DeWitt School Board Holds June Meeting

The DeWitt School Board met on June 9 for its regular monthly meeting. The meeting was called to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and invocation.

The Board approved the minutes from the Special Meeting held on May 4, 2026, as well as the Regular Meeting held on May 12, 2026.

During the Academic Report, DeWitt High School Principal Rachel Mitchell reported continued improvements in graduation rates. The Class of 2024 achieved an 88 percent graduation rate, while the Class of 2025 increased that figure to 93 percent. Mitchell also noted that beginning with the current class and future graduating classes, students will be required to complete 75 hours of community service as part of their graduation requirements.

Board member Mr. Graves commented on the increase in students transferring into the district from neighboring schools and commended district administrators, faculty, and students for their efforts in creating a positive educational environment.

In the Financial Report, Superintendent Craig Dupuy reported that the district's legal balance was approximately $3.5 million, with total funds across all accounts totaling approximately $6 million. He also noted an increase in personal property tax collections. The Board approved a facility request allowing the DeWitt Youth Basketball Summer League to utilize the auxiliary gymnasium on Wednesdays throughout June.

Under New Business, the Board approved compliance with Act 1105, which limits net increases to 20 percent. Members also approved technology purchases for the 2026–2027 school year, including Chromebooks at a cost of $42,500 and MacBooks at a cost of $51,500.

In athletic facilities improvements, the Board approved aeration and sanding of the football game and practice fields as part of the district’s maintenance plan at a cost of $18,000. Approval was also granted for the purchase and installation of a new press box sign and a Dragon Head logo on the west side of the gymnasium, with an estimated cost of approximately $19,000.

The Board further approved hearing presentations from two custodial service companies at a future meeting. Flooring improvements for the DeWitt Elementary School office hub were approved through Norman Floor at an estimated cost of $20,000. Additional approval was granted for floor scrubbing, stripping, and waxing services in all district buildings.

School Improvement Plans for each campus for the 2026–2027 school year were approved, as was the School Choice list for the upcoming academic year.

Representing the Personnel Policy Committee, Meagan Padgett presented a proposal that had already received support at each campus. The proposal would provide eight certified special education teachers in resource and self-contained classrooms with an annual stipend of $500 and three additional workdays to assist with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and case management responsibilities. The proposal will be evaluated further at a later date.

Dammie Jo Cummings addressed the Board on behalf of classified paraprofessionals and requested consideration of a similar $500 annual stipend.

In the Superintendent’s Report, Dupuy announced that final enrollment for the district stood at 1,082 students, an increase from 1,076. He noted that professional development activities for DeWitt Middle School and DeWitt High School staff would begin soon.

Dupuy also congratulated the DeWitt Dragonette Softball Team on its outstanding season, including a runner-up finish in the state championship tournament. Special recognition was given to Harley Grammer and Belle Easterwood for being named to the Class 3A All-State Tournament Team, with Easterwood also earning selection to the East All-Star Team.

Mr. Graves expressed appreciation to Coach Bobby Peeks for returning to assist the softball program and helping lead the team through a successful season.

Additional recognition was given to Certified Staff Member of the Year Jay Bly and Classified Staff Member of the Year Dammie Jo Cummings.

The Board was reminded that football practice and the annual "dead weeks" period are approaching. Upcoming district events include:

Following Executive Session, the Board accepted the resignation of Julie Rutherford as DeWitt Middle School Band Director.

The following certified personnel were approved for employment:

The Board also accepted the resignation of Dalton Cox as AM Bus Driver.

The following classified personnel were approved for employment:

With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned.