Casey-Westfield School Board Reorganizes Leadership, Seats New Member

The Casey-Westfield School Board completed its post-election reorganization Monday evening, maintaining current leadership while welcoming new member Mike Fouty and establishing committee assignments for the coming term.

The organizational meeting followed the April 1 school board election, with Secretary Becky Clement reading the certified results showing Rebecca Kay Clement winning the two-year term with 292 votes, while four candidates secured four-year terms: Mike Fouty (282 votes), Lisa Huddlestun (276 votes), Jason Sharp (275 votes), and Erin Fain (270 votes).

President Tracy Gelb administered the oath of office to newly elected members before the board adjourned “sine die” and reconvened as the newly constituted board.

In unanimous votes, the board maintained its current leadership structure with Tracy Gelb re-elected as president, Erin Fain as vice-president, and Becky Clement as secretary. The continuity reflects satisfaction with current leadership during a period of significant district achievements, including the recent perfect 4.0/4.0 financial rating and successful bond issue approval.

The board appointed Jennifer Winschief as district treasurer and unanimously adopted all existing board policies, handbooks, and administrative procedures, ensuring operational continuity during the transition.

Committee assignments were restructured to accommodate the new board composition:

• Board Policy Committee: Becky Clement and Mike Fouty
• Building and Grounds Committee: Mike Fouty and Jason Sharp
• Budget and Finance Committee: Tracy Gelb and Shane Todd (plus one rotating member)
• Support Staff and Transportation Committee: Lisa Huddlestun and Jason Sharp
• Curriculum and Programs Committee: Erin Fain and Shane Todd
• Negotiations Committee: Tracy Gelb, Lisa Huddlestun, and Jason Sharp
• Communications Committee: Becky Clement and Erin Fain
• Discipline Committee: Erin Fain

Tracy Gelb was appointed as representative to the EIASE Governing Board and Board Legislative Liaison, while appointments to the IASB Governing Board were postponed for future consideration.

Policy discussions addressed several operational matters. The board reaffirmed its position on athletic activities during family time, maintaining the current policy prohibiting extracurricular activities after 5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays and all day Sundays. However, co-curricular activities such as band, music concerts, and drama productions will continue being allowed on Sundays.

Board member Lisa Huddlestun raised concerns from parents about delays between the end of sports seasons and post-season banquets, with the board directing administration to develop better processes for timely recognition events.

Teacher appreciation discussions revealed the board’s decision to observe Teacher Appreciation Week at a later time, acknowledging the strong support already provided by the Parent-Teacher Organization during the traditional week.

The reorganization positions the district for continued strong governance as it implements major facility improvements funded through the recently approved $4.5 million bond issue and maintains the educational excellence that has characterized recent achievements.

New member Mike Fouty brings fresh perspective to the board while joining experienced members who have guided the district through significant accomplishments including perfect financial ratings, successful bond financing, and comprehensive educational programming.

The 45-minute organizational meeting demonstrated efficient transition processes and unanimous support for maintaining stable leadership while integrating new perspectives through committee participation and policy discussions.