South Vermillion Superintendent reflects on strong first year

While Dr. Micah Williams was familiar with the South Vermillion School Corporation, having served in several roles in the past, the 2025-26 school year was a different one for him because he was the corporation's superintendent.

And, by all accounts, his first year at the helm went very well.

"It definitely was a whirlwind. It was a very good first year. I have a lot of good support, whether it was staff, student, community members, there was a lot of buy-in. Our goal going in was transparency and being visible in our schools and the community, and I think that went very well," Williams told The Parke County Post.

Williams admits being in the district was something he was "kind of worried about" when he became the superintendent. 

"I have been in the district for over 15 years now. Rhonda Foster, our assistant superintendent has been in the district for over 30 years, and it was a very easy transition. We have been able to continue those relationships with the community, students and staff and make sure we are in the buildings. Sometimes you think about having tough conversations with people, and we had those this year. Tough conversations become a little easier when you have those relationships," Williams said. 

When he reflects back on the 2025-26 school year, Williams said he sees a lot of positivity from the community when it comes to South Vermillion. 

"I know the approval rating for leadership positions is usually the highest in the first year so we have a lot of work to continue that, but I believe we had a lot of cool things happen with our students. Rhonda and I getting out in the community and being out and about helped feel that connection," he said. 

Williams said the district is "very happy" with its test scores and the district continues to add dual credit and AP course offerings, as well as offering different pathways through the new graduation model. 

Having done the finances for the corporation prior to taking over as superintendent, Williams believes South Vermillion is in good shape when it comes to the fallout of Senate Bill 1 and less money coming to the district with property tax relief for residents. 

"Our operations fund and debt service fund is losing, but it is another hoop to jump through. We continue to evaluate positions and as people leave through retirement or resignation, we continue to ask do we need to fill the position or do we move some things around to make sure we can still offer programs," Williams said. 

With funding comes enrollment, and Williams said he is always looking for ways to retain current students and recruit new families to the district. 

"I think that starts with your employees. I think that provides a stable environment for your students. They are comfortable with their teachers, staff members and they build relationships and want to stay within your building. We had one teacher retire and as of now no resignations. We are getting some phone calls from surrounding districts, which is always good and happens everywhere. As we continue to battle enrollment, we want to be transparent and say here are our plans moving forward, and this is why we think we are the best fit for your student," Williams said.