edinburgh community school corporation - Edinburgh CSC

EDINBURGH COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
Edinburgh, Indiana
November 15, 2010
The Board of School Trustees met in regular session at 6:00 p.m. on this date at the Administration
Building, 202 S. Keeley Street, Edinburgh, IN 46124 with Cathy Hamm presiding. All members were
present.
Also attending were Richard Arkanoff, Jackie Crawhorn, Curtis Rooks, Miriam Rooks, Brad Teter, Gail
Hoffman, Carol Swanson, Bob Straugh, Paula Wright, Joyce Walker, Paula Weber, Guy Hardin, Jackie
McGaha, Pam Streeval, Traci Foltz, Kevin Rockey, Susan Pence, Linda Burton, Edna Whitlock, Kim
Hobdy, Brooke Phillips, Bertha Bailey, Justin Lollar, Cami Ervin, Joe Gerth, Micah Heath, Roger
Records, Marie Records, Jo Ford, Amy Littikin, Chris Wright, Julie Leonard, Autumn Humbaugh,
Rachel Matusik, Roxie Kindelsperger, Dr. Damon Peigh of NEOLA of Indiana, Angela Kelsay, Scott
Purvis, Jessica Purvis, Sherri Smith, Holly Pease, Sheila Simpson, Gary Simpson, Kinsey Schue, Jeff
Burton, Josh Edwards, Kathy Diseroad-Watts, Sandy Gillespie, Tracy Beier, Nancy West, Mike Bryant,
Bob Malinka, Mary Malinka, and Christina Graham.
Everyone present was led in prayer by Mr. Streeval and the Pledge of Allegiance by Mrs. Hamm.
PRESENTATIONS
A. NEOLA – Dr. Damon Peigh
Dr. Peigh thanked Mr. Arkanoff and the Board for inviting him to make a presentation on NEOLA. Dr.
Peigh stated he has been a Superintendent for seventeen years and this program has been implemented at
both school corporations that he has been at. Policy is the most important thing a school Board is
responsible for except for hiring their Superintendent. Dr. Peigh stated NEOLA used to do curriculum
work only, but now does policy work. There are ten categories addressed with a set of templates that
protect schools in every way imaginable. Each policy goes through four or five attorneys before
NEOLA sees it. Dr. Peigh stated NEOLA’s lead attorney is John Bailey with Bose, McKinney and
Evans. The attorneys put everything together and from there it is sent to the lead attorneys in each state.
Bylaw and administrative policies are the first two areas done. NEOLA then works through the school
Superintendent with the goal of putting together a recommendation for approval. After the
recommendation is complete, the information is then shared with the Board. If the Board feels there are
areas they feel should be done differently, they give feedback and changes are made. Dr. Peigh stated
they are open to alternative ways of writing each schools’ policies. The mission of NEOLA is to put the
corporation’s thumbprint on their policies. Dr. Peigh stated all policy sections take eight to ten months
to work through. The process is to put together three or four sections which ultimately allows time to
absorb the information. While the policies are being reviewed by the Superintendent and School Board
NEOLA begins working on putting together the next section for review. When the process is finished
and all sections reviewed, it is time to share the policies with all administrative staff and Teacher’s
Union to make sure everything is correct and to follow-up on any questions or concerns. At that point
the Board will be asked for approval. Dr. Peigh stated while the policies are being reviewed, they will
begin looking at administrative guidelines. The By-Laws portion is basically Board policy, and there
are no administrative guidelines in Board policy. The administrative guidelines process takes eight to
ten months to work through and the process is the same as the Board policy process. Dr. Peigh
presented an electronic version of the Policy manual to the Board and audience. Dr. Peigh stated in all
his years working with NEOLA, they have not had one call relative to the issue of putting too much
online. The general public finds out how much schools are responsible for when looking through their
policy manual. Dr. Peigh explained the different areas of the website, including a section that provides

forms from the School Corporation as well as state and government forms. Any forms the school
already has can be inserted in the website, and if there are forms that the school needs, but does not
have, those will be provided. The Indiana Code is also available on the website. Dr. Peigh
demonstrated another benefit of the website where someone can type in “Transfer Student”, for
example, and every policy that has anything to do with transfer students will come up. Dr. Peigh stated
currently 304 Indiana school corporations use NEOLA. Anyone interested in looking at one of the
websites can visit www.msdwc.k12.in.us, click on the Board icon, and then click on policies. Dr. Peigh
suggested the Board experiment with the website at home to see what it’s like. By going through
NEOLA, an immense amount of paperwork is eliminated. Dr. Peigh stated the administrative guidelines
are updated every six months, and he would meet with the Superintendent to go over those updates.
This will be an ongoing process due to Legislative changes, changes in the law, etc. Dr. Peigh stated
they are currently working on a policy dealing with genetics, which is something he never thought he
would ever see. A school corporation recently had a lawsuit filed against them regarding something
similar to HIPA law and not hiring someone due to genetics. Dr. Peigh stated the charge for NEOLA
includes a one-time fee of $8,350 for Board policy, $8,350 for administrative guidelines, and $4,400 for
online services. Mr. Streeval asked if any local school corporations use NEOLA. Dr. Peigh stated
Franklin, C9, NHJ, Franklin, Center Grove, Greenwood and Columbus, although Columbus is more
independent and handles a lot more on their own. NEOLA currently serves 53 corporations in southern
Indiana. Dr. Peigh stated he lives within 10 miles of Edinburgh which will make it easy for him to meet
with Mr. Arkanoff and the Board. The NEOLA group meets in February and August to conduct all their
discussions. NEOLA is currently in the process of trying to become more electronic so that when they
meet with corporations every six months it will be easier for everyone to meet around a table and work
to develop ideas. Administrators will sit in on these sessions. A secretary will be brought to the
meetings. If the policy and guidelines are done electronically, there is a two to three week time frame.
If the process is done on paper, it is a five to seven week process. Mr. Streeval asked if there is a cost
after the initial one-time fees. Dr. Peigh stated there is an update fee of approximately $950 two times a
year, as well as a maintenance fee of approximately $450 if it is an electronic version. After the initial
cost of developing the policies, most schools are told to budget $2,500 per year. Dr. Peigh asked the
Board to review their policy manual and let Mr. Arkanoff know any policies they want covered so they
can cover those areas as well to protect the school. Mrs. Weddle asked if NEOLA will check the
policies the school wants to keep to make sure they are legal. Dr. Peigh stated NEOLA asks that the
school attorney review those policies. What NEOLA brings to the school is warranted for up to $5,000
per policy, although there has not been an issue for twenty-five years. Mr. Hoskinson asked if NEOLA
will review the school’s current policies. Dr. Peigh stated they do not review the corporation’s current
policies but use NEOLA’s templates and then adapt the policies to fit your corporation and to work with
your philosophy. If there are policies the Board wants looked at, they should be tagged and looked at
while going through the process. If there are any current policies the Board wants to keep, let Mr.
Arkanoff know and NEOLA will try to incorporate them into the policy manual. Mr. Arkanoff and the
Board thanked Dr. Peigh for his presentation.
B. Health Update – Nancy West
Nancy West, School Nurse, stated this has been a very busy year for nurses all over Indiana with the
new immunization requirements for grades six through twelve. Mrs. West stated she has paperwork and
reports she does that lists students in kindergarten, first and sixth grades for state checks of
immunizations that are not up to date. This year she had to learn how to enter that information into the
new CHIRP network, which is a computerized network for all of Indiana. Mrs. West stated she can now
check student health records online. Mrs. West stated she started working last year on getting the new
requirement information out to parents. At this point there is only one child who has not received all the
new required immunizations, but the state allows the student to attend school as long as they are
scheduled to receive the vaccines. The Johnson County Health Department is small and it has been very
busy for them. Mrs. West stated her report has been submitted, but it is an ongoing report. Parents have

een very cooperative. Mrs. West stated it is a group effort of lots of people to take care of the students
coming to the clinic for various reasons since she goes between buildings throughout the day. Everyone
that helps in any way is greatly appreciated. Mrs. West stated during the school year hearing and vision
screenings are given to our students. In December a group of Lion’s Club members from Columbus
come in and do a mass screening for students in grades one, three and five. During the months of
November and December it is a busy shopping time for several people who get to shop for Clothe-A-
Child. Mrs. West stated she receives a lot of community help with this and it is a fun time. After
Christmas Break Mrs. West follows up on the vision screening information and makes sure parents are
also following up. During January, February and March Mrs. West does weight and heights on students.
Seal Indiana also comes to the school every year. Parents are sent a notice to see if they are interested in
allowing their child to participate. Seal Indiana provides dental health records that go home to parents.
Mrs. West stated during this time she does more follow-up on the hearing and vision screenings. In May
the High School hosts a blood draw, which is a yearly event. During Kindergarten Roundup in April
Mrs. West talks to parents to make sure they know what is needed as far as immunizations. Mr. Streeval
asked if precautions are still taken with the Mersa Virus which was found in the locker room last year.
Mrs. West stated there is ongoing cleaning done in the locker rooms and weight room. Mersa is a
frequent problem and Carol Swanson and the custodians do a nice job of taking care of that. Mr.
Streeval asked if hand sanitizer is still supplied to all staff. Mrs. West stated all staff members received
a hand sanitizer and refills are available at all buildings.
Mrs. West read a letter (attached) to Mr. Arkanoff and the Board on her plan to retire at the end of the
2010-2011 school year. Mr. Arkanoff and the Board thanked Mrs. West for her presentation and for her
years of service to the corporation. Mrs. West received a standing ovation.
C. Recognition of Middle School Students of the Month
Mr. Edwards recognized the Middle School students of the month: McKenna Tetrick for 6 th grade,
Elizabeth Tedrow for 7 th grade, and Mariah Brown for 8 th grade. Mr. Edwards thanked the three
students for always doing the right things every day and stated these students are always positive. Mr.
Edwards thanked McKenna, Elizabeth and Mariah for all their hard work and recognized their parents.
These good qualities start at home. Mr. Arkanoff and the Board congratulated the Students of the
Month.
PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS
Mrs. Hamm invited public comments regarding agenda items.
Micah Heath stated he has some concerns about the process of the Teacher’s Union bargaining and the
decision on increasing a teacher from part-time to full time. Last week teachers were invited to attend a
meeting to ratify an agreement on how extra money was to be spent. A proposal was introduced to
increase this part-time teacher’s salary to full-time. Several teachers, both union and non-union
members, offered several suggestion which were discarded. Everyone present was asked to vote and
were given ballot sheets. Non-union members received a different colored ballot than union members
and were told their ballots would be treated differently in this decision. In conclusion, Mr. Heath stated
he would like to see improved communication between all teachers and the Teacher’s Union so that
future situations such as this can be discussed and worked through together for the best interest of the
corporation.
Mr. Hoskinson stated when the Board started using the Consent Agenda in their meetings it was his
understanding that it would mainly be used for minutes and claims. It has gotten to the point where a lot
of items such as personnel and wages are included, and he is not sure that was the intention from the

eginning. Mr. Hoskinson stated he feels issues such as personnel and wages should be kept out of the
Consent Agenda and voted on separately. Mrs. Hamm asked Mr. Hoskinson if he understood that any
item in the Consent Agenda could be pulled out for discussion at any time. Mr. Hoskinson stated it was
his understanding that the Consent Agenda was for Minutes, Claims and other routine items presented at
every meeting. Mrs. Hamm asked that Board Members keep in mind that any item can be pulled out of
the Consent Agenda for discussion at any time.
NEW BUSINESS
A. Consent Agenda
1. Minutes of the October 18 and November 8, 2010 Meetings
2. Claims for Payment – Claims #380 through and including #494 and payroll dates of 10/29/10
and 11/12/10.
3. Personnel – Recommendation to approve Chris Fish as Technology Assistant effective
10/25/10; Termination of Chris Fish as Technology Assistant effective 10/25/10;
Recommendation to approve David Haywood as East Side Custodian effective 10/29/10;
Recommendation to approve a medical leave for Stephanie Pilcher beginning 04/07/10 and
continuing through the end of the 2010-2011 school year; Recommendation to approve a
medical leave request from Curtis Rooks beginning 12/03/10; Recommendation to approve a
medical leave request from Jackie Crawhorn beginning 12/01/10; Resignation of Stan Brown
as Assistant Head Softball Coach; Resignation of Justin Lollar as 5 th grade Boys Basketball
Coach; Recommendation to approve Justin Lollar as volunteer assistant 5 th /6 th grade Boys
Basketball Coach; Recommendation to approve Shawn Buckner as 6 th grade Boys Basketball
Coach; Recommendation to approve Nick Dunigan as 6 th grade Boys Basketball Coach;
Resignation of April McGaha as 8 th grade Girls Basketball Coach; Recommendation to
approve April McGaha as volunteer Assistant Varsity Girls Basketball Coach;
Recommendation to approve Thad Westerfield as 8 th grade Girls Basketball Coach; and
recommendation to approve Torrie Brown as volunteer Middle School Girls Basketball
Coach.
4. Salary Increase for Support Staff and Administrative Support Staff – Approval of a salary
increase of 2.57% for support staff employees with the exception of an increase to Curtis
Rooks, Director of Facilities and Maintenance from $45,000 to $49,500 and Bob Straugh,
Technology Coordinator from $42,000 to $52,500.
One Time Stipend for Support Staff Employees - Approval of a one-time stipend for support
staff with 1 year of experience or more on the pay scale for 10 – 12 month staff with 1-7
years experience receiving $410.40 and 8 years or more receiving $684.00 and 9-month
employees receiving 60% of these amounts as listed on the attached.
5. Receptionist Job Description – Approval of an Elementary Receptionist job description.
6. Donations - $150 from Edinburgh Tri Kappa for EHS Choir; $150 from Edinburgh Tri
Kappa for EHS Band; $150 from Johnson County Beef Cattle Association for Home Ec.;
$100 from Johnson County Extension Homemakers for Home Ec.; $2,400 from East Side
Boosters for East Side Class Field Trips; $142.12 from Target Stores – Take Charge of
Education for East Side Student Activities; $150 from Sports Plus for Athletics – Hospitality
Room.
7. Bus Bid – Approval of the purchase of a 42 passenger bus with wheelchair accessibility from
IC at the price of $94,870.
8. QSCB Pay Request – Approval to pay $14,416 to Edinburgh Comm. School Corp. for
Rollins Construction application 4; $22,362.68 for Release of Retainage of Account #797190
for RQAW Construction/Bid Services.

Mr. Hoskinson moved and Mrs. Taulman seconded a motion to approve the Consent Agenda with the
exception of “Personnel” and “Salary Increase for Non-Certified Employees”, which he would like to
pull out for discussion. The motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Hoskinson moved and Mrs. Taulman seconded a motion to approve Personnel under the “Consent
Agenda” except for Item 17-i, Salary Increase for Non-Certified Employees. The motion passed
unanimously.
Mr. Hoskinson stated he feels the two new Board members coming on in January should decide on the
non-certified salary increases, especially when the raises include one in the amount of 25%. The new
Board members should have a right to vote on this issue since they are going to take possession of it for
the next four years. Mrs. Hamm asked for further discussion of Salary Increases for Non-Certified
Employees. There was not further discussion. Mrs. Hamm called for a motion on Item 17-i. Mr.
Hoskinson moved and Mrs. Taulman seconded a motion to approve Item 17-i, Salary Increase for Non-
Certified Employees. The motion passed unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS
A. Consideration of New Policy, Dealing with the Death of a Member of ECSC
Mrs. Hamm stated the Board has been discussing new Policy language dealing with the death of a
member of ECSC. At this time, Mrs. Hamm stated she was not sure the Board was ready to move on the
suggested policy and asked if anyone have any questions or concerns. There were no questions or
concerns. Mr. Arkanoff stated he would bring the policy back for first reading at the December Board
meeting.
B. Approval of 2010-2011 Athletic Handbook Changes
Mr. Arkanoff stated a couple of changes to the Athletic Handbook were approved at the October Board
meeting. Mr. Jordan, Athletic Director, is asking for approval of the Athletic Handbook as a whole. Mr.
Streeval asked if Section F, which deals with insurance has been updated. Mr. Arkanoff stated yes. Mr.
Streeval stated this section encourages parents to take out insurance on their child in case they were to
get injured and to make sure the parents understand that the school’s liability is limited. Mr. Streeval
moved and Mr. Hoskinson seconded a motion to approve the 2010-2011 Athletic Handbook as
presented. The motion carried unanimously.
CONCERNED CITIZEN COMMENTS
Angela Kelsay, speaking on behalf of Tracy Beier, read a letter of concern (attached) to the Board and
audience. Mrs. Hamm thanked Ms. Kelsay for speaking on behalf of the Concerned Citizen group.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mrs. Hamm asked that any individual who would like to speak stand and state their name. Each
individual will be given two minutes to speak.
Micah Heath stated he is a sixth grade teacher at Edinburgh Middle School and started off by saying
Edinburgh is not the first corporation he has worked at and he absolutely loves working here. He has
enjoyed working with both staff and administrators over the past couple of years. While working with
the building administrators, he has always felt like a colleague, not a subordinate. The administrator’s
demeanor has always been cordial towards him. Administrators and teachers interact with both staff and
students, and relate on a personal basis, which is not something you see in a bigger corporation. Mr.

Heath stated at the last school corporation he was at he did not know what the Superintendent’s name
was, but here he has worked closely with, and appreciates, the building principals and Superintendent.
Paula Wright stated she feels that schools are a reflection of the community and she would like to share
some thoughts of Edinburgh. Mrs. Wright has chosen to stay here for the past eighteen years and feels
privileged to be able to work in the school system. She has never felt that it’s “us against parents”. We
all love the kids in this town and want what’s best for them. Mrs. Wright stated when she thinks about
Edinburgh and the school, this is what she thinks about: Edinburgh cares for their sick in ways others
towns do not; Edinburgh helps their neighbors during crisis and disasters; Edinburgh comforts their
grieving; Edinburgh watches out for their elderly that are in the community and surrounding
communities; Edinburgh gives when there is nothing else to give; Edinburgh offers hope to the lost,
always; Edinburgh understands imperfections and mistakes and allows for them to be growing points;
Edinburgh extends second chances; Edinburgh teaches loyalty to family, and that family is Edinburgh.
Mrs. Wright stated this is what Edinburgh and Edinburgh Schools is about and she wouldn’t want to be
anywhere else. Edinburgh’s kids are her kids.
Kim Hobdy stated she is an Edinburgh graduate and is proud to be back here teaching. When she
applied for a teaching position, she didn’t apply anywhere but here, and she wouldn’t trade the
experience for anything. Mrs. Hobdy stated she does make a difference and everyone here makes a
difference, whether it be positive or negative. Mrs. Hobdy wanted to make it clear that she does not feel
threatened in any way. If she has an issue she feels very comfortable going to her administrator, and if
she feels the need, she feels comfortable going to Mr. Arkanoff and the Board. Mrs. Hobdy stated she
does not think anyone else feels threatened in anyway and feels that everyone can come together and
express their feelings and try to do what’s best for our children.
Mike Bryant stated he has lived in Edinburgh for 42 years and is also an Edinburgh graduate. He has
put in countless hours working with kids in many different capacities. Mr. Bryant stated he had a
concern that he would like to have addressed. His son was wrongfully accused of something while on a
field trip. He and his wife brought the situation to the principal’s attention and presented statements
from two parents who were on the field trip when the incident was supposed to have happened, a
teacher, a School Board member and the person who turned in the incident. The East Side Principal
said those statements did not matter and that she did not want to hear from those parents and teachers.
His son was considered guilty. Mr. Bryant stated he then took the incident to the Superintendent and the
Superintendent assured him that he would back the principal at East Side because she was part of the
faculty. Mr. Bryant stated he asked about justice, but it didn’t matter, the principal would be backed.
The following school year he sent his sons to school in Columbus because he did not want his kids to go
to school anywhere where they didn’t care about them. Mr. Bryant stated he brought his boys back to
Edinburgh this year and he’s not running anymore, but he would like to know what a parent can do
when they feel the administration doesn’t care. He felt helpless and didn’t know what other option he
had. He didn’t know what step to take next, so he left. Mr. Bryant stated he is back and he’s not leaving
again. Mrs. Hamm told Mr. Bryant that parents, students, staff or community members should always
feel free to share their concerns with Board Members.
Kinsey Schue stated she is a Special Education teacher at the Middle School. She started teaching in the
middle of the school year last year and she loves it here. Mrs. Schue stated she has great administrators
that worked with her and helped her with anything she needed. Ms. Schue stated earlier today she had a
question and went into the principal’s office. The principal made a couple of calls and she was able to
walk out of his office with answers. Ms. Schue stated she came to Edinburgh from a much larger
corporation where she wouldn’t have felt comfortable doing that. Ms. Schue stated she if very proud of
the administrators in this corporation.

Gary Simpson stated he is an Edinburgh graduate and his grandson is now going to East Side. He feels
his grandson has been done a great disservice by the people in charge. His daughter talked to the
Elementary Principal and Superintendent and did not feel their issue was handled to their satisfaction.
Mr. Simpson stated his daughter also talked to a couple of Board Members who agreed with them, but
things were stopped at that point. Issues with students need to be dealt with on a one-on-one basis. Mr.
Simpson feels his daughter was tuned out and he does not think that is fair.
Holly Pease stated she is the PE teacher at East Side and would like to comment on Edinburgh Pride. A
wonderful convocation was recently held at East Side called “Blue Pride”. The Indianapolis Colts’
Mascot, Blue, came to East Side. Mrs. Pease stated she has received many comments from staff and
parents who have said this is one of the best convocations they have ever had. The people responsible
for the convocation were extremely impressed with our school, students and staff and East Side has been
picked to go to the “Blue Pride” challenge. Mrs. Pease thanked everyone who helped out with the
convocation in any way.
Tiffany Kern stated she is a Middle School teacher and is very proud to be part of Edinburgh. Everyone,
including administrators and staff, helped her out a lot her first year here. Mrs. Kern stated she always
feels comfortable talking to her administrators and they were always willing to help her.
Sandy Gillespie stated she started out at the elementary school and was transferred to the middle school
this year. She has been in more than one school in her lifetime, and in Edinburgh she has watched
people reach out the hands to love, feed, clothe and teach the children. Mrs. Gillespie is so proud to say
that she is a teacher at Edinburgh and will continue to support her administrators and stand with her head
held high. Mrs. Gillespie has never felt as supported and special as a teacher, and everyone should feel
proud they are here for the kids and what we are able to give to the kids.
Sheila Simpson stated she and her son are Edinburgh graduates and she supports the school system and
Edinburgh, as well as the children. Like it or not, these children are our future and will one day be
making the decisions that will affect the economy, etc. We need to make sure these students come out
with a great education and not allow any student to fall through the cracks
Rachel Matusik is a Middle School teacher who also started working in the middle of a school year. She
was excited to be able to work at Edinburgh and the principals and school staff have made her time here
great. Ms. Matusik stated she is happy to say that she feels comfortable going to her administrators and
colleague at any time.
Autumn Humbaugh stated she is a Middle School teacher who started in Edinburgh last year. She
previously worked at another corporation and felt intimated about asking for help. Here she felt
welcome from her first day and she has always been able to go to her administrators. Mrs. Humbaugh
stated she loves working in this corporation.
Julie Leonard stated she knows a lot of great teachers and administrators in Edinburgh, but not all those
teachers are here. If she was a teacher in Edinburgh she wouldn’t get up at a Board meeting and
complain. It is great that all these people that have spoken tonight feel that way, but there are issues that
should be checked into and she doesn’t feel the issues will stop here. There is too much bullying and
lying to teachers, and parents and community members are not let known what is going on. Ms.
Leonard stated she is glad that the teachers here tonight are happy, but she has never worked for a
corporation that has had these types of problems. She does not know what she’d do, but she certainly
wouldn’t voice her concerns for fear of losing her job.

Gail Hoffman stated she supports the administration, Board, and counselors. In the fourteen years she
has worked at the school, there have been a lot of different administrators come and go. Mrs. Hoffman
stated she feels Edinburgh has the best group of administrators right now than it has ever had.
Bob Straugh stated he graduated from Edinburgh and has worked at the school for twelve years. This is
a great place. Mr. Straugh lives in Columbus, but plans for his children to attend the Edinburgh Schools.
Mr. Straugh has pride in the school, the Board, the Superintendent, the wonderful teachers and staff, the
students, and the community. We have awesome kids going here. Mr. Straugh loves working here,
loves the staff, and loves knowing that his boys can go to such an awesome school.
Linda Burton stated her father used to have an expression, “Don’t throw out the baby with the
bathwater”. With everything that’s been said, mistakes are sometimes made, but the bottom line is that
there is caring here. Mrs. Burton stated one time a student accused her of cursing at them. Mrs. Burton
stated anyone that knows her would know that was not true. She was afraid something would come out
of the incident, but she went to her administrator and was told that it would be straightened out, and it
was. Mrs. Burton stated if she had something negative to say, she wouldn’t care to stand there and say
it. If she lost her job it would be because she wasn’t doing her job. There are some things that can’t be
told due to privacy issue. Mrs. Burton stated if she had done something wrong and was let go, she
personally would not want the situation being talked about in public meetings. Mrs. Burton stated the
administrators do a wonderful job and she wouldn’t hesitate to go to them with any problem or concern.
Amy Littikin stated she agrees about the privacy issues, but she knows parents haven’t been told
anything about the teacher who was escorted out of school. If a child’s teacher is going to be changed
during the school year, parents should be told.
Bertha Bailey stated she has worked in the school system for years and has had three children attend
school here in Edinburgh, two of them graduated from Edinburgh and the other would have but was
killed in an accident before he was able to graduate. Mrs. Bailey stated she now has grandchildren
attending Edinburgh that have transferred here, and they love it. Mrs. Bailey stated she love it here and
wanted to make it clear that she did not have a bit of fear to say anything to her administrators.
Mrs. Gillespie wanted to make it clear that she did not have a bit of fear to say anything to her
administrators. Other teachers and school staff present agreed with Mrs. Gillespie’s statement.
Kevin Rockey stated he is proud of the school and community. Mr. Rockey recognized Lisa Chandler
with Lancer Pride for taking the initiative to work on a math program before and after school along with
Mr. Chase. Mrs. Chandler has really gone above and beyond the call of duty. The students have done
what it takes to work towards passing the ECA and have risen to the challenge. Mr. Rockey recognized
Dana Chandler with Lancer Pride for always going out of her way to do what’s best for her students.
Mrs. Chandler took the time to set up a valuable field trip to Butler University to perform with choirs
from other Indiana schools. Our students and Choral program were right with the other schools from
across the state. This was an outstanding opportunity that Mrs. Chandler made possible for our students.
Mr. Rockey stated the schools has been spending a lot of time working on bullying issues and figuring
out the best way to inform students on what to do in case bullying happens to them. The Peer Mentors
and Mrs. Kahl have been doing a good job working on bullying issues as well, and have used videos and
information from YouTube to create lessons for homerooms.
Christina Graham stated she has two children in the Edinburgh School system and her daughter brought
home a slip the other day from the Assistant Principal and she could hardly read his handwriting. Ms.
Graham stated she feels this needs to be worked on.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS

Mr. Arkanoff stated there are things that can’t be discussed due to privacy issues, and that there are
always two sides to every story. Administration bears the burden of not being able to share information
when dealing with individual employees. Sometimes something might get said that shouldn’t, but the
bottom line is that we can’t share that information with people. Mr. Arkanoff respects everyone he has
ever worked with and he has never met a teacher that was intimidated by him. Staff members must feel
comfortable enough to come to his office with questions or concerns because they do all the time. On
the issue of retention, this issue is discussed among a group and is not just the principal’s decision. The
principal works with all those who are involved in the child’s education to determine the best placement
for that child. Mr. Arkanoff stated yes he is the Special Education Director for Edinburgh, but he
answers to Dr. Pam Wright at Johnson County Special Services who oversees all special education in
the county. If someone is not happy with a decision, their next step would be through Special Services.
Mr. Arkanoff stated it is difficult to make some decisions when trying to make improvements and raise
standards. Edinburgh has had a lot of success these last eight years due to increasing standards for all.
We have been working hard to improve everyday. Mr. Arkanoff stated the ultimate goal is to help our
students win big.
Mr. Streeval thanked everyone for attending the meeting and stated they, as a Board, are not perfect and
sometimes make mistakes. Mr. Streeval stated there are some things which can’t be discussed with the
public. Edinburgh is a community that works things out and always tries to do what is best. Sometime
we don’t all agree with what we think is best. Mr. Streeval stated the Board will look over the issues
addressed in Ms. Kelsay’s letter and see if things can get better. Mr. Streeval stated he appreciates
everyone coming out tonight and he has never had a problem with staff or members of the community
telling him what they think. That is part of being a small community.
Mrs. Taulman stated she is happy to see the schools being proactive with the Policy Manual and
NEOLA. Mrs. Taulman stated she is sad to see Mrs. West leaving and feels she has always done a good
job as a nurse. Mrs. Taulman stated she is glad to see the schools being proactive with bullying, and
feels we need to continue being proactive. Mrs. Taulman stated it was good to see members of the
community here tonight and felt Ms. Kelsey did a good job with her letter and hopes to see some
changes made.
Mrs. Weddle stated she is sad to see Mrs. West retire. Mrs. Weddle thanked everyone for attending the
meeting. Mrs. Weddle stated she and the Board make the best informed decisions they can and stated
she appreciates all the comments, support and concern.
Mr. Hoskinson congratulated Mrs. West on her retirement. Mr. Hoskinson congratulated the two new
Board Members, Guy Hardin and Justin Lollar, who will take their seats in January and feels both will
do a good job.
Mrs. Hamm thanked everyone for attending the meeting and reminded everyone that the Board meets on
the third Monday of each month. Mrs. Hamm invited everyone to continue attending Board meetings to
find out what’s going on in the schools. Mrs. Hamm stated the Board has had the Consent Agenda for
three years now, and any item can be pulled from the Consent Agenda to be discussed at any time. Mrs.
Hamm reminded everyone that the next scheduled Board meeting is December 20 th . Mrs. Hamm stated
if anyone would like to volunteer to serve on the ECSC Program Review Task Force, they should
contact Mr. Arkanoff. The Task Force will be a good way to get a lot of answers answered about all the
programs offered at Edinburgh. The Task Force will be a twelve to eighteen month ongoing process
with the first meeting scheduled tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Building. Mrs. Hamm
stated anyone who can donate some of their time for the corporation and community would be greatly
appreciated. Mrs. Hamm commended everyone involved in East Sides talent show. It was unbelievable

to see those young students up on stage performing. It was heart-warming. The Talent Show was put
on by the East Side Pride Boosters, and it was a fun night. Mrs. Hamm applauded those involved.
ADJOURNMENT
Mr. Streeval moved and Mrs. Weddle seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:40 p.m. The
motion passed unanimously.
_________________________________ _________________________________________
CATHY HAMM, PRESIDENT ALICE TAULMAN, MEMBER
_________________________________ _________________________________________
RON STREEVAL, VICE-PRESIDENT KIM WEDDLE, MEMBER
_________________________________
JOHN HOSKINSON, SECRETARY

The following statement was read by Angela Kelsay. Individual school employee names
were removed due to confidentiality.
First, I would like to say that I am proud, long-standing citizen of this community. My son is the
fourth generation to attend Edinburgh Community Schools. When I have addressed issues with
the school they have generally been handled promptly and satisfactorily. Unfortunately, this has
not been the case with many others. I want to be clear that matters being raised today do not
come from a position of malice. I do not wish to bring bad publicity to our school or our
community. The intent of this discussion is to foster a more transparent school system and, in
turn, an improved educational experience for our children.
As you are likely aware there was a community meeting held to discuss concerns about our
school. To be quite frank, I was hesitant to attend because I did not want to participate in
unproductive complaining and rumors. What I heard, instead, was quite astounding. I listened
to recurring, well-founded concerns from parents, former teachers, and former ESPA members
alike. This meeting revealed what appears to be systematic inflexibility to opposition,
misinformation (sometimes to the point of outright lying), and repercussions towards those who
have contested administrative decisions. Following are some of the experiences shared, as well
as questions raised.
When budget cuts result in teacher termination, how is it determined who loses their job?
The Superintendent said that a former teacher was taking days off because his son was
sick when, in actuality, he had been put on administrative leave. This is first hand
information from the former teacher and should be addressed. Feel free to contact Ms.
Kelsay for further information.
The Superintendent told Jessica Purvis, a parent of a child in her class, that a former
teacher was on medical leave which was not true. This may be verified by contacting
Ms. Purvis.
It was rumored that the Superintendent instructed staff not to attend the Community
Meeting held last Tuesday. Is this true and, if so, why?
Did the Superintendent tell staff or students that a former teacher had to take time off to
care for her mother when she had actually resigned for other reasons?
Why weren't parents notified that a former teacher was suspended?
What is the policy in place for evaluating teachers: methods used, evaluators used, and
frequency?
When a child's parents, teachers, as well as a professional outside evaluator feel that a
child should be retained, why is the Principal allowed the sole authority to deny the
retention?
What is the “Improvement Plan” packet that some teachers have received? How long is
it? How long do teachers have to complete it? And, if completed, what is the desired
objective?
The entire ESPA resigned due to lack of support, cooperation, and appreciation from the
administration. This is a group of parents that volunteer their time, without an agenda,
because they wish to support the children of East Side. What would propel an obviously

dedicated group of individuals to just “give up?” Feel free to contact Tracy Beier, former
ESPA president, with inquiries.
According to Eastside’s handbook the Parent Involvement Policy is as follow:
“East Side Elementary continues its commitment to establishing, strengthening and expanding
ongoing, effective school/family partnerships. Our goal is to support adults as lifelong learners
and to provide a variety of opportunities that invite parents to become actively involved as their
child’s teacher, supporter, communicator and advocate. Together, parents, schools and
community build shared responsibility for supporting student achievement.” Experiences
presented by many parents have shown that our school is falling far short of this commitment.
According to page 15 of the East Side handbook, parents have the right to be involved in the
review and implementation guidelines set forth. Following, I will present policies that should be
revised or removed. These revisions will create a more transparent school and create a system of
checks and balances.
Currently, administration is not required to notify parents that the teacher is replaced or
being substituted, as long as the new person is qualified. A provision that requires
notification within a week should be put in place.
Stated several times, in bold letter, the principal has sole discretion
concerning: retention, promotion, and assignment. Such decisions should be made in
collaboration with parents, teachers, teachers’ aids, and the principal. If only one person
has final decision on these matters, it should be the person who is directly involved daily
activities surrounding the child’s education: the teacher.
All questions pertaining to special education students should be directed to a special
education coordinator in the school corporation. Currently, the coordinator is also the
superintendent. So if a parent gets a negative response to questions regarding their child,
they have no other place to turn.
It should be made policy that if a teacher is suspended or placed on administrative leave
that the parents should be notified immediately. Furthermore they should be informed of
why the staff member was suspended as unacceptable behavior that caused a suspension
is likely to have affected students’ educational experience. If this is considered
privileged information in current teacher contracts upcoming contracts should be revised
to include such a provision.
Parents should be given results of all tests including but not limited to Diebels, NWEA,
and ISTEP without request.
Finally, the “No Rescue Policy” should be rescinded or profoundly revised. It is not
implemented in the middle or high school, where students are old enough to be held more
accountable. What adult here today can honestly say that they haven’t left the house,
forgot something, and had to return to retrieve it? The idea that a six-year-old should be
responsible enough to remember every item he or she needs for each of the 180 days in
the school year is absolutely ludicrous.

Once again, I want to make it clear that this is not an attack on the school corporation as a
whole. Rather, this is an attempt to identify and eliminate the “my way or the highway” attitude
developed by a very select few individuals. Parents and teachers should not be hesitant to
disagree with administration for fear of repercussion.
I sincerely believe that the vast majority of people employed by Edinburgh Community School
are hard-working and want nothing more than the best for our kids. On that note I would like to
commend those who have stood up, in face of pressure, for students’ best interests. Please be
aware that this includes a teacher who, not so long ago, was nominated for the Golden Apple and
Teacher of the Year awards. This teacher is currently suspended.
Each of you will be provided with the questions and concerns that were raised here today. A
similar copy will be provided to any community members who request it. I am confident that
this board is amongst those who are interested in maintaining a successful and transparent school
system. In this spirit, I look forward to learning the results of your inquiries as well as the
actions taken at the next school board meeting. Thank you for your time.