EVSC School Board Meeting Brief
The Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation (EVSC) Board of School Trustees met Monday to discuss student achievement, facility improvements, early childhood education, and district updates. Members present were Paul Gamblin, Christopher A Kiefer, David Hollingsworth, Michael J Duckworth Sr, and Amy DeVries.
Monday, April 20, 2026 | 5:30 p.m.
The Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation (EVSC) Board of School Trustees met Monday to discuss student achievement, facility improvements, early childhood education, and district updates. Members present were Paul Gamblin, Christopher A Kiefer, David Hollingsworth, Michael J Duckworth Sr, and Amy DeVries.
Good News
The Board recognized several achievements across the district, including:
• McCutchanville, Scott, and Oak Hill elementary schools earning state recognition for reading outcomes, with more than 95% of students passing the IREAD exam
• Teacher of the Year Maren Smith
• Principal of the Year Andy Freeman
• Elementary Teacher of the Year Holly Carey
Policy Changes (Update)
The Board approved the retirement of two policies that were previously under review:
• Policy 4113.02, related to school choice options under the former No Child Left Behind Act
• Policy 5610, which addressed evaluation of instructional programs
District officials said both policies were outdated and no longer required under current law. The school choice policy was tied to federal guidelines that have since been replaced by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which shifts more control to states and local districts.
Facilities & Accessibility Updates
Updates were shared on improvements to Bosse Field and Enlow Stadium, with renovations focused on increasing accessibility and ADA accommodations. The upgrades come as the district prepares for upcoming graduation events and will create more inclusive spaces for families.
Early Childhood Education
Board members discussed concerns about kindergarten readiness, noting that more students are entering school without key social and learning skills. Expanding access to pre-K remains a priority. As part of that effort, the district is proposing parent pay rates of $75 per week for half-day programs and $190 per week for full-day programs, based on a review of regional providers to remain competitive.
Financial Update
The district reported a clean audit and stable spending, signaling strong financial management and continued confidence in how resources are being used.
Community Concerns
Board leadership addressed recent concerns about hiring practices, emphasizing that employment decisions are based on merit and that safeguards are in place to prevent conflicts of interest.
The next school board meeting is scheduled for May 4, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.
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