Alan Koch to Retire as North Harrison High School Principal

The North Harrison School Board of Education met Monday, October 16. 

A retirement resignation letter from High School Principal Alan Koch, effective with the ending of the 2023-24 school year was approved.  Mr. Koch will be completing a 28 year career in education. He began his career in 1996 as a science teacher with the North Daviess School District. He returned to the northwest region for the 2019-20 school year and has served the North Harrison district since in teaching, coaching and administrative roles. 

Special Education instructors Barb McKiernan and Christine Sweeney updated the board on their department and classroom happenings.

The board approved the 2022-23 audit as prepared by CPA John Gillum and the Crisis Response and Management Plan prepared by guidance counselors Mrs. Steele and Mrs. Smith.

Elementary Principal Susan Allen reported that the school had its first tornado drill on September 21st. A book blast was held this month, and many students earned ten books for their grade level. The PTO sold socks and garden flags for their fall fundraiser. Proceeds will go towards school field trips, student t-shirts, and classroom needs.

High School Principal Alan Koch reported that three student teachers from Graceland University will begin student teaching at the school starting January 22nd, 2024. They are Mackenzie Klinginsmith (K-12 Music), Mason Vander Woude (K-12 Art), and Dalen Elliott (7-12 Math). 

Superintendent Ethan Sickels reported that the school received a School Safety Grant for $33,810. Proceeds will be used towards adding one more security camera, two new card readers for the High School and Elementary entrances, three portable AED’s, and 50 safety kits including bags, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and clipboards. Other items may be purchased as they work on more safety planning during the course of the year.

The school also received a Teen Mental Health grant. Mrs. Smith will attend a virtual three day training in December and the instruction and professional development will occur during the second semester. 

The next meeting of the North Harrison Board of Education will be Wednesday, November 15 at 7 pm.