Join us for our 2025 Teacher Recruitment Fair March 3 and 5! Washington Township is a dynamic community with broad diversity in cultures, religions, ethnic groups, races, and socioeconomic levels. We are a district that is passionate about developing lifelong learners and globally-minded citizens and creating equitable, affirming and responsive learning environments for all students to thrive. Learn more about joining our team by joining us at this exciting event!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Ellen Rogers, Communications Manager

Email: errogers@msdwt.k12.in.us

WT Continues Significant Compensation Increases to Ensure Highly Qualified Diverse Staff in Classrooms

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (November 22, 2024) – On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, the Washington Township School Board approved a resolution to significantly increase staff compensation.  This decision underscores our unwavering commitment to attracting and retaining high-quality diverse educators who are dedicated to the success of our students.

This pay increase will provide teachers with a well-deserved raise, reflecting the essential role they play in shaping the future of our students and community. This move is part of the district’s ongoing effort to ensure that our educators are compensated competitively, recognizing their hard work and the growing demands of the profession.

“Our teachers are the heart of our schools, and we recognize the vital role they play in fostering student growth and achievement,” said Superintendent Dr. Woodson . “This pay increase is a reflection of our gratitude for their dedication and our commitment to providing the resources and support they need to continue their important work in the classroom.”

The approved salary increases are the result of collaborative efforts between the district and the Washington Township Education Association.  Additionally, the district is dedicated to supporting its educators not only through competitive compensation, but also by offering ongoing professional development, enhancing classroom resources and support, and fostering a positive work environment.

By passing this resolution the board has approved a  $4000 base salary increase and a $1300 one-time stipend for all eligible teachers this school year. This is an 8.5% average increase in total compensation for our teachers in 2024-2025.

This compensation increase continues a series of years in Washington Township where teachers have seen the highest salary growth in the history of the district. Many teachers who have been with the district over the last 7 school years have seen their base salary increase over $20,000, have received over $5000 in stipends, and have seen no increase in the cost of health, dental, or vision insurance.

Additionally, the Washington Township School Board also approved substantial compensation increases for non-teaching staff including instructional assistants, cafeteria staff, school resource officers, custodians, transportation staff, and many other important roles.  Many of these staff also saw an increase in paid time off and retirement benefits this year as well.

These staff compensation increases were made possible in part by the significant increases in student enrollment, over 800 students in the last two years. This significant surge in enrollment across all grade levels is a testament to the great things happening in our classrooms and affords us the opportunity to provide even greater compensation increases to teachers and staff than were previously planned.  The district is thrilled that parents are choosing WTS for their child’s education!

To join the Washington Township education team, please visit the WTS website.

Dr. Taylor has been serving the Washington Township School district in several different capacities for the past sixteen years, most recently as the Associate Superintendent for Washington Township Schools. Prior to that appointment in 2020, Dr. Taylor served as a middle school and elementary school principal for over 8 years in Washington Township. He also served as an assistant principal, elementary school teacher, and middle school English Language Arts teacher prior to coming to Washington Township Schools in 2009.

During his four school years as Associate & Assistant Superintendent for Washington Township Schools, he has worked with great teams of educators across many different departments of the District. A fierce advocate for public education, Dr. Taylor believes that when a school community of diverse stakeholders collectively commits to improving student achievement, all students can and will succeed. He also believes that central to that collective commitment is exemplary leadership.

The vision for his leadership is to ensure we have high impact schools for all children by simplifying, aligning, and supporting many areas that impact teaching and learning in our schools. Whether it is curriculum, technology, policy, student services, safety or transportation, his priority is to make sure all arrows are pointing in the same direction to best serve our future-ready panthers and families in the most cohesive and collaborative manner.

“This is an exciting time for our district as we have worked to find our next Superintendent to replace Dr. Woodson upon her retirement next summer” said Washington Township School Board President, Mr. William Turner.

“Hiring for the role of Superintendent is a direct and sole responsibility of the board.   The board took this responsibility seriously and put in many hours during this search process to find our next superintendent, including hiring a search team that helped us select Dr. Taylor” continued Turner.

After a community survey/feedback opportunity in May, the board engaged the University Search Team to assist with the Superintendent hiring process. University Search Team filtered, vetted and

presented applicants to the board. After multiple rounds of interviews, which included phone screening and in-person interviews, Dr. Taylor was selected. The board is energized and excited about Dr. Taylor’s vision to move Washington Township Schools forward.

“I am incredibly honored and excited to step into the role of superintendent for this outstanding district that I have proudly served for the past 16 years in various leadership and principal roles,” said Dr. Taylor. “Having had the privilege of 5 years of exemplary mentorship from our current superintendent, to my work across our school communities, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication, talent, and diversity that make our district truly a destination district. This deep understanding of our district’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities will allow me to help sustain and build upon the excellence we’ve achieved together.”

Taylor has earned three degrees: a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Ball State University, a Master of School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a Doctoral Degree in Executive Educational Leadership from Indiana University-Bloomington.

Some of his accomplishments include:

• National Association of School Superintendents Aspiring Superintendent Award
• Washington Township Schools Norman R. Turchan Administrator of the Year
• Led one elementary school to a National Title I Distinguished School designation
• Led both an elementary and a middle school from a state accountability letter grade of a D to a B during his principalships
• Earned highly effective evaluation designations at each leadership level served
• National Playworks Principal of the Year Nominee

He is also active in the community through the Washington Township Schools Foundation, the Washington Township Community Coalition, Lion Catchers, Student Impact, Young Life, and Westfield Youth Sports.

Dr. Taylor concludes, “I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and the trust that has been placed in me. I look forward to continuing our collective work in fostering academic success, equity, and a thriving learning environment for all students. Together, we will ensure our district continues to be a place where every Panther has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

Dr. Taylor and his wife, Megan, have been married for 20 years and they have two children.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 24, 2024) – Mr. Jagga Rent was recently approved by the WT School Board to become the next Principal of North Central High School after a comprehensive hiring process involving broad-based stakeholder input. His transition will take place in the coming weeks.

“We are thrilled by Mr. Jagga Rent’s appointment as the new principal of North Central High School,” said Dr. Pettigrew, Chief Academic and DEI Officer. “Mr. Rent brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach that aligns with our district’s strategic goals and the unique needs of our diverse educational community. Mr. Rent will join a school community known for its deeply rooted Panther traditions and rich heritage. I am confident that Mr. Rent’s transformative leadership and commitment to educational excellence will elevate North Central to even greater achievements. North Central is undoubtedly poised for an exciting new chapter with Mr. Rent at the helm.”

Mr. Rent’s extensive background in educational administration spans multiple roles and settings, providing him with a well-rounded understanding of high school instructional leadership and operations. Notably, Mr. Rent has served as an administrator in both urban and suburban settings, equipping him with a broad perspective that will be invaluable in serving our diverse community. Mr. Rent has demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of culturally responsive instructional practices and has a proven track record of fostering inclusive learning environments that promote academic excellence and personal growth.

Mr. Rent currently serves as Principal of Hamilton Southeastern Intermediate Junior High School and previously served as an Assistant Principal and Dean at Hamilton Southeastern High School. He received both his Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Ball State University.

Mr. Rent’s impact extends beyond his recent administrative roles through his involvement as a Level Up Leadership Presenter for emerging education leaders through the Indiana Department of Education as well as an Empowering Diverse Leader Mentor for the Indiana Association of School Principals.

“I am extremely humbled and excited to embark on this new journey as the next Principal at North Central High School,” Mr. Rent said. Additionally, “I am eager to contribute to the school’s rich tradition and history of excellence. I look forward to collaborating with the Washington Township community to continue their legacy of success.”

Mr. Rent is a devoted husband to Finae Rent, and loving father to 3 beautiful children: Jaelynne (11), Journie (10), and Jagga Jr. (7). As a family, they love spending time together, particularly watching Michigan football games as a crew. In addition to Mr. Rent’s leadership role at North Central, his wife recently joined Eastwood Middle School as the new Assistant Principal; their family’s commitment to the Washington Township community extends to their children who will also be enrolling in Washington Township Schools.

Please join us in extending a warm North Central welcome to Principal Jagga Rent and his family.

Dr. Wendy M. Skibinski has been named Director of Student Services  for Washington Township.

Dr. Skibinski attended the University of Indianapolis (Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education), Ball State University (Masters of Emotional Disabilities), and Indiana State University (Curriculum & Instruction Ph.D) and began her career in education as a Special Education Teacher in Wayne Township. Throughout her career she has held the titles of Dean of Students, High School Principal, Director of College & Career Readiness, College Admissions Consultant, Chief Academic Officer, and most recently Behavior Consultant mainly in large urban school districts.

Among many notable accomplishments during her vast career, Dr. Skibinski has been named Principal of the Year and has embarked on extensive work to raise the graduation rate, make her schools 1:1 for technology and has worked to create and implement a school vision in collaboration with stakeholders based on integrity, imagination, inspiration, compassion and creativity.

“I am thrilled and honored to embark on this new journey as the Director of Student Services in the Washington Township school community,” said Dr. Skibinski. “I am eager to collaborate with our incredible team to empower our students, foster a culture of learning, and create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Together, we will inspire innovation, celebrate achievements, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students.”

Ms. Krista Douglass has been named Principal of Clearwater Elementary

Ms. Douglass has been serving as school principal in IPS since 2019. Prior to her first principalship, she served as Assistant Principal, Instructional Coach, and began her career in education as a teacher of kindergarten, first, third, and fourth grades in urban school settings. Principal Douglass attended Butler University earning a B.S. in Elementary Education and an M.S. Education Administration.

In her career to date, Principal Douglass has been instrumental in implementing successful instructional coaching structures. She has also integrated mindfulness, restorative practices, and brain aligned strategies to improve the school culture.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to join the Clearwater Elementary team and to help build upon the success they are already experiencing,” said Principal Douglas. “I can’t wait to become a part of the Washington Township community, and I am very excited to get to know the students, staff, and families in the coming weeks!”

Announcing the Job Posting for North Central High School Principal

June 25, 2024 – Indianapolis, Indiana

The Metropolitan School District of Washington Township (MSDWT) announces the job posting for North Central High School (NCHS) Principal on June 25. The District seeks a highly qualified candidate to lead the school’s legacy of excellence. Broad-based stakeholders will be involved in the selection process over the next five weeks to ensure continued success in teaching and learning.   

MSDWT is located in the northern section of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Marion County. It is a dynamic community with broad diversity in cultures, religions, ethnic groups, races, and socioeconomic levels. The district has been an educational leader in Indiana for the last 65 years and offers a comprehensive educational curriculum with special activities and programs geared to provide enrichment, exploration, and instructional support for students. It also provides excellent opportunities for students to participate in outstanding performing arts, fine arts, academic teams, publications, athletics, and other student activities.

MSDWT delivers instruction through our locally developed Elevate Instructional Framework in eight elementary schools, three middle schools, an area Career Technical Education Center, and North Central High School. North Central High School is proud to offer a rigorous curriculum featuring Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate Certificate, International Baccalaureate Diploma, and dual credit opportunities.

MSDWT provides quality education in award-winning schools built on a foundation of outstanding educators, administrators, school board members, and supportive parents. Our mission is to develop lifelong learners and globally-minded citizens by fostering the academic, creative, and social skills needed to achieve excellence in a multicultural environment. Our goal is to be equitable, affirming, and responsive in every way possible to our students and our families.

The North Central High School Principal manages and supervises the staff of NCHS to ensure that students are instructed and supported in a safe learning environment. They work closely with the high school associate principal and assistant principals to lead and assist school staff and to optimize communication between school leaders and teachers, parents, and other districts and schools. They guide instructional practices, facilitate meetings, develop and review curriculum programs, evaluate staff, and assume primary responsibility for financial resource management.

Resources:

Job Posting & Online Application

Additional Information About NCHS

Following the completion of fourteen years as Superintendent and sixteen total years with Washington Township Schools, Dr. Nikki Woodson announces her upcoming retirement as Washington Township Schools (WTS) Superintendent. “It is with heart-filled gratitude that I announce my retirement from WTS for June 30, 2025. I have been proud to serve WTS since 2009 and since 2011 as Superintendent. During this time, the District has transformed by overcoming complexities and challenges, embracing increased diversity of our students, raising achievement resulting in a double-digit increase in graduation rate, successfully passing two major referendum campaigns and the deployment of their plans, as well as guiding the school community through a global pandemic. It certainly has been an extraordinary journey and I am thankful for the incredible staff, students, and supportive community that make success in WTS possible. I look forward to starting my next chapter after retirement in the summer 2025.”

Dr. Woodson plans to lead the 2024-2025 school year with a continued focus on the improvement efforts outlined in the District Strategic Plan which include focusing on equitable achievement, partnerships, fiscal responsibility, deployment of the remaining construction and renovation projects, as well as hiring and retaining highly qualified and diverse staff.

The timing of this announcement well in advance of Dr. Woodson’s retirement date provides the Washington Township Schools (WTS) Board of Education time to complete a comprehensive Superintendent search and implement a thoughtful transition process.

School Board President Deirdre George Davis states, “WTS and the entire Washington Township community congratulate Dr. Woodson on her retirement and thank her for giving well over a decade of professional service to our students, staff, and community. The Board understands that this is a critical position that will shape the future vision of WTS. Equally important to the selection process will be a transition between Dr. Woodson and her successor. We will develop a strategic timeline so that District operations and focus on equitable achievement remain uninterrupted.”

The Board will post the position soon and conduct a comprehensive search process with a final selection of the next Superintendent announcement this Fall. WTS looks forward to having Dr. Woodson serve as Superintendent for the 2024-2025 school year and anticipates a smooth transition into the 2025-2026 school year, with the new Superintendent.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 22, 2024) – Washington Township Schools is pleased to announce that Kristin Parisi has been named Director of the Early Learning Center, starting school year 2024-25.

Mrs. Parisi is currently finishing her 29th year as an educator. During that time she has filled the roles of special education teacher, general education classroom teacher (K-8), assistant principal (14 years), and most recently she has served as the Director of Early Learning at Clark-Pleasant Early Learning Center for the past 3 and a half years. During this current school year, Parisi worked with the Indiana Department of Education and the Education Service Centers to create the Future Focused Learning Series, where she met and collaborated with early childhood educators from throughout the state.

“I am honored and excited to join the staff at Washington Township’s Early Learning Center and look forward to meeting our families and getting to know our students,” said Parisi. “I started my teaching career as a student teacher in Washington Township 30 years ago and feel like I am coming home!”

Mrs. Parisi holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education, Mild Disabilities & Seriously Emotionally Handicapped from Ball State University, and her Master’s Degree in Elementary Administration from Butler University E.P.P.S.P. Parisi also holds her P-3 Leadership Certification from the University of Colorado Denver.

Mrs. Parisi and her husband Anthony, live in Westfield where they have raised their 3 young adult children.

Dr. Crystal Thorpe has been named Director of Teaching and Learning Grades 6-8.

Dr. Thorpe attended Indiana University, Butler University, and Indiana State University (Ph.D.) and began her career in education teaching high school English in a neighboring township district. In 2007, she became the first Black principal at Fishers Junior High School in Hamilton County, where she received accolades for creating engaging courses, multiple club opportunities, leading “best practice” instructional strategies, and nurturing community engagement. Dr. Thorpe has vast experiences as an adjunct professor at the American College of Education and the University of Indianapolis. She has also served as the Principal-in-Residence for the principal preparation program at the University of Indianapolis.

In 2020, she was named the Indiana Association of School Principals Middle School Principal of the Year, and she represented Indiana as the 2021 National Association of Secondary School Principals Principal of the Year. Dr. Thorpe is the recipient of the Indiana Black Expo (IBE) Distinguished Educator Award, InnoPower Black Educator Excellence in Education Award, and Ford Motor Company Ford Freedom Unsung Hero Award, among others.

Dr. Thorpe currently serves as the President of the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASSP) and enjoys attending the NASSP Advocacy Conferences where she shares her voice with Indiana legislators on improving our schools. She serves on the Secretary Advisory Council with Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner and advocates on behalf of middle level education.  The Chief Academic & DEI Officer, Dr. Pettigrew, will oversee this position and shares, “We are excited to welcome Dr. Thorpe to Washington Township. Dr. Thorpe is a game-changer in middle school education. Her wealth of experiences as a middle school leader for 16 years and the instructional support she provides principals all over the country will benefit the staff and students of Washington Township.”

Dr. Thorpe is excited about joining the WT team, “I’m so thankful and excited at the opportunity to join the MSD Washington Township team,” said Dr. Thorpe. “I’m looking forward to working with middle school administrators, staff, students, and the community by collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure student success.”

Dr. Rachel Sever has been named Director of Teaching and Learning Grades 9-12.

Dr. Sever has served in the MSD of Washington Township since 2019 as the English as a New Language Coordinator and most recently as the Interim Director of Teaching and Learning for grades 9-12.  Dr. Sever began her education career as an English teacher in Carmel Clay Schools before serving as a CCS district leader. Since that time, Dr. Sever has led numerous initiatives in Washington Township, including Next Level Programs of Study and Indiana College Core. Dr. Sever also served as an adjunct instructor in the College of Education at IUPUI and Butler University. Dr. Sever earned her Ph.D. in Literacy, Culture and Language Education from Indiana University in 2015.  She received her superintendent’s license upon graduating with an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education in 2021.  Dr. Sever has also earned the prestigious National Board Certification in Early Adolescent Language Arts and was instrumental in the development and launch of Washington Township’s Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Program.

Dr. Pettigrew will also oversee this position and shares, “Dr. Sever’s experiences in literacy, bilingualism and biliteracy, and Next Level Programs of Study will elevate our current practices and outcomes for all students in Washington Township. We are acutely aware of the expertise and passion that Dr. Sever brings to this executive role and our principals are thrilled to continue working with such a dynamic leader.”

Dr. Sever was named Washington Township’s Administrator of the Year in 2021 and looks forward to working on continuous improvement, “I am honored and excited to serve Washington Township as the Director of Teaching and Learning for grades 9-12,” said Dr. Sever. “I look forward to partnering with our incredible team at the high school level to continue cultivating equitable, responsive, and affirming learning environments for all students.”

Mr. Brian Funk has been named Director of the J. Everett Light Career Center.

Mr. Funk is the current Assistant Director at J. Everett Light Career Center which serves students from Washington Township, Boone and Hamilton County High Schools. In this role Mr. Funk has provided leadership in the expansion of Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, providing opportunities for students to obtain dual credits, certifications and employability skills. Mr. Funk earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology Education and his Director of Career and Technical Education license from Ball State University. Mr. Funk also holds an M.A.E. and Building Level Administration license from Indiana Wesleyan University.

“I am excited about my new role as Director at the J. Everett Light Career Center,” said Mr. Funk. “I am passionate about making a difference in the world of Career and Technical Education.”

Mrs. Alexandra Brownell has been named Assistant Principal for North Central High School.

Mrs. Alexandra Brownell is the current interim Assistant Principal for North Central High School. Mrs. Brownell earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Master of Arts degree in Education both from Truman State University. She began her career in education in 2007 as a high school science teacher, most recently at Zionsville Community Schools. In 2022, Mrs. Brownell was hired as the Assistant Secondary Curriculum Coordinator for Washington Township Schools; she supported horizontal and vertical alignment among schools, led middle school programs of study and curriculum evaluations, and provided extensive expertise in curriculum and instruction.

Mrs. Brownell is a champion for equitable educational experiences that result in student achievement and growth. She shares, “It is an honor to continue to serve the students and families of Washington Township. I look forward to building partnerships focused on student success.”

Our schools have been engaged in diverse learning opportunities during Black History Month. Enjoy the highlights below, and check back often as we continue to add more.