Development News for South Bend, Indiana

School Board Approves Renewals and Contracts for Key Software and Services

The board approved the annual renewal invoice for Yellow Folder online services for South Bend Community Schools, covering May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027. Yellow Folder is described as a cloud-based student records management system where schools can scan paper records or upload PDFs. The board also approved the P school messenger subscription renewal from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, for $78,610.20. Additionally, the board approved the food service procurement and consulting RFP contract, recommending 'chat' as the chosen company after evaluating two bids for the 2026-2027 school year. A special purchase for a three-year special education software subscription with Everway LLC was approved for $183,089.45, which is utilized by special education teams for IEPs and compliance services. A facilities management blanket request was approved for DA Dodd ($300,000 for plumbing, HVAC) and Keystone Cooperative ($120,000 for fuel). The job description for a District Parent Engagement Coordinator, a part-time, non-benefit position not to exceed 30 hours per week, was approved 4-3.

Public Comments Highlight Concerns on Education, Policies, and Accountability

During the public comment section, multiple speakers addressed concerns regarding educational outcomes, district policies, and financial accountability. Ben Dallas criticized the prioritization of 'radical political activism' over core education, citing low iLearn scores and advocating for the removal of 'restorative justice' and 'anti-racist curriculum.' Len Coleman expressed strong disapproval of a State Board of Accounts report, feeling that community-based organizations were unfairly portrayed as 'squandering money' and that they were not contacted for input, calling the report 'disrespectful.' Ashley Presbendowski spoke in support of a principal, Jenny Sears, emphasizing her potential and advocating for a natural learning curve. Margaret Kavanagh, representing Monastery Academy families, voiced concerns about the district's decision not to use an internally licensed candidate for leadership, citing the importance of Montessori-trained leadership, stability, and fidelity to the model. John Pachznney raised concerns about travel expenses and adherence to PDM guidelines, sharing an anecdote about an athletic coordinator's excessive spending. Tiana Batis Wadell discussed the implementation and accountability of MTSS practices, stating the problem is not the framework but the lack of fidelity. John D of Teamsters Local 364 requested recognition for security and bilingual educational specialists. Hillary Cersi highlighted the essential nature of Montessori expertise in leadership and the extensive training required, questioning why it's treated as optional. Finally, multiple speakers voiced concerns regarding the perceived lack of consultation by the State Board of Accounts and the district's process in obtaining records, emphasizing the need for better communication with community partners.

School Board Recognizes Union Representation for Bilingual Specialists, Delays Security Staff Vote

The board voted to approve the representation of bilingual educational specialists by Teamsters Local 364. This group consists of 11 or 12 employees, with nine signed cards, representing approximately 75% of the group, exceeding the 50% threshold for recognition. The vote for the representation of security staff by Teamsters Local 364 was postponed to verify the total employee count and ensure that the 29 signed cards represent more than 50% of the eligible employees. Concerns were raised about whether part-time employees are included in the total count for the security staff unit and if they are eligible to join the union.

District Provides Update on Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Implementation

The board discussed the implementation and effectiveness of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in the district. Mrs. Stewart Bridges and Anne Boehner presented an update on current MTSS practices, explaining the framework's purpose in meeting student needs through data-based problem-solving and progress monitoring across three tiers. They highlighted the importance of prevention, equity, and aligning with Department of Justice expectations. The presentation detailed the district's history with MTSS since 2019, including training for all 24 buildings using the PBIS model and the establishment of MTSS teams for all three tiers. Fidelity is measured annually, with most buildings meeting the 85% benchmark for tier one, except those with leadership inconsistencies. Direct coaching and positive reinforcement of MTSS practices are ongoing. The presentation included data on school engagement levels, showing 66.7% of schools are highly engaged, 20.8% moderately engaged, and 12.5% have low engagement. Challenges were identified, including insufficient tier 2 support for at-risk students (only 10% receiving support), the need for classroom reinforcement of skills, and more time for team collaboration. Leadership insights focused on the need for building-level budgets for MTSS, integrating academic and behavioral MTSS, and ensuring consistent implementation across all schools. The board discussed the challenges of site-based management and the need for a cultural shift towards collective MTSS practices. Concerns were raised about chronic behavior problems, academic impact during suspension, and the need for better integration of academic and behavioral MTSS.