BCS Fills School Psychology Gap With Ball State Interns and Delaware County Agreement

From the Blackford County Schools Board Meeting on August 18, 2026

Following the departure of Dr. Trinkle on August 14, Blackford County Schools has arranged two solutions to maintain special education services — both approved by a 4-0 vote.

First, the district will bring in two doctoral-level psychology interns from Ball State University, capable of conducting 60 evaluations per year. Last year, 58 students were tested. Certified Ball State school psychologists will oversee all reports. The superintendent noted this is the model many smaller Indiana districts use, citing Liberty-Perry, Wes-Del, and Elwood as examples.

Second, the board approved a memorandum of understanding with Delaware County Community Schools at a cost of $2,000 per year. The agreement provides access to a licensed school psychologist who can sign off on Medicaid treatment plans — a step that requires a licensed psychologist. The stakes are significant: BCS receives approximately $160,000 to $170,000 annually in Medicaid reimbursement for student services including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language services. Without this agreement, any student newly qualifying for services since Trinkle's departure could not have Medicaid billing activated.

Both arrangements are temporary. A new special education interlocal — a shared-services agreement between districts — is being built and is expected to include school psychology within approximately one year.

Mrs. Price, the new Special Education Director, has already sat in on 53 case conferences since her hire date through August 18.

Source: YouTube transcript — Blackford County Schools Board Meeting

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.