The Whitley County Consolidated Schools Board of Trustees met Monday, August 3, 2026, for a detailed review of long‑range facility planning, district finances, and preparations for the upcoming school year. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance before moving into a presentation on the district’s multi‑year facility improvement plan.
Director of OperationsTodd Fleetwood outlined the updated plan, describing it as a long‑range roadmap designed to preserve district facilities and guide financial decision‑making. Fleetwood noted that the plan is refreshed every two years and incorporates input from central office staff and the district’s two licensed maintenance technicians.
“This plan is more of a long‑range roadmap for maintaining and improving district facilities… This helps us prioritize projects, plan ahead and make informed financial decisions," Fleetwood said. He emphasized that in‑house expertise has saved the district hundreds of thousands of dollars on recent renovation and demolition projects.
Fleetwood also addressed the impact of recent changes in Indiana’s property tax laws, explaining that Senate Bill 1 has made tax‑rate management more challenging. As a result, the district is shifting toward levy‑based planning to ensure long‑term stability while continuing to maintain facilities responsibly.
The board then heard from Matt Schumaker of Stifel, a financial advisor and Columbia City graduate, who presented an overview of the district’s debt position and future bonding strategy.
Schumaker praised the district’s long‑term planning, noting that WCCS is in a rare position to complete major capital projects while reducing the debt service levy.
“You’re in the exact position that you want to be in when looking at these future projects,” Schumaker said.
Fleetwood highlighted that the district has paid off six debts within the past 18 months, leaving only high school bonds and a 2019 construction bond outstanding.
Board members commended the administration’s financial stewardship, noting that the district’s tax rate has steadily declined while facilities have been consistently maintained.
Following the financial presentations, the board moved into celebrations and community recognitions. Administrators highlighted the success of Start United, a kindergarten readiness program supported by United Way, and praised custodial and grounds crews for preparing buildings for the new school year. Northern Heights Elementary showcased student 4‑H projects at the county fair, and the district recently welcomed 22 new teachers during orientation last week.
The board also celebrated the success of the Whitley County Resource Fair, hosted at the Woodland Center, which drew more than 1,000 attendees seeking school supplies and community services. Staff members from multiple buildings were recognized for their contributions to the event.
Board members closed the meeting by acknowledging the increased community presence of district leaders and expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming school year.
Whitley County Consolidated Schools looks forward to welcoming students back for the first day on August 12, 2026.