Education is the bedrock of any thriving community. In Hamilton County, our schools are among the best in the state—and even the country—attracting families who seek top-tier learning opportunities for their children. However, the landscape of education is changing rapidly, from funding challenges to evolving career pathways, making it more important than ever to stay engaged with the policies and decisions that shape our schools.
On Education Day, the Hamilton County Leadership Academy (HCLA) Class of 2025 explored the complexities of our local education system, hearing from superintendents, school board members, and industry leaders who are at the forefront of shaping student success.
Understanding the Financial Backbone of Our Schools
We began the day with an in-depth session led by Brian Tomamichel, Assistant Superintendent for Business & Operations at Westfield Washington Schools. He provided a primer on how school funding works in Indiana, explaining the crucial role property taxes play in maintaining our schools’ high standards. However, as state lawmakers reconsider tax structures, the future of education funding remains uncertain. The key takeaway? We must be actively involved in local politics to ensure decisions made at the state level don’t undermine the very system that has made Hamilton County a destination for education.
Career Pathways: Beyond the Traditional College Route
Next, we dove into The Pursuit Institute, an initiative dedicated to creating partnerships between schools and industries to offer career pathways beyond traditional four-year college degrees. Kurt Cantlon, Executive Director of The Pursuit Institute, emphasized the growing demand for skilled trades and alternative career training. As Hamilton County continues to expand, the workforce must be prepared to meet industry needs—not just in higher education but in fields like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.
An hour before lunch, we boarded a yellow school bus and took a trip to Carmel High School, where we saw firsthand how career pathways are being integrated into student experiences. Jacob Goodman, Computer Science Teacher & DECA Advisor, and Amanda Hoagland, Assistant Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, walked us through specialized programs that provide students with real-world skills, from business and technology to medical and engineering fields. The goal? Prepare students not just for college, but for lifelong career success. As a former yearbook Editor-in-Chief, I loved being able to visit the yearbook class that looked a lot different than my yearbook class of 1998. Two dozen computers, cameras, and educational experiences preparing students for more than putting the book together — they are being prepared to manage and run a company.
Superintendents’ Panel: Leadership, Challenges, and the Future
One of the most impactful moments of the day was the Superintendents’ Panel, where we heard from leaders of all six Hamilton County school corporations:
- Derek Arrowood (Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
- Michael Beresford (Carmel Clay Schools)
- Daniel Hile (Noblesville Schools)
- Paul Kaiser (Westfield Washington Schools)
- Patrick Mapes (Hamilton Southeastern Schools)
- David Mundy (Sheridan Community Schools)
Their collective message was clear: Hamilton County schools are among the best in the state because of strong community support, dedicated educators, and a commitment to innovation. However, they also emphasized the growing challenges schools face—rising costs, teacher retention, and balancing growth with resources.
A major concern? The potential for state-level policy changes that could disrupt the financial stability of our schools. As funding models shift, districts must find ways to maintain excellence while adapting to potential budget constraints.
The Role of School Boards: Policy, Oversight, and Advocacy
Understanding the role of school boards in shaping education policy was another key topic. Christi Crosser (President, Noblesville School Board) and Amber Willis (Member, Westfield Washington School Board) shared insights into their responsibilities, from hiring the superintendent, to budgeting decisions and policy oversight.
One of the most eye-opening discussions was about what school boards actually govern—and what they don’t. While they have authority over district policies and budget allocations, many decisions are dictated by state and federal regulations, making advocacy at all levels essential.
Education Foundations: Investing in the Future
The day concluded with a panel of education foundation leaders who are working to provide additional resources for students and teachers. These foundations play a critical role in bridging funding gaps, offering grants, scholarships, and innovative programming that might not otherwise be possible. Their work is a testament to the community’s commitment to maintaining excellence in education, regardless of financial uncertainties.
Here are my Key Takeaways from the day’s session:
- Education is an economic driver. Hamilton County’s reputation for strong schools attracts families and businesses, fueling the local economy.
- School funding is at a crossroads. With potential changes in property tax structures, staying informed and engaged in local and state government decisions is crucial.
- Not all students take the same path. Career pathways, technical training, and alternative education options must be expanded to meet workforce needs.
- School boards need informed community support. Advocacy at the school board level ensures that policies align with what’s best for students and educators.
- We must retain top educators. Competitive salaries, strong community support, and continued professional development are key to keeping high-quality teachers in our schools.
Final Thought: The Responsibility of Leadership
At the end of the day, our schools are only as strong as the communities that support them. Hamilton County has built an exceptional education system—but maintaining and improving it requires informed, engaged leadership from all of us.
As future leaders, our role is clear: advocate for smart policies, support educators, and ensure that Hamilton County remains a place where students thrive. Because ultimately, how we invest in education today will determine the strength of our community for generations to come.