The Mail-Journal, Volume 23, Number 44, Milford, Kosciusko County, 29 October 1986 — Page 1

140 NuKih 'otNMc INDIANAPOLIS IN 4&204 . ~j \ Lhe MailjsfflJournal

Milford 658-4111 & Syracuse 457-3666

VOLUME 23

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HEAR THE CANDIDATES — Last night (Tuesday) was Candidates Night where candidates for the Wawasee School Board had an opportunity to be heard on various subjects confronting the school. Wawasee Classroom Teachers* Association provided the forum at the

Overcrowded Syracuse school a prime concern — School board candidates air views

I By ARCH BAUMGARTNER I Publisher. The Mail-Journal Most major problems — and more, too! — that will face the operation of a lateTwentieth Century school corporation got a thorough airing last night (Tuesday) in the cafeteria annex of Wawasee High from candidates for the school boardin next Tuesday’s election. It brought a general thanks from all candidates to the Wawasee Classroom Teachers' Association (WCTA) for providing the forum for the discusson WCTA arranged an orderly and well planned meeting with the candidates, and about 75 school patrons availed themselv es of the get-acquainted occasion. Appearing before the group were the candidates: District I, David Carey and Curtis Jordan; District 11, Stephen Arnold, Charles E Beck and Courtney Blue; and District 111, Randall Dewart, Randall Pollen and Bill Troup. Three Minutes Each Donna Yargosz, a high school teacher and president of WCTA, served as moderator and read the questions and held strictly to the announced format. David Stookey, third grade teacher at Milford, was the timer, with Carol Koble, Syracuse fifth grade teacher, serving as Stookey’s assistant/timer. Each candidate was given three minutes to respond to questions. Candidates were given the questions in advance, and. in some cases their answers were read, but as the meeting progressed and candidates felt more relaxed, there were more off-the-cuff answers. Questions were wide-ranging, from “Outline your goals for the Wawasee School Board of Trustees” to some involving the school’s keeping up with today’s technological age. There appeared to be general agreement among the that an early resolution of ttfeg

Election interest focuses on Wawasee School Board contest

Last week we ran information on the eight men who are seeking the office of trustee for the Wawasee Community School Corporation. The men are subject to election next Tuesday. Three will be elected. Seeking to serve on the board are David L. Carey and Curtis E. Jordan of District 1 (Tippecanoe Township); Stephen O. Arnold, Charles E. Beck and Courtney A. Blue of District 2 (Turkey Creek Township); and Randall E. Dewart, Randall Pollen and William O. Troup, of District 3 (Van Buren Township and the east half of Jefferson Township). Remaining on the board are Carol Swartzendruber of District

current leadership problem on the administrative level is desired and necessary. Also of general concern was the problem of representation of the corporation’s supportive staff which needs to be addressed. Candidate Dave Carey, the only board member seeking reelection, said there is a need to hire a new administrator and to

Myrick-Blue race highlights Syracuse town election Nov. 4

(Bv GLEN LONG Staff Writer Voters in Syracuse have a local decision to make as they cast their ballots next Tuesday (November 4). Shanda Blue has come out as a Democrat candidate for Syracuse trustee, opposing incumbent Carl Myrick in ward two of Syracuse. James Hughes, current president of the town board, is also on the ballot but has no opposition. Shanda Blue said the major platform of her party in Syracuse is to combat the local drug problem. She said she is personally concerned about drug use in the community and that drugs do Wawasee Area Business Owners to meet Nov. 3 The November meeting of the Wawasee Area Business Owners will be Monday, Nov. 3, at 5:30 p.m., in Fisher’s Lawn and Garden, SR 13S Syracuse. An organizational meeting of the group was conducted Monday, Oct. 6. All area business owners are asked to attend. The group will meet the first Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. For further information contact Bill Fisher or Peg Halsey.

2 and Bill Little of District 3. As noted last week either Carey or Jordan must be elected. Both may be elected since each district must have at least one board member but may have no more than two members. One of the candidates from Turkey Creek Township may be elected and one of the candidates from Van Buren Township may be elected. Before we continue with this week’s questions, an error made last week must be corrected. Candidate Bill Troup was listed as having hobbies of “fighting, tying flies, snowmobiling and golfing.” The correct list of hobbies is “fishing, tying flies, snowmobiling and golfing. ” The remaining questions and the candidates’ answers follow:

Consolidation of THE MILFORD MAIL (Est. 1888) and THE SYRACLSE-WAWASEE JOURNAL (Est. 1907)

high school cafeteria annex. Bill Troup is at the podium. Other candidates from left are Randall Dewart, Charles E. Beck, Stephen Arnold, Courtney Blue, David Carey, Curtis Jordan and Randall Pollen.

address the supportive staff problem. Curtis Jordan said the need for open communications is crying out. And Randall Pollen said “our most valuable commodity is our children,” and that their interest should be first and foremost in all decision-making. Randall Dewart said the board members have two functions: to carry out state-mandated educa-

lead to crime. She wants to help the police, schools and churches work together to fight the situation. “I don’t think they’re working together now,” Blue said. “I am in favor of controlled growth and progress in our town and think Syracuse can do a lot to help the industrial park along,” added Blue. She said the sewage treatment plant on which con struction is expected to start soon is a major growth item. Blue stated that as a member of the town board she will untie law enforcement’s hands to do the job they are hired to do and promote economic growth of the community. She plans to work closely with schools, business and industry for improvement and

1I& w *x Lit CARL MYRICK

What do you think about a 12-month school year? CAREY: “I think that summer school (if Indiana were to legislate it) is an excellent time for special or remedial courses, and would be an excellent way to increase the educational level of Indiana students.” JORDAN: “I would not support a 12-month school year. However, utilizing school facilities and properties for adults, continuing education and summer school may be appropriate. ” ARNOLD: “As a national priority, a 12-month system will, in my opinion, eventually come about. Many metropolitan school systems (Chicago, New York, California) have instituted such programs. The facility is ready year around; however, the pro-

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29,1986

tional policies and to carry out the educational desires of the corporation. He urged that board members give public relations a high priority. Prime Time All candidates agreed on Prime Time, limiting classes to 18 to 25 students, as mandated by the (Continued on page 2 )

growth, promote the community as a winter as well as a summer resort and make the town hall more accessible to residents. - . “I think Syracuse needed a new town hall and that the town board did a good job with it.” commented Blue. She added that she is very pleased with the number of people who have expressed support for her campaign and hopes for a large voter turnout. My rick Myrick has been on the Syracuse town board for 10 years, six of them as board president. Prior to that he served for 17 years as a volunteer on the Syracuse Fire Department. (Continued on page 2)

•• SHANDA BLUE

blem is economic ... how to meld teachers and children into a 12-month program on what is now a basic nine-month calendar.” BECK: “Not in favor if it means students will be graduating at an earlier age. Summer months could be used for remedial work for poorer students. Also, used for more talented students to take advanced subjects eg math, science, English, etc. I do have an open mind on this.” BLUE “I have long been aware that the amount of information that needs to be taught in school has grown tremendously over the past 25 years. At the same time, the length of the school year has remained basically the same. Common sense tells us that we need to make some provisions for

'Decision pleases board of trustees': Little —

Elkhart Circuit Court Judge Duffin declines restraining order request

I By DEB PATTERSON Staff Writer “The court declines to grant the plaintiff’s application for a restraining order . . .” was the order handed down by Elkhart Circuit Court Judge Gene R. Duffin, Monday, Oct. 27. Judge Duffin’s ruling was the first part of many decisions he will have to make concerning the law suit between Dr. Kenneth E. Webster and the Wawasee Community School Corporation, its board of trustees and the State of Indiana, Department of Education. This decision denies Webster the right to return, on a temporary basis, as superintendent of the school corporation. Judge Duffin’s order came 10 days after the October 17 hearing concerning the temporary restraining order. Robert Reed, Syracuse, attorney for the school corporation, said the judge’s decision was “just plain and simple.” “The decision pleases the board of trustees,” remarked Billy G. Little, president of the Wawasee Community School Corporation’s board. “We had felt the action taken in voiding the {contract had been taken in accordance of sound legal adviee and it’s gratifying the board’s action has been vindicated.” Little remarked the board and corporation needs to go on with the selection process of a superintendent. Applications are just starting to come in and will be reviewed by a screening committee to narrow down the applications to an interviewable number. Reed stated he has until November 24 to file an answer to the complaint filed. The court order states: “The court having heretofore taken under advisement Plaintiff’s Application for Temporary Restraining Order, now finds as follows: “The court declines to grant the Plaintiff’s Application for a Restraining Order, the Court finding that this would constitute a specific performance of a personal service contract and that there is no statute which provides an action for restraining order or mandate for superintendent as provided for permanent and semi-permanent teachers under Indiana Code 20-6.1-4-12. “The court further finds that the plaintiff has an adequate remedy at law and that this judgment will not bar the plaintiff from pursuing his remedies for the alleged breach of his contract to serve as Superintendent for the Wawasee Community School Corporation.” No hearing date has been set for the remainder of the suit. The case will remain in Elkhart Circuit Court. First Inning “This is the first half of the first inning,” remarked Steve Snyder, Syracuse, attorney for Dr.

the additional teaching time required. However, I don’t think a 12-month school year is the only solution to the problem. I think the summer recess from school has many social, economic, and emotional benefits for the children, as well as for the parents and teachers. I would therefore be reluctant to move toward that type of school calendar.” DEWART: “I do not believe a 12-month school year is in the public interest at this time. Many states and cities have tried it. I do feel it may well come into being in the next 20-25 years. As we restructure for the future we must consider the possibility that public schools will have to compete for pre-schoolers, face demands for day-care program-

Webster. He reported the school corporation will now need to file an answer to the original complaint and once the answer is filed Snyder can take the next step. Dr. Webster could not be reached for comment. The court will need to make a ruling on a motion for a summary judgment on the legal questions sought by Dr. Webster. These legal questions concern the validity of his license, was it valid from July 31 to his termination date of September 26, and whether or not the meeting notices were properly posted. The main portion of the lawsuit, still to be heard, is the question of damages for breach of contract. In this portion, Dr. Webster is seeking the balance of his salary according to the contract signed by him on, June 12, 1986. The contract states Dr. Webster was hired beginning July 1, 1966, until June 30, 1967, as superintendent and will be paid $54,350.14 per year. The contract also states Dr. Webster’s salary would be reviewed annually and it was the first of a three-year contract. i To date Dr. Webster has been paid approximately $14,005.62 between July 1 and September 26, leaving an unpaid balance from the contract, of $40,344.52. The Beginning A special meeting of the school board was called to consider the credentials of Dr. Webster, on September 18. At this meeting the only item on the agenda was a review of the superintendent’s contract status. Remarks from legal counsel for the school board and Dr. Webster, along with remarks from Dr. Webster and the public were heard. The matter was tabled. A public meeting was set for 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, to continue the contract review. It was during this meeting the school board voted to void his contract by a vote of 4-0. The reasoning for voiding the contract was his superintendent’s license had expired on July 21,1986, and he had acknowledged he presently did not have a valid superintendent’s license for the State of Indiana. Snyder had asked the board to hold off its decision on the contract until the October 2 meeting of the state licensing board. At the October 2 state licensing board meeting, Dr. Webster’s license was extended, retroactive to August 1, 1986, until June 31, 1987. Following the license extension, Dr. Webster, through his attorney, filed a suit to have his contract honored by the school board. The first hearing date was scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 9 a.m. in Kosciusko Circuit Court. A motion for a change of venue by Robert Reed, school attorney, was granted and the hearing was moved to Elkhart Circuit Court, where it was heard on Friday, Oct. 17, at 1 p.m. Original Complaint The suit filed by Dr. Webster is a “verified complaint for temporary restraining order, preliminary and permanent injunctions, declaratory judgments

ming and begin to develop services for citizens ages 70 and up. Availability of funds will be a strong determining factor. ” POLLEN: “In my opinion, our area is heavily agricultural, most farms being family owned and operated. I cannot see how our community could support a 12-month program.” TROUP: “Not in favor of this.” What do you think about improving education in the school system for (a) gifted students, (b) the average students and (c) the slow students? CAREY: “I think the educational process at each level is very important, and I am quite excited about our gifted and talented program. The program has been a pilot to other corporations, but we do not dare lose

and damages.” It is a four-page complaint in which Dr. Webster demands judgment for: Restraining and enjoining defendants from terminating his contract of employment and ordering him reinstated to the position of superintendent and further ordering the defendants to make payments to him in accordance with the contract. Declaring his license issued July 31, 1985, by the State of Indiana, Department of Education, to be valid and to have been valid continuously since July 31, 1985, and to be valid through June 30, 1987. Declaring actions of the defendants taken on September 26, determining his contract vend, to be null and void as violative of I.C. 5-14-1.5-5 (notice of meetings not properly given). Declaring the action of the defendants taken on September

Wabash native Milford utilities superintendent

After conducting over 10 interviews during six months of searching, the Milford Town Board announced Monday that it had hired Wabash native Dallas Leland Winchester, Jr., at a rate of $19,000 per year as the town’s utilities superintendent. The action helps fill a void left when William Knowles resigned to pursue private business interests last April. Randy Veach, who had acted as interim superintendent, will continue in the department as assistant, while Daniel Van Lue, laborer, rounds out the street, sewer, and water staff. Town board president Jean Treesh stated, “I think they (utilities crew) will work

Rain fails to dampen Milford Halloween party

The third annual Halloween costume judging and cake baking contests, co-sponsored by Campbell’s IGA and the Milford Lions Club, was a huge success despite the heavy rains. The festivities began at 4:30 p.m. last Saturday with a free sausage and potato supper served by the Lions Club under a tent in Campbell’s parking lot. Then after the supper, at 6:30 p.m., the festivities were moved to the Milford Elementary School gym because of the rain. Costume Winners . There were 11 entry costume categories. Adam Cox, 8, was grand prize winner. He is a second grader at Milford Elementary School and is the son of Craig and Connie Murray, Milford. His division was misc. from infants to age seven. Other division winners were:

sight of the other levels (the good old ‘3 Rs’ and vocational training)” JORDAN: “The educational environment, curriculum and school programs need frequent review to ensure each student has the opportunity to progress within his or her own ability, ie. The gifted and talented program, ‘Mastery Reading Program’ and ‘Readiness Program.’ This approach should recognize student differences, involve teachers and parents and provide the educational environment that encourages each student to become the best he or she can.” ARNOLD: “I see no difference between the three categories ... the school must address each division of student placement. This is the schools’ most impor-

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26, to be null and void as violative of plaintiff’s right of due process as set forth in I.C. 20-6.1-4-1 et seq. (right to due process and opportunity to request a hearing after receipt of notice of termination). Declaring his contract dated June 12, 1986, to be valid and binding. Declaring him to have been validly licensed by the state to serve the school as a superintendent from July 31, 1985, through the date of hearing and thereafter as provided by the current licenses. Declaring the plaintiff’s contract to have been breached by the defendants on September 26. The remainder of the suit calls for such other remedies, equitable and legal, to which the court would determine plaintiff is entitled after hearing and for all other relief just and proper.

together well,” while board member Darrell Orn assured everyone “Dallas will fit well into the community.” Z The son of Wabash mayor Dallas Sr., the 24-year-old is a 1983 graduate of Vincennes University, where he obtained his associates in science degree in public relations. He also has served on the Wabash City Street Department and is currently Operator Class II of the wastewater treatment plant. He has secured his wastewater treatment license and is currently working toward obtaining a provisional water license, according to Treesh. The next town board meeting, Nov. 10, will mark Winchester’s first day of duties, after which he will be introduced to those attending.

Cartoons — Jason Haab, Ist; Stacie Sparks, 2nd; and Travis Coy, 3rd Witches, ghosts and goblins — Mandy Sawyer, Ist; Dawn Tillis, 2nd; and Lorann Wilson, 3rd Space people — Amber Miller, Ist; Austin Miller, 2nd; and (Continued on page 23)

Trick-or-treat Unlike some years, Halloween falls on a Friday this year — which means trick-or-treaters will be able to gather their goodies on Halloween night, Friday, Oct. 31. Trick-or-treat time for those in Milford and Syracuse has been set from 8 p.m. until 8 p.m. Those in North Webster can go trick-or-treating from 6:30 p.m. until 8 *3O pm

tant difficult task . . . ‘how to create and execute instructional programs which will satisfy the stated three divisions’. My opinion is that until just recently, the ‘slow’ category has been ignored. However, progress is being made to adjust.” BECK: “This is for administration and teachers to handle and report to the board their need in way of materials and room.” BLUE: “Widely publicized recent studies have shown the need for improvement in education as all levels. I would look to experts for ideas and programs to be implemented toward these ends. ’ ’ DEWART: “Each category must receive careful attention. We must tailor programs that (Continued on page 2)