvington, sparking debate among community members. The proposal, designed to enhance local business opportunities and streamline regulations for events, received mixed reactions from residents and business owners.

Perry Township Approves $175 Million for Southport and Perry Meridian School Expansions

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Perry Township School Board approved a combined budget of approximately $175 million for significant expansions and renovations at Southport and Perry Meridian high schools. The projects will feature new student activity centers and are scheduled for completion by mid-2028, with the first phase estimated to take 23 to 24 months.

Teachers Voice Concerns Over Compensation Amid New Contract Ratification in Wayne Township

Overview: During the MSD of Wayne Township School Board meeting, attention was drawn to the ratification of the 2025-2026 collective bargaining agreement with the Wayne Township Classroom Teachers Association, as educators voiced concerns about their financial well-being. The agreement, which received a 63% approval from the teachers’ association, introduces a one-time stipend of $3,526 for current teachers rather than a traditional compensation model with base pay increases. This decision, although ratified, sparked a series of passionate remarks from teachers who addressed the board during the public comment segment.

Lawrence Township School Board Faces Scrutiny Over Administrative Pay and Transparency

Overview: The Lawrence Township School Board meeting was marked by discussions on administrative salary proposals, transparency of benefits, and the acknowledgment of student and staff achievements. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the proposed increase in health care allowances for Tier One administrators, sparking concerns about pay equity and transparency in administrative compensation.