Crown Point Community School Corporation Board Meeting Summary

September 22, 2025 - 6:00 PM

Opening Items 

• Mr. Smith called the meeting to order, followed by Mr. Vassar leading the Pledge of Allegiance and moment of silence.

Board Commendation Awards 

• Mr. Smith presented commendation awards to Crown Point Police Department Sergeant Stanko Gligic (6 years as D.A.R.E. officer) and retired Sergeant Dave Benson (12 years as D.A.R.E. officer) for their exemplary service to thousands of Crown Point students. 

Public Hearing - 2026 Budget 

• Mr. Ruess (Chief Financial Officer) presented the 2026 budget highlights:

Consent Agenda 

Action Items

Secure School Safety Grant   - Mr. Gianfermi (Assistant Superintendent) requested approval to accept $80,097.52 from Indiana Department of Homeland Security for School Resource Officer salaries and benefits. This is a matching grant requiring 100% local match. 

Out-of-Country Field Trip  - Mrs. Ramirez (Director of Secondary Education) requested approval for Crown Point High School students to travel to Germany/Italy June 22-30, 2027. The educational trip focuses on robotics, engineering, and automotive technology for eligible students. Cost: $4,389 per student. 

Policy Revision  - Mr. Equihua (Chief Human Resource Officer) presented updates to Policy 7510 (Use of School Facilities), adding language requiring superintendent or designee approval for certain facility uses. 

Information/Recognition Items

Elementary Education Update Dr. Ciochina reported on professional development during the recent e-learning day, focusing on writing instruction alignment across elementary grades. Upcoming ILEARN checkpoints begin in October for grades 3-8.

Secondary Education Update Mrs. Ramirez highlighted the successful College and Career Fair (September 4) with 50+ post-secondary institutions, plus middle school career exploration event. Upcoming events include College Go Week, homecoming (October 3-4), PSAT testing (October 9), and fall concerts.

Assistant Superintendent Update Mr. Gianfermi reported on presenting to the Philanthropic Educational Organization alongside district staff, receiving positive feedback. Announced the annual parent safety presentation scheduled for October 20 at 6:00 p.m. at the Administration Center.

Human Resources Update Mr. Equihua thanked transportation, technology, food service, and buildings/grounds departments for helping 1,390 employees transition to the new Frontline tutorial system. Also expressed appreciation for retiring D.A.R.E. officers and praised the Chamber of Commerce's new middle school career exploration event.

Financial Officer Update Mr. Ruess had no items to report.

Communications Update Mrs. Allen reported on implementing weekly digital forms sent to all schools, resulting in over 230 responses in 20 school days. The system helps track building activities and ensures equitable coverage across grade levels and schools.

Superintendent Update Dr. Terrill shared positive student feedback about the new middle school math curriculum and reported on presenting Crown Point's achievements to Secretary Jenner at a Crossroads Chamber meeting, noting the district outperformed state benchmarks in all highlighted areas including graduation pathways, dual credits, and literacy rates.

Board Recognition Statements 

• Board members recognized the media department's professionalism, school crossing guards, and reiterated appreciation for retiring D.A.R.E. officers. Upcoming Wizard of Oz production at Crown Point High School was highlighted.

Meeting adjourned at 55:49