Submitted by Sheridan Community Schools
Sheridan Community Schools is buzzing with anticipation as the new school year approaches.
With 16 new faculty members joining the district, Superintendent Dave Mundy said he is confident their expertise will significantly impact both the district and the community.
“We are thrilled to welcome these top-notch educators from across the county and state,” Mundy said. “Their presence will undoubtedly strengthen our academic programs.”
The district has also completed the much-anticipated Fieldhouse and turf project. Sports teams and especially the band are already on the field, gearing up for the new season. The ongoing softball project marks the final outdoor development for now, with future plans focusing on building enhancements.
Photo provided by Sheridan Community Schools (Photo provided by Sheridan Community Schools)
“We are diligently planning for the next five to eight years and are excited about what the future holds for Sheridan,” Mundy added.
Enrollment is on the rise, adding to the vibrant and productive atmosphere expected this year.
Sheridan Elementary School
Embracing growth & new initiatives
At Sheridan Elementary School, Principal Valerie Roberts said she is enthusiastic about the upcoming year. Mrs. Lindsey Martin will begin the year as the new instructional coach.
“Mrs. Martin will be partnering with our teachers to improve classroom effectiveness,” Roberts explained. “Her role is to model best practices and grow alongside our educators.”
The elementary school’s theme for the year is “Growing Together,” reflecting a commitment to fostering a growth mindset and cultivating exceptional students.
“We are excited to welcome our students with renewed energy and a full slate of outstanding teachers,” Roberts said.
New staff members at Sheridan Elementary include Amanda Williams, SES Counselor; Amanda Crussel, 5th Grade Teacher; Bailey Doyle, Special Education Teacher; Madi Stevens, 1st Grade Teacher; Jordan Johnson, Kindergarten Teacher; and Addy Weaver, Resident Teacher from IUK.
“We are eager to welcome all our students, both new and returning,” Roberts continued. “Our goal is to help each child meet their academic goals and plant the seeds of lifelong success.”
Sheridan Elementary students enjoying summer school. (Photo provided by Sheridan Community Schools)
Sheridan Middle School
New opportunities & facilities
Sheridan Middle School is also experiencing growth, with enrollment currently at 276 students in grades 6 to 8. Principal Kent Davis highlighted the opportunities available for eighth graders to earn high school credits in Physical Education, Preparing for College & Careers, and Personal Finance.
“We are excited about the new learning spaces in the United Animal Health Blackhawk Fieldhouse,” Davis said. “It’s a fresh start for teaching, learning, and activities.”
Over the summer, the middle school focused on hiring new staff and planning for the year ahead. The school is now fully staffed with new members: Laura Johnson, Special Education; Toni Hillman, Math; and McKaylie Kinkead, Art.
“We look forward to the dynamic process of a new school year,” Davis added. “Our partnership with parents is crucial in helping students learn and grow, preparing them with the skills to become successful Sheridan High School graduates.”
Sheridan High School
Expanding programs & preparing for changes
Sheridan High School continues to see slight growth in enrollment, a trend that Principal Rick Davis said he finds exciting. The school is introducing new courses in Business and Education Pathways, a new graduation pathway in Exercise Science, and additional offerings like AP Microeconomics and additional Dual Credit English.
“The new school year brings the excitement of welcoming incoming freshmen and new students,” Davis said. “We are expanding our Early College Program and enhancing our overall curriculum and instructional practices.”
Summer was a busy time for the high school, filled with hiring new personnel, planning for new courses, preparing facilities, and setting goals for the 2024-25 school year. New staff members include: Ellie Arrowood, English; Tanya Busailah, English; Kristen Perry, Spanish; Jessica Line, Math; Bethany Mineart, Counselor; Nissa Sompels, Counselor; Sandi Byle, Exercise Science (also current Athletic Trainer); and Aleah Caraballo, Sheridan Youth Assistance.
“The daily interactions, teaching, and learning make our school vibrant and dynamic,” Davis shared. However, he expressed concerns about the uncertainty surrounding the new Indiana High School Diploma requirements for the Class of 2029.
“The final version has yet to be provided by the State, creating challenges in planning and preparing our students for graduation,” he said. He expressed confidence that SHS will be prepared and do whatever it takes to make sure Sheridan students meet the new requirements.
Davis emphasized the importance of parental involvement.
“We want parents to know that they are essential partners in the educational process,” he said. “We look forward to working with them to ensure their child’s success all the way through graduation.”
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With so many new initiatives, facilities, and staff members, Sheridan Community Schools is poised for an exceptional year. As Superintendent Mundy put it, “Let’s make this year the best one yet!”