Pioneer Regional School District Superintendent completes rigorous Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents’ EPIC Leadership Program

Last Updated on May 1, 2026 by Cass County Communication Network

Royal Center, IN — Dr. Charles Grable, Pioneer Regional School Corporation Superintendent recently completed the Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents’ (IAPSS) EPIC (Educators Preparing Inspired Change) program—Indiana’s premier leadership development initiative designed to equip top school leaders with advanced tools in executive leadership, systems thinking, strategic innovation, and organizational management.

The EPIC program, tailored exclusively for sitting superintendents with three or more years of experience, prepares seasoned leaders with the strategic mindset and leadership competencies needed to navigate complex challenges, drive measurable results, and deliver a strong return on investment for their districts.

“EPIC is more than a professional learning experience; it is a long-term investment in the strength and sustainability of public education leadership,” said Dr. Jeff Butts. “Through this program, superintendents strengthen their business acumen, engage in meaningful reflection, and build the strategic capacity needed to navigate complex challenges. Graduates leave prepared to lead with clarity, confidence, and a forward-thinking vision to drive innovation, strengthen their organizations, and deliver meaningful results for students and communities across Indiana.”

“The EPIC program truly brought Pioneer’s core value of continuous improvement to life. It offered a profound opportunity to refine my practice, collaborate with peers, and drive better outcomes for our schools.” said Dr. Grable.

The 2025-26 EPIC Cohort 9 included these superintendents from across the state:

Dr. Ben Anderson, South Central CSC
Dr. Traci Blaize, Lakeland School Corporation
Mr. Jeff Gibboney, Greencastle CSC
Dr. Charles Grable, Pioneer Regional Schools
Dr. Chase Huotari, Franklin Township CSC
Dr. Sandra Wood, Laporte Community Schools
Dr. Ron Ross, South Dearborn CSC
Dr. Rex Ryker, Crawfordsville Community Schools
Dr. Kelly Shepherd, North Judson-San Pierre
Dr. Theodore Stevens, School City of Mishawaka
Dr. Todd Terrill, Crown Point CSC
Dr. Larry Young, MSD Pike Township

IAPSS congratulates Dr. Grable and all of these leaders for their dedication to continuous improvement and their commitment to elevating educational outcomes for students across Indiana.

The EPIC Superintendents Academy, presented by affiliates of the Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents (IAPSS), brings together top experts from business and education to foster powerful partnerships and drive innovation in public education. Through this collaboration, superintendents gain access to cutting-edge strategies and cross-sector insights that expand opportunities and advance educational outcomes across Indiana.

Facilitators
Dr. Jeff Butts, Executive Director, IAPSS
Ms. Kristen Bilkey, Director of Leadership Services, IAPSS
Dr. Laura Hammack, Superintendent, Beech Grove Schools
Dr. Jack Parker, Superintendent, Mt. Vernon Community Schools
Dr. Sharon Johnson-Shirley, Retired Superintendent
Ms. Cindy Smith, Executive Administrative Assistant, IAPSS

For more information about the EPIC program or IAPSS, visit iapss-in.org/epic

Source: News release from Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents