Regular Business Meeting of the Board of School Trustees

Monday, August 25, 2025
6:00 p.m.
Administration Center, 1050 S. Main Street

1. Opening Items

2. Board of School Trustees Resolution of Commendation Awards

2.01 CPHS Crown Town Media CPTV/Dog Radio National & State Awards

• The Board recognized Crown Point High School Crown Town Media and Dog Radio for earning multiple top honors, including national, state, and regional awards for news, talk shows, and sports programming. 
• Coaches Brent Barber and Chris Gloff highlighted the program’s growth, competitive success, and the exceptional dedication of students who have achieved at the highest levels, even competing nationally against major programs. These accomplishments demonstrate how the journalism program equips students with real-world media experience and skills that open pathways to future careers.
• Students: Trent Josleyn, Ryan Welsh, Ariana Pantoja, MiRey Fernandez, Aiden Hielema, Jordan Manojlovic, Robert Swiedals, Sarah Helbasko, David Pineda, Gabe Trevino, Braydon Zamojski, Brandon Boling, Gavin Chambers, Rico Ardister, Cameron Qualls; Coaches: Brent Barber, Chris Gloff 

3. Patrons’ Comments

• No patrons registered to speak.

4. Consent Agenda (Dr. Terrill)

• 4.01 July 28, 2025 Regular Business Meeting Minutes
• 4.02 Personnel Agenda
• 4.03 Recommendation for Employment of Candidates pursuant to IC 20-26-5-11.2
• 4.04 Voucher Register Checks #177302–177768 and Vouchers #305734–306511

5. Action Items

• 5.01 Approval to Apply for IDOE Formative Assessment Grant
  • Mr. Gianfermi explained that the grant will provide approximately $68,000 to help purchase key assessments for grades K–10, including tools that measure early literacy and math progress, as well as screeners for dyslexia. These resources strengthen data-driven instruction and ensure educators can identify learning needs early to support student success.
• 5.02 Approval to Apply for IDOE STEM Integration Grant
  • Mr. Gianfermi outlined plans to use this competitive grant to expand STEM learning for students in grades K–8 through additional lab resources, coding tools, and teacher professional development. The initiative will support thousands of students with engaging opportunities to build foundational skills in science, technology, engineering, and math.
• 5.03 Resolution #863 Supplemental Payments
  • Mr. Equihua reviewed the continuation of supplemental payments previously under the teacher contract, which helps maintain competitive compensation. This commitment supports teacher retention and morale, ensuring stability and strong instructional continuity for students.

6. Information/Recognition Items

• 6.01 Superintendent’s Discussion Groups
• 6.02 Director of Elementary Education – Dr. Ciochina
  • Dr. Ciochina reported that IREAD scores rose to 94.6%, surpassing last year’s rate and nearing the district goal of 95%. Four schools exceeded the target. He also shared plans for High Ability Parent Nights in September to strengthen family engagement and collaboration for students in advanced programs.
• 6.03 Director of Exceptional Education – Mrs. Paskis
  • Mrs. Paskis noted an increase in new exceptional education students, from 75 last year to 89 this year. She described the transition to the state’s new IEP platform and the launch of a Special Education Parent Advisory Council, which brings parents and educators together to improve services and ensure students with disabilities receive the resources they need for success.
• 6.04 Assistant Superintendent – Mr. Gianfermi
  • Mr. Gianfermi introduced new School Resource Officers who will strengthen safety and build positive relationships with students. He also highlighted the district’s digital literacy grant, which funds training on responsible AI use and tools like Magic School, helping teachers guide students in safe and effective use of technology.
• 6.05 Chief Human Resources Officer – Mr. Equihua 
  • Mr. Equihua thanked the Crown Point Lions Club for donating backpacks filled with supplies for students in need, helping ensure all students start the year with essential learning tools.
• 6.06 Chief Financial Officer – Mr. Ruess
  • Mr. Ruess reported that enrollment is currently up by 75 students, potentially surpassing 9,000 for the first time, though numbers may adjust. He noted this growth, along with state funding challenges, will influence future resource planning to meet the needs of a growing student population.
• 6.07 Director of Communications – Mrs. Allen
  • Mrs. Allen shared that the district maintains a 100% parent contactability rate through ParentSquare, ensuring families stay informed. An emergency message test is scheduled this week to confirm communication systems remain reliable for important notifications affecting students’ schedules and safety.
• 6.08 Superintendent of Schools – Dr. Terrill
  • Dr. Terrill thanked staff for a smooth start to the school year and acknowledged the behind-the-scenes work that ensures a positive learning environment for students from day one.

7. Other Business of the Board of School Trustees

• Board members reflected on back-to-school experiences, noting strong communication with parents, successful transition events for students, and the efforts of staff to make the start of the school year welcoming and organized.

8. Board Statements of Appreciation and Recognition

• Board members expressed appreciation for staff dedication, transportation teams, and custodians, highlighting their role in creating safe, welcoming environments that support student learning. Opening events and meet-the-teacher nights were recognized as positive experiences that strengthen family-school connections.