Policies governing when and how school board members may attend meetings outside of regular board and committee sessions will return to the board’s Policy Committee for revised language.
Board members appeared divided on how the policy should be written. In the end, the board voted 6-1 to direct administrators to work with the Policy Committee on updated language. The committee consists of board members Dawn Lang and Juanita Albright.
In other action Wednesday night:
–Teachers have completed their health insurance plan selections, and under the union contract, Hamilton Southeastern Schools will make a one-time contribution to teachers’ Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) as follows:
Employee only: $340
Employee + spouse: $465
Employee + child(ren): $465
Family: $595
–The district also approved replacing iPad devices for students in kindergarten, fifth grade and ninth grade as part of its regular technology refresh cycle. One speaker during public comment urged the board not to approve the new devices.
In addition, the board approved replacing network hardware at the following schools:
Fall Creek Intermediate
Riverside Intermediate
Sand Creek Intermediate
HSE Intermediate / Junior High
–Board members approved a measure authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds.
–Hamilton Southeastern Intermediate Junior High School sixth grader Hannah Ginther was recognized for her resilience and service to others. Hannah has been named a 2026 Riley Champion, a statewide honor presented to patients who demonstrate courage in the face of serious medical challenges while giving back to their communities.
Hannah underwent a life-saving heart transplant as a young child and has remained closely connected to Riley Hospital for Children. Inspired by activities that brought her comfort during extended hospital stays, Hannah and her family donate Play-Doh to the Riley Cheer Guild to support other young patients. She has also shared her story publicly to encourage families facing similar medical journeys.
Now 11, Hannah plays volleyball and basketball and cheers on her sisters at their games. School officials say she continues to embrace life with the same joy and resilience that led to her selection as a Riley Champion.