Students in the Washington Community Schools will have the opportunity to be part of a cutting-edge curriculum in microelectronics. Representatives from Crane, Purdue University, and Regional Opportunities Initiatives are partnering with Washington along with two other southern Indiana schools to develop career pathways and internships for high school students. WHS science teacher Susie Hawthorne said that Crane, Purdue, and the high-tech companies like what they see in Washington. Washington has been asked to help develop a national stem curriculum integration program for grades K–12. Hawthorne said it is exciting that our students get to be part of this cutting-edge program. Integration Specialist Patti Allen showed the board members a diagram of the STEM curriculum for kindergarten through grade 8. Assistant Superintendent Steve Peterson said Washington will be “embedding employability skills” in Washington students. Matt Riney discussed the program moving forward in high school. The objective of the program is to equip students for the upcoming employment opportunities in the microchip production industry moving into the area.
In personnel matters, the board received the resignation of junior high art teacher Emily Vaught-Kueller effective at the end of the semester and approved several ECA appointments. The Board also approved hiring Sara Cockerham and Logan Chamness as bus drivers.
In other business, the board approved a request from band director Brian Burris for the Winter Winds to participate in a national competition in Dayton, Ohio, in April. The Board also approved contracts with Dr. James Halik to conduct a facility review and with Jerome McKibben to complete a 10-year population/enrollment forecast. Washington is one of the few school systems outside the Indianapolis urban area to see a growth in enrollment. This year, Washington High School has an enrollment of 816 students, compared to less than 750 just a few years ago.
