1. Opening Items
The school board meeting was called to order. The meeting was held one week early due to an upcoming Indiana School Board Association (ISBA) conference. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Babjack, followed by a moment of silence.

2. Board of School Trustees Commendation Awards
The Colonel Wheeler 2023-2024 Robotics Team 78151V was honored for achieving first place in Teamwork at the regional Robotics Competition and being named state runner-up in Teamwork at the Indiana State Robotics Championship. Team members Michael Lisac, Robert Popiolek, Lillian Monk, and Elliott Johnston, along with coaches Michael Early and Jennifer Pineda, were recognized for their hard work and dedication. The board commended their sportsmanship and achievements, emphasizing the rigorous effort put into preparing for competitions.

3. Public Hearing
A motion was made to suspend the regular meeting and open the public hearing for a preliminary determination on a proposed bond for buses and other transportation vehicles. The administration provided information on the project's purpose and financing. Following the presentation, the public was invited to comment on the project. There were no comments.

4. Patrons' Comments
A topic from a patron did not fall under the meeting's guidelines as it involved a personnel matter. The patron was invited to discuss the issue with the board president after the meeting.

5. Consent Agenda
The board approved the consent agenda, which included the regular business meeting minutes, personnel agenda, employment of candidates, and the voucher register. The motion passed unanimously.

6. Action Items

• Approval of the Indiana Department of Education Alternative Education Grant: The board approved applying for and receiving $1,354 in funding from the Indiana Department of Education for alternative education. The program serves approximately 40 students each year (15:00).

• Approval of Grant for Phonics Program at Winfield Elementary: The board approved a $329.50 grant from the Lake County Retired Teachers Association to fund the “Secret Stories” phonics program for two first-grade classrooms (17:00).

• Approval of Grant for Unified Sports Team at Winfield Elementary: The board accepted a $500 grant from the same association to support the Unified Sports team (19:00).

• Approval of Out-of-Country Field Trip to Spain: A trip to Spain in summer 2026 for Crown Point High School students, focusing on immersive language learning, was approved (20:23).

• Approval of Secure School Safety Grant: The board approved receiving $63,344 from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to support the salary and benefits of an additional school resource officer (22:06).

7. Information/Recognition Items

• Director of Elementary Education: Highlighted what teachers would be working on during the upcoming e-learning day, and recognized new STEM instructors for their work (27:58).

• Director of Secondary Education: Discussed a new curriculum being tested at middle schools (which will be done during upcoming e-learning day), and recognized CPHS staff for their efforts in hosting a College and Career Fair (31:35).

• Director of Exceptional Education: Shared the implementation of an online platform to track individual student goals and recognized secretary Shaun Dunn for her years of service (35:22).

• Assistant Superintendent: Outlined safety-related professional development activities for the upcoming e-learning day, including suicide prevention and crisis intervention training (38:01).

• Chief Human Resources Officer: Provided updates on the support and mentoring of new teachers through blended learning specialists (40:19).

• Chief Financial Officer: The board will discuss and finalize budget details during the next regular meeting (42:51).

• Director of Communications: Recapped hospitality initiatives for front offices in each building (43:16).

• Superintendent of Schools: Highlighted the strong support from parents and local agencies, acknowledging their role in working with schools to ensure a positive environment. Recognized ongoing community engagement efforts to improve opportunities for students and staff (45:50).

8. Other Business of the Board of School Trustees
The board discussed upcoming meetings and timelines for various policy-related matters.

9. Board Statements of Appreciation and Recognition
Board members expressed gratitude to Dr. Terrill and the school administration for their flexibility and responsiveness, particularly in dealing with the unexpected challenges of the new school year. They also praised staff for their dedication to making students feel safe and supported.

10. Adjournment