SOUTHWEST DUBOIS SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

The accomplishments of students and teachers, past and present, highlighted the agenda at the Southwest Dubois County School Corporation meeting on Thursday night. 

A number of recent student accomplishments were mentioned, including seven Huntingburg Elementary fourth grade students from Mrs. Riehle’s class who were recently published in this year’s Anthology of Poetry by Young Americans. Sixth grader Katie Thacker’s essay for the DAR History Essay Contest was selected to move on to the state competition, and Southridge High School celebrated a number of athletic and artistic accomplishments of students this year, along with 38 students who have achieved more than 30 college credits before their high school graduation. 

The board noted a number of important “hirings” and “retirings.” Of particular note was Steve Winkler, who is retiring after more than forty years of service, as well as a recent graduate who was in attendance and has recently been hired as a long-term substitute teacher. When asked about the importance of hiring and the legacy of teachers in the district, board Vice-President John Schroeder said, “I think across the board, one of the things that we’re looking for - obviously it’s nice to have people with a track record of good experience – but also, we’re looking for folks that are just passionate about kids and about teaching. Whether it’s teaching or administration, we really are looking for people that want to be in this business, because it’s hard. There’s no doubt. The evolution of things over the years have made it very, very difficult. And the pool of teacher is smaller than it’s ever been. So, we’re looking for people that want to be a part of our mission, and that’s why we really focus on getting the culture of the school and the direction that we’re going and find people that fit that.” 

 Southwest Dubois County School Corporation regular board meetings are open to the public and are held on the third Thursday of the month from 5:30-6:30. The SWDCS board room is located at 105 W Sunset Dr., Huntingburg IN. 

For more information on these and other updates, visit www.swdubois.k12.in.us/school-board

 - Drew Hasselbring