Nettle Creek Schools praises community’s generosity

Amid financial strain and uncertainty for many residents, the Nettle Creek Schools community has stepped up to support its students and families. Superintendent Emily Schaeffer praised the “exceptional” support during the Dec. 10 school board meeting at Hagerstown Elementary. 

Schaeffer shared how the school prepared 244 weekend backpack meals for students via donations and was able to support 57 students through their Christmas assistance program. First-grade teacher Lisa Bane, the director of the student theater program Act One, announced that donations received from local businesses and organizations totaled $3,000. Elementary school principal Belinda Locke shared that the school’s food drive collected 1,450 items for students’ and Communities in Schools’ use, including clothing and other materials. 

As a reflection of the community’s efforts and meeting the moment, Schaeffer’s recommendation to amend her 2025-26 contract to reflect the previous year’s lower rate was approved by the board. Board member Shaun Lieberman praised Schaeffer for her decision, noting that she “epitomizes what it means to put the corporation first.” Board member Cody Sankey echoed the sentiment. 

In district news, Schaeffer praised the return of Communities in Schools with liaisons Sydney Lieberman and Sam Steinbrook. She acknowledged Jr/Sr High Assistant Principal Jamie Claywell’s attendance at the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching conference, and senior high counselor Julie Arnold for her leadership at the Indiana School Counseling Conference. 

Schaeffer congratulated the Hagerstown High School cheer team for earning their first bid to the national competition in Florida next year. The team is fundraising for trip costs.

Schaeffer also discussed public concerns about the school’s approach to winter weather readiness. She described the district’s meticulous process to determine delays and cancellations, prioritizing safety.

During a review of financial items, board member Lieberman questioned the debt accrued from past-due tuition payments for the school’s preschool services. Schaeffer said some services might be adjusted until full payment is rendered, and that they are working with families before collection services become involved.

Additional items included:

• Act One participants will resume rehearsals on Jan. 6 for its March show of “Willy Wonka Jr.” A callout meeting will be held on Monday, Dec. 15.
• Dec. 17 and 18 grades K-4 will host their holiday programs
• Hagerstown Jr./Sr. High School’s Brandy Farmer was voted as Staff Member of the Month.
• Senior student-athlete Isaac Schmitz was one of 24 seniors elected to the Colts All-Star Academic team. 
• Board member Sandi Schraub brought attention to two legislative bills: Bill 1035, which seeks to redraw Indiana’s congressional maps, and Bill 78, which would prohibit student cellphone use during school hours. 
• The board approved several recent policy changes due to new state legislation. 

The next meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 14 in the LGI Room at Hagerstown Elementary School, 299 N Sycamore Street, Hagerstown. The public may attend.