Crown Point Community School Corporation

Board of School Trustees – Regular Business Meeting/Public Hearing
December 15, 2025  6:00 p.m.

Listen to a podcast summary of the board meeting at this link. This podcast was made with AI but checked by our communications team for accuracy.

 

1. Opening Items

• 1.01 Welcome and Call to Order
• 1.02 Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence

2. Resolution of Commendation Awards

• 2.01 2025 Corporation Christmas Card Design - Madeline Krisel, 9th Grade, at Crown Point High School, winning design for front of card, and Ellie Rushmeyer, 6th Grade, at Col. Wheeler Middle School, winning design for back of card
   

3. Public Hearing

• Education & Operations Fund Additional Appropriation - The Board approved additional appropriations of $5 million to the Education Fund and $1.5 million to the Operations Fund to address rising costs related to exceptional education growth, workers’ compensation, utilities, and previously approved stipends.

 

4. Public Comment on Educational Issues 

• Megan Anderson spoke regarding class sizes.
• Susan McKendry spoke regarding a recent land trade for properties on 129th and Iowa.
• Sam Kozaitis spoke regarding a recent land trade for properties on 129th and Iowa.

 

5. Consent Agenda 

 

6. Action Items

• 6.01 Course Additions – Crown Point High School (2026–2027) - Approved new course offerings in Theatre Production, AP 3D Art & Design, and AP Pre-Calculus, expanding pathways and Advanced Placement opportunities without adding staff.
• 6.02 Resolution #867 – $1M Transfer from Rainy Day Fund - Approved a transfer to support education fund expenses tied to negotiated stipends.
• 6.03 Restatement of 403(b) Plan - Approved updates aligning the district’s retirement plan with Secure Act 2.0 requirements effective January 1, 2026.
• 6.04 Garbage and Recycling Contract - Approved a three-year contract with Republic Services, reducing annual district costs by approximately $23,000.
• 6.05 Year-End Business Office Procedures - Approved standard year-end financial procedures, with full reporting to the Board in January.
• 6.06 Bank Reconciliation Adjustment - Approved a $23.90 adjustment to balance long-standing reconciliation differences.

 

7. Information & Recognition Items

• Elementary Education  Dr. Ciochina highlighted elementary students’ service learning, kindness initiatives, and community involvement during the holiday season. He thanked students, staff, and families for fostering a culture of high expectations and compassion.
• Secondary Education Mrs. Ramirez shared how citizenship, creativity, and college-and-career readiness continue to be emphasized at the middle and high school levels. She recognized staff and students for embracing new challenges and maintaining a strong district culture.
• Exceptional Education Mrs. Paskis provided an update on the growing number of students receiving exceptional education services and the extensive work completed to ensure accurate counts under a new IEP system. She also shared a student-designed disability awareness t-shirt.
• Assistant Superintendent Mr. Gianfermi recognized district-wide generosity through food drives, Angel Tree efforts, and community partnerships. He also highlighted a school celebration honoring a student completing chemotherapy, emphasizing care and connection.
• Human Resources Mr. Equihua shared a classroom example from Taft Middle School where students presented energy projects to guest “city council” members, celebrating student confidence, learning, and presentation skills.
• Chief Financial Officer Mr. Ruess recognized staff efforts behind the successful special education count and the work that led to cost savings in the waste management contract, thanking team members for going above and beyond.
• Communications Mrs. Allen announced kindergarten enrollment for the Class of 2039 will begin February 24 and shared highlights from a recent ambassador visit showcasing instructional technology and career programs.
• Superintendent of Schools Dr. Terrill reflected on the season of giving across schools, student performances, and the collective efforts of staff and families. He thanked the Board and community for continued support.

 

8. Other Business of the Board

Dr. Terrill shared an update on the district’s strategic planning process, noting that community surveys are currently underway. He reported strong participation so far and that facilitated planning meetings will be guided by the Indiana School Boards Association.

Board members addressed class size concerns raised earlier in the meeting. Several members emphasized that class size has long been a priority for the Board and administration. They explained that enrollment projections, staffing decisions, and section counts are reviewed carefully throughout the year. Board members encouraged families to seek clarification at the school or district level when questions arise.

The Board also discussed community questions related to a recent land swap, emphasizing that decisions were made following required legal processes, appraisals, and public notices. Members explained that land decisions are evaluated based on long-term educational suitability, safety, access, and future district needs, not potential commercial value. Board members stressed their commitment to transparency and welcomed continued community engagement and dialogue outside of formal public comment.

• The district purchased 129th Avenue property nearly 20 years ago as part of a long-term plan to acquire multiple pieces of land in the Winfield area in anticipation of growth. This strategy supported the construction of Taft Middle School on 121st Avenue.
• Although officially addressed as 129th Avenue, the parcel is located directly on Highway 231, and during planning for the new Taft building in 2021, it was determined that the site was no longer suitable for a school due to evolving safety standards, traffic patterns, and concerns related to bus circulation and safe access.
• In May 2025, following required public notices and a public hearing, the Board approved advertising the property for trade as part of its ongoing real estate strategy.
• While multiple parties expressed interest, one official bid was received, resulting in a finalized trade in early November for approximately 80 acres at 12501 Iowa Street.
• Although there are no immediate plans to build, the land exchange supports the district’s long-term planning and future growth needs.

 

9. Board Statements of Appreciation and Recognition

• David Warne wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, expressing appreciation for the work happening across the district and looking ahead to the new year.
• Scott Angel echoed those sentiments, encouraging families and staff to enjoy the holiday season with loved ones and to reflect on the many positives within the district and community.
• Timothy M. Vassar recognized Dale McLemore, a Crown Point bus driver who passed away on Thanksgiving Day. He reflected on Dale’s integrity, kindness, and dedication to students. 
• Danielle N. Bazin spoke about gratitude for the district, Board service, and Crown Point staff. She shared personal reflections as a parent, expressing appreciation for teachers, support staff, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and administrators who make school a positive place for students every day. 
• Brian M. Smith, Board President, closed the section by reflecting on the importance of perspective and gratitude, especially during the holiday season. He thanked the administration, staff, and community for their dedication and support, noted the many strengths of the district compared to challenges faced elsewhere, and encouraged everyone to take time to appreciate the opportunities and people that make Crown Point schools special.