South Harrison Community School Corporation has been honored by the Indiana School Boards Association (ISBA) through its 2025 Exemplary Governance Awards program, earning the Advanced level of distinction. This recognition is awarded to school boards that actively participate in ISBA seminars, workshops, conferences, and other professional development opportunities, while also meeting specific criteria such as conducting a retreat with an outside facilitator and implementing strategies to enhance student achievement outcomes.
In addition to the board’s collective recognition, SHCSC Board members Deneen Stewart, Nick Evans, and Steve Simler were honored for their individual commitments to professional development. Stewart earned the Distinguished level of distinction after demonstrating a strong commitment to continuing education and effective board governance. Evans received the Exemplary highest level of distinction by demonstrating dedication to leadership development and board governance through active engagement in ISBA’s professional development programs, joining previous SHCSC board members Mary Mathes, Karen Lopp, Larry Hauswald and Barbara Smith in earning this highest level of recognition. Simler earned the Commendable distinction for his commitment to advancing the principles of effective governance.
“We are proud to celebrate these school board members for their exceptional leadership in the pursuit of excellence in education,” said ISBA President Steve Corona.
ISBA provides its members with a full range of professional learning opportunities. At dozens of events throughout the year, ISBA informs and educates board members about governance best practices, legislative advocacy, policy, school law, and more. More than 115 hours of professional development were available from ISBA for members in 2025.