South Knox School Corporation has taken the next step in a previously announced reduction in force plan.
During its June 9 meeting, the South Knox School Board approved the reduction in force of teacher Kelly Jo Fields and voted to eliminate five instructional assistant positions for the 2026-27 school year. The affected positions are held by Katrina Crews, Sandra Noble, Nicole Stokeley-Rice, Sarah Rehwald and Samantha Yochum.
The personnel actions follow financial concerns discussed in earlier board meetings. As reported by the Vincennes Sun Commercial, school officials told board members this spring that declining enrollment, rising health insurance costs and pressure on the corporation’s education fund would likely require a reduction in force affecting two certified positions and five non-certified positions.
Board members also approved compensation for Interim Superintendent Joe Keller for additional days worked in the position. The compensation will be paid from the Operations Fund at the superintendent’s daily rate. Keller was appointed as interim superintendent in May after an approval for a leave of absence of current Superintendent Jeff Cochren. That leave was reported to be person and not related to his position at South Knox. (Vincennes Sun Commercial)
In other business, the board authorized Keller to appoint an athletic director effective July 1, subject to board approval at its July 14 meeting. The board also approved extensions of certified and classified administrative contracts.
Looking ahead, board members reviewed the timeline for development of the 2027 budget. A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for September 8, with adoption planned for October 13.
