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BOARD MEETING RECAP (MARCH 25 WORK SESSION)
Board Work Session Recap
March 25, 2025
Warsaw Percussion Ensemble Recognized
The board had a privilege to start the afternoon with a performance by the Warsaw Percussion Ensemble, featuring their 2025 show Stream of Consciousness. The group recently placed 4th out of 20 at the IPA Prelim State Competition, finishing less than one point from first place.
This year marks the ensemble’s 28th consecutive trip to State Finals, making Warsaw the only school in Indiana to have qualified every year since the competition began. Director Mark Ziegler expressed pride in the group’s consistent excellence. Their State Finals performance will take place on Saturday, March 29 at 11:34 AM at ISU’s Hulman Center in Terre Haute.
Down Syndrome Awareness Highlighted
In recognition of World Down Syndrome Day (March 21), Fabiola Nunez, Digital Learning Specialist, presented to the board along with her daughters Sofia, Samary, and Sara, a Washington student with Down Syndrome.
Fabiola was joined by Angie Madeford, Speech and Language Pathologist, and Summer Voss, Special Education Teacher. Together, they shared examples of visual supports, total communication strategies and flexible seating that help all students thrive. They highlighted not only academic accommodations but also Sara’s involvement in the wider community—from skating and horseback riding to performances and library outings.
Rachelle Himes Named Indiana School Nurse of the Year
Rachelle Himes, School Nurse at Leesburg Elementary, was honored as the Indiana School Nurse of the Year by the Indiana Association of School Nurses. She will be recognized at both the National Conference in Austin, Texas this June and at the Indiana State Conference in November.
Described as calm, knowledgeable and highly responsive, Rachelle supports more than 560 students and 80 staff members at Leesburg. She is known for her trauma-informed approach, mentorship of fellow nurses and commitment to both student health and well-being. Leesburg Principal Nathan Polston and others praised her as a vital part of the school community, highlighting her impact across behavioral support teams and crisis response.
Welcome Center Supports New Students and Families
Tracey Akers, Welcome Center Coordinator, provided an update on the first year of the WCS Welcome Center, which has supported 194 new students since July. The Welcome Center helps families transition into WCS by offering vision and hearing screenings, community resource referrals, guidance on school procedures and more.
Tracey shared examples of collaboration with local organizations such as the Bowen Health Clinic, VSP Vision Vouchers, YMCA Kids Club, Sleep in Heavenly Peace and more.
Dual Language Immersion Expanding to High School
Crystal Kreider, Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Instructional Coach, shared updates on the continued growth of the district’s DLI program. Beginning in fall 2025, students will be able to continue the program at Warsaw Community High School, with courses including AP Spanish and Indiana University-accredited college classes.
Students on the DLI track can earn up to 20 college credits and a Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency (COMP). Current data shows that 81% of 8th grade students were already on track to pass the AP Spanish exam when they were assessed last May. The DLI program promotes both academic and cultural growth, aiming to prepare students for college and global careers.
Next Board Meeting
The next Regular Board Meeting will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, March 31.