Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education met Dec. 1.
Here are the minutes provided by the board:
CALL TO ORDER FOR PUBLIC HEARING
President Miller called the public hearing on the proposed property tax increase for Coal City Community Unit School District #1 to order at 6:00 p.m. with the board members answering roll call present: Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, and Ken Miller. Superintendent Kent Bugg, CSBO Jason Smith, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Tammy Elledge, Director of Special Populations Luke Krippel, Principal Christopher Spencer, member of the press Ann Gill, and Board Secretary LaWanda Gagliardo were also in attendance. Board member Quint Harmon arrived at 6:02 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Miller led the Board of Education and others present in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE FOR COAL CITY COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT #1
President Miller stated the Board of Education approved a tentative 2021 property tax levy on Wednesday, November 3, 2021. A notice was published in the Coal City Courant newspaper on Wednesday, November 17, 2021. President Miller asked if any guests wanted to make a comment on the proposed property tax increase. President Miller asked again if there any further questions or comments and hearing none, at 6:04 p.m. considered the public hearing on the proposed property tax increase closed.
CALL TO ORDER
After the public hearing, President Miller called the regular meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. with the board members answering roll call present: Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, and Ken Miller. Superintendent Kent Bugg, CSBO Jason Smith, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Tammy Elledge, Director of Special Populations Luke Krippel, Principal Christopher Spencer, member of the press Ann Gill, and Board Secretary LaWanda Gagliardo were also in attendance.
NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Introduction/acknowledgement of guests. President Miller welcomed those in attendance.
A. High school Girls Tennis Coach Matt Leman was attendance and recognized Senior Molly Stiles and Sophomore Abby Stiles on their achievement on being State qualifiers for the Girls Tennis team. Coach Leman provided the Board with a summary of Molly and Abby’s season and how well they performed in Sectionals and at the State Tournament. Molly thanked Coach Leman for his guidance and leadership in preparing and coaching them through that experience. The Board of Education and Dr. Bugg congratulated Molly and Abby on their accomplishment.
B. Coal City Music Boosters were in attendance and presented a proposal for a Music Honors Society. Music Booster President, Amy Kostbade presented a proposal to the Board of Education for a Music Booster Honors Society. Mrs. Kostbade provided the Board with a summary of the process for interested students. The Boosters would like the Music Honors Society to be acknowledged by the Board, but will be funded strictly through the Boosters. The Board will review the proposal in further detail, and will discuss and/or take action at the next Board meeting.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
1. In regard to agenda items – none.
2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.)
Jeff Wynn from the Morris area, addressed the Board of Education regarding SB818. Board President Miller thanked Mr. Wynn for attending the meeting and advised him that at this time Coal City School District is in compliance and will discuss SB818 at the appropriate time.
Emily McNabb from the Morris area, read a statement to the Board of Education regarding CRT. The child of Ms. Greisen read a statement to the Board of Education regarding face mask coverings.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
President Miller asked if there were any items that the Board would like to remove from the consent agenda. Hearing none, President Miller asked for a motion to approve the consent agenda, and the following building usage requests as listed:
Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Lander seconded to approve the consent agenda including:
Group Building Ins. Date
Chromium Winds/Cavaliers HS Yes 11/14/21 & 11/21/21 Forte Arts Center PAC Yes 01/23/22
MINUTES CLOSED SESSION MINUTES November 3, 2021 - Regular Meeting November 3, 2021 - Regular Meeting November 24, 2021 - BSSW Canceled November 24, 2021 – BSSW Canceled
FINANCIAL REPORTS
Activity Fund Reports – October 2021
Treasurer’s Report – October 2021
Monthly Manual Check Report – November 2021
Payroll Report – November 2021
Accounts Payable Report – December 2021
PERSONNEL
Resignations
• Alisha Denny – 3.2-hour Cafeteria Server at the Elementary School. Ms. Denny’s last day will be November 23, 2021.
Employments - pending satisfactory completion of all state requirements
• Daniel Ripplinger – Full-time 1:1 Aide Cross Category Program at the Middle – Mr. Ripplinger is replacing Ms. Horkavy who transfer to the Elementary School.
• Trisha Dennis – 3-hour Cafeteria Server at the High School. Ms. Dennis is replacing Alisha Denny.
• Sabrina Swearingen – 3-hour Cafeteria Server at the Middle School.
Employee Transfers
• Destiny Horkavy - 1:1 Aide at the Middle School is transferring to Elementary School as a 1:1 Aide. Ms. Horkavy is replacing Mrs. Opyd.
• Tammy Opyd – 1:1 Aide at the Elementary School is transferring to the High School as a 1:1 Aide for the PATH Program.
Leave Requests
• Lori Hamilton – 3rd Grade Teacher at the Elementary School - Ms. Hamilton is requesting an eight (8) day paid medical leave, with use of accumulated sick leave in accordance with the Teacher’s Negotiated Agreement, from Wednesday, December 8, 2021 through Friday, December 17, 2021. Ms. Hamilton plans to return back to work Monday, December 20, 2021.
• Mellissa Backus – Science Teacher at the High School – Ms. Backus is requesting a sixty-three (63) day paid maternity leave, with use of accumulated sick leave in accordance with the Teacher’s Negotiated Agreement, from approximately Wednesday, February 16, 2022 through Friday, May 27, 2022. Ms. Backus is also requesting a one (1) year unpaid maternity leave a of absence, in accordance with the Teacher’s Negotiated Agreement, starting approximately August 15, 2022 through May 26, 2023.
• Elizabeth Smetana – Special Ed Teacher at the High School – Ms. Smetana is requesting a twenty (20) day paid maternity leave, with use of accumulated sick leave in accordance with the Teacher’s Negotiated Agreement, from approximately Monday, May 2, 2022 through Friday, May 27, 2022. Which is anticipated last contractual day for faculty.
• Megan Henze – Special Ed Teacher of the Transitions Program at the High School – Mrs. Henze is requesting a thirty-nine (39) day extension on her maternity leave, with use of accumulated sick leave in accordance with the Teacher’s Negotiated Agreement, from Tuesday, January 11, 2022 through Thursday, March 10, 2022. Mrs. Henze is planning to return Friday, March 11, 2022. At the August 4, 2021 Board meeting, the Board approved a forty-seven (47) day paid maternity leave from October 19, 2021 through January 10, 2022.
• Brea Owensby – 1st Grade Teacher at the Early Childhood Center - Mrs. Owensby is requesting an additional five (5) days be added to her paid maternity leave, with use of accumulated sick leave in accordance with the Teacher’s Negotiated Agreement. This would take her total days requested from forty-eight (48) to fifty-three (53) from Monday, December 6, 2021 through Friday, March 4, 2022. At the November 3 Board meeting, the Board approved a forty-eight (48) day paid maternity leave. Mrs. Owensby’s request for unpaid FMLA has not changed which was twenty-three (23) unpaid FMLA days from Monday, March 8, 2022 through Thursday, April 14, 2022. Mrs. Owensby still plans to return to work Tuesday, April 19, 2022.
Extra-Curricular Assignments
Athletic Director Dan Hutchings is recommending the following for Coaching/Volunteering positions: High School Wrestling Volunteer Coaches:
Joe Widlowski
Bob McGuinn
Jake Masters
Greg Keigher
Middle School Wrestling Coaches: (splitting one stipend)
Clyde Lindemuth
Vince Piatak
Joe Widlowski
Clinton Poyner
Administrator HSA Payments
HSA payments are proposed to be paid by the Board for the following Administrators:
| Bugg | Kent | $1,400.00 |
| Carlson | Tracy | $2,800.00 |
| Davidson | Amanda | $2,800.00 |
| Elledge | Tammy | $2,800.00 |
| Gagliardo | LaWanda | $2,800.00 |
| Herrera-Ford | Amanda | $2,800.00 |
| Hook | Matt | $2,800.00 |
| Hutchings | Dan | $2,800.00 |
| Johnson | Travis | $2,800.00 |
| Kenney | Jennifer | $2,800.00 |
| Krippel | Luke | $2,800.00 |
| Mikula | Corey | $2,800.00 |
| Monbrum | Rodney | $2,800.00 |
| Smith | Jason | $2,800.00 |
| Spencer | Christopher | $2,800.00 |
| Trotter | Taryn | $1,400.00 |
| Wickiser | Denny | $2,800.00 |
Reciprocal reporting criminal offenses by students’ agreement for Grundy County.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
ADMINISTRATORS' REPORTS
A. EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER REPORT
Principal Davidson Reported:
Calendar of Events:
November 24th - NO SCHOOL
November 25th - NO SCHOOL
November 26th - NO SCHOOL
November 30th - A Team Meeting @ 2:50pm
December 1st - Early Dismissal
December 2nd - PBS Meeting @ 2:50pm
December 7th - A Team Meeting @ 2:50pm
December 8th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:50pm
December 14th - Kindergarten Team Meeting @ 11:10am
December 14th - 1st Grade Team Meeting @ 12:40pm
December 14th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:50pm
December 15th - PreK Team Meeting @ 10:45am
December 15th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:50pm
December 16th - Specials Team Meeting @ 2:50pm
December 21st - A Team Meeting @ 2:50pm
December 23rd - January 4th - Winter Break
January 4th - Teacher’s Institute
January 5th - Students Return
Current ECC Enrollment for 2021-2022:
PreK: 128
Kindergarten: 141
1st Grade: 145
Total: 414 (in PowerSchool as of November 23rd, 2021)
Completed Safety Drills:
Fire Drill (with CC Fire Department) - Friday, September 3rd
Shelter-in-Place Drill - Tuesday, September 14th
Month-in-Review:
• The ECC completed Parent/Teacher conferences on November 3rd and November 9th. The majority of our conferences were in-person; however, virtual conferences were held at the request of the parent. Overall, we had roughly 98% attendance across PreK - 1st grade. It was great to have parents in the building and have conversations regarding student progress.
• The Preschool Diagnostic Team along with our self-contained autism teacher and one preschool teacher are working to put together a sensory room similar to the room at the ES for our students for the Spring semester or Fall of 2022. The team has met virtually with a representative and have preliminary sketches of what the room may look like. The room is being financed through a grant and we are very excited to offer this to our students struggling to regulate throughout the school day.
• Students in Art are helping Mrs. Brncich to decorate ornaments to display on the Christmas trees at the upcoming Festival of Trees!
• We are very much looking forward to December at the ECC as it is the most magical time of the school year!!
Recognition:
• Thank you to Mr. Micetich for opening up a YouTube link for our students to view the middle school musical - Descendants!! Our school was not able to attend the school performances on Friday, November 12th, so Mr. Micetich allowed us to watch virtually. The students have been enjoying watching the musical this week and last week during the school day.
• Continued thanks to the staff for being so flexible and willing to jump in and help whenever and wherever needed!
• Continued thanks to the front office staff as our phone calls, contact tracing, symptoms tracking, etc. seems never-ending some days. It is much appreciated the work that is being done to make sure out students and staff are safe at school.
B. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Trotter reported:
Calendar of Events:
November 24th-26th: Thanksgiving Break
November 29th: 2nd Grade Team Meeting
November 30th: 3rd Grade Team Meeting
November 30th: Taryn - Administrator’s Academy
December 1st: Early Dismissal
December 1st: A Team Meeting
December 2nd: LLT Meeting
December 2nd: SAP Meeting
December 7th: PBS Meeting
December 8th: IEP Meetings
December 9th: Culture Committee Meeting
December 14th: SPED Team Meeting
December 15th: A Team Meeting
December 15th: Teaching and Learning Committee Meeting
December 16th: SPED Problem-Solving Meeting
December 22nd: Christmas Parties
December 23rd-January 4th: Winter Break
ES Enrollment:
2nd Grade:134 students
3rd Grade: 132 students
Total: 266 (enrolled as of 11/18/21)
Personnel:
• Tammy (Mueller) Opyd has moved to an aide position at the High School and Destiny Horkavy has joined us from the Middle School.
CCES Happenings and Recognitions:
November has flown by at Coal City Elementary School
• Halloween parties and parade were a lot of fun this year. The weather did not allow us to parade outside but we did stream the event on Facebook Live. It was great to see the students having fun in their costumes.
• We finished our Parent/Teacher Conferences on November 9th. Each teacher held conferences with each family either virtually or in person over the two-night schedule. Everything went well.
• We honored our Veterans with a wonderful Veterans Day display at the ES. The students brought in pictures and made posters with Veterans they know. We added pictures of the display to our website, social media accounts and newsletters. We also had Red, White and Blue Day on Friday, November 12th.
• November 12th was the end of our first trimester. It’s hard to believe how fast the year is going.
• Jack Micetich shared the video of the Middle School Musical, The Descendants, with us so our students could watch the performance. As always, Jack and the students did a fantastic job!!
• On Monday, December 15th we supported National Diabetes Awareness Month by wearing blue shirts.
• Friday, November 19th was Neon Day at the ES. The students all got glow sticks and we shut off the lights for a fun experience.
• I cannot thank our office staff enough, Anne Watson, Amiee DePodesta, and Alison Gill all go above and beyond to help our staff, students and families. I appreciate each of them so much.
C. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Carlson reported:
Calendar of Upcoming Events:
12/1 - Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.
12/1 - 11:35 Dismissal
12/2 - LLT 8:00-11:00 a.m. at CCFD on Berta Road
12/2 - SpEd Team Meeting 3:00
12/2 - 5th/6th Grade Band Concert 7:00 p.m. at CCHS
12/3 - Holiday Hat Day
12/3 - Final GCN Online Trainings are Due
12/3 - Storm Drill Discussion 10:50
12/3 - Madrigals Performance 1:00
12/6 - SAP Meeting 3:00
12/6-12/17 - CCUSD Toy and Gift Wrap Drive
12/7 - TALC Meeting 3:00
12/7 - PSO Zoom Meeting 6:30 p.m.
12/8 - Erin's Law 5th Grade Google Meet 8:05 a.m.
12/8 - 5th Grade Team Meeting 3:00
12/9 - Specials Team Meeting 3:00
12/10 - Favorite Holiday Character Day
12/13 - A Team Meeting 3:00
12/14 - PBS Meeting 3:00
12/15 - Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.
12/15 - 4th Grade Team Meeting 3:00 p.m.
12/16 - Erin's Law 4th Grade Google Meet 8:05 a.m.
12/16 - SpEd Team Data/Problem Solving Meeting 3:00
12/17 - Holiday Sweater Day
12/20 - Holiday PJ Day
12/20 - SAP Meeting 3:00
12/21 - Grinch Day
12/22 - Over the Top Holiday Spirit Day
12/22 - PBS Event
12/23-1/4 - Winter Break
1/5 - Teacher Institute Day
1/6 - School Resumes
Current Enrollment:
4th Grade 151
5th Grade 162
Total: 313 - This includes two 4th grade students enrolled in other special education programs outside of CCIS.
Emergency/Crisis Drills Completed:
Evacuation/Fire 8/19/21; 10/20/21
Shelter-in-Place/Storm 8/18/21
Lockdown 8/20/21
Bus Evacuation 9/13/21
Previous Month in Review:
• During ASAP (After School Assistance Program) students receive homework help from 3:00- 4:00 three days a week from Mrs. Cowherd or Mrs. Rink. We currently have 13 students in ASAP; six in 4th grade and seven in 5th grade.
• We hosted Parent/Teacher Conferences on 11/3 and 11/9 from 4:00-8:00. Parents had the option of an in-person or a virtual conference, and the majority came in person. Parents were given IAR reports, AIMSweb reports, Progress Monitoring reports (if applicable), current grades, and a Typing Agent progress report.
o 4th Grade = 94% Attendance Rate
o 5th Grade = 92% Attendance Rate
• CCIS hosted a Scholastic Book Fair during the week of November 8th. The book fair was also open during the 11/9 parent/teacher conferences, and many parents and students were happy to purchase books.
• On November 12th, we walked to CCHS to see the first act of Disney’s Descendants, the CCMS musical.
• We celebrated Blue Shirt Day for Diabetes Awareness on November 15th.
• We held the following Spirit Days this month: Baseball Day, Red-White-Blue Day, Twin Day, Neon/Glow Party Day, Camouflage Day and Fall Colors Day.
Student Recognition:
Congratulations to the following Students of the Week:
Week of 11/1: Luca Chellino, Olivia Ferrari, Lila Symons and Ben Manering
Week of 11/8: Kendall Shute and Paul Wilczak
Week of 11/15: Tristen Brncich, Marilah Kaplan, Kaden Brown and Ella Sage
Staff Recognition:
I want to recognize and thank Mr. Spencer for regularly checking in on us.
I want to recognize Steven McCleary, who was named the Illinois Central Eight’s Coach of the Year for Boys Soccer.
I want to recognize the following staff members who received the weekly CCIS Kudos:
- Mrs. Gaffigan for making all of the staff Halloween shirts
- Mrs. Rose for making the banner for Megan Bugg for everyone in the district to sign
- Mrs. Harney for helping out everywhere as needed
D. MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Johnson reported:
Calendar of Events:
Nov. 24 - 28 No School – Thanksgiving Break
November 24 Board Study Session – 6:00 p.m. – CCHS
November 29 Wrestling and Volleyball Seasons Start
December 1 12:00 p.m. EARLY DISMISSAL
Staff Development Day
Board of Education Meeting – 6:00 p.m. – CCMS
December 2 5th/6th Grade Band Concert – 7:00 p.m. – CCHS
December 7 7th/8th MS Band Concert – 7:00 p.m. – CCHS
December 13 Music Boosters Meeting – 7:00 p.m. – CCMS
December 14 8th Grade Chorus Concert – 7:30 p.m. – CCHS
December 20 Athletic Boosters Meeting – 7:00 p.m. – Unit Office
December 22 2nd Quarter Classes End
Dec. 23 - Jan. 4 NO SCHOOL – Winter Break
January 5 Teacher Institute Day
January 6 Classes Resume
CCMS Attendance:
6th Grade 163
7th Grade 159
8th Grade 181
Total: 503
Month in Review:
• CCMS and the Unit #1 teachers took part in staff development training/department meetings on November 3 at CCHS.
• On November 6, 7th graders Jacob Cimino and Sean Bergin McKenzie represented CCMS at the IMEA Middle School Concert held at Lincoln Way Central High School. Jacob and Sean spent the day practicing with other middle school students and then performed a concert on the evening of November 6. Congrats to Jacob, Sean and Mrs. Bontrager on this great accomplishment.
• Coal City students observed Veterans Day on November 11.
• Congratulations to Jack Micetich and the cast of “The Descendants”. The students worked extremely hard to prepare for the show. The students performed on November 12, 13 and 14. All of the production was outstanding from the singing to the acting to the stage design. It was once again a great showcase for our students and the musical and acting talents that they have. It was especially nice to be able to have the students perform in the CCPAC again. All three performances were well attended and we saw great community support for our musical. Special thanks to Mr. Micetich and his creative team (Ann Gill, Shannon D’Agostino and Kim Scerine) for their hard work, long hours, organization and flexibility in working with the students and their busy schedules.
• On November 13, the Coal City Middle School Speech Team traveled to Reed Custer Middle School for the IESA Speech Contest. Students participated in solo acting, impromptu speaking, duet acting, improvisation duet acting, and chorale reading. Thanks to our CCMS Speech Coaches, Jen Munsterman and Meagan Van Duyne for their work with the Speech Team.
• The following students earned awards at the Speech Contest.
o Kyla Kohler – 1st Place – Solo Acting –The Eve of an Argument
o Kenzie Lovell – 1st Place – Solo Acting – The Eve of an Argument
o Jordan Olson – 1st Place – Solo Acting – The Tribulation Room
o Sophia Vota and Rhaina Vanek – 1st Place – Duet Acting Doomsday – Judges Choice
o Kenzie Lovell and Jordan Olson – 1st Place – Duet Acting The Great Goldi-Lock-Up
o Kenzie Lovel and Jordan Olson – 1st Place – Duet Improvisation
• CCMS students observed Thanksgiving Break from November 24 - 28.
• CCMS will be hosting our Fall/Winter Concerts in the next few weeks; performances are:
o 5/6th Band Concert-Thursday, December 2
o 7/8th Band Concert-Tuesday, December 7
o 8th Chorus Concert- Tuesday, December 14
• All of the musical performances will be held at the Coal City Performing Arts Center and will start at 7:00pm. Best of luck to Mrs. Bontrager and Mrs. McDowell on these upcoming shows and we hope you are able to come out and see these concerts and see our students showcase their musical talents.
E. HIGH SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Spencer reported:
Calendar of Events:
December 1 Early Dismissal – Teacher Institute
December 4 - 5 Promfest Festival of Trees – Diamond Banquet Hall
December 23 Winter Break
January 5 Teacher Institute
January 6 Classes Resume
Recognition:
Congratulations to all of our vocal music teachers and the students who auditioned for the District Level ILMEA.
• 1st Chair Basoonist: Mackenzie Messina
• District Level Senior Choir: Melody Kinder, Mason Natyshok, Aidan Kostbade, and Kayla Connelly
• All State Choir: Aidan Kostbade
Month in Review:
• Mrs. Sondgeroth hosted the Fourth Annual Spanish Honor Society Induction at the CCHS Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, November 16, 2021. The ceremony was a wonderful celebration of our students.
• Mr. Boresi and the Coalers with Character collected turkeys to donate to Help 4 Hope for Thanksgiving. Thank you, Mr. Boresi and students, for continuing to support our community.
Current Enrollment Figures @ CCHS as of November 23, 2021:
9th Grade 142
10th Grade 140
11th Grade 152
12th Grade 162
Total= 596
Discipline Report from November 1st to November 23rd
Infraction Totals:
Rule Violation 12
Class Cut 6
Vaping material/Vaping 1
Destruction of School Property 1
2021 – 2022 Page 131
Coal City Community Unit School District #1
Board of Education Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, December 1, 2021
Possession of Drugs 1
Totals: 21
F. SPECIAL POPULATIONS REPORT
Director Krippel reported:
District Leadership Team:
Our District Leadership Team met on Tuesday, November 16th. The leadership team consists of each building’s principal, school psychologists, reading specialists and the ELA, Math and Student Services department leaders. The overall goal of this team is to analyze reading and math data in order to determine deficit areas. More importantly, once these areas are identified, the team must determine how to supplement the curriculum with interventions designed to address the deficits. Our school psychologists organized and presented reading and math data that shows student benchmarks dating back to the fall of 2020. This data can be viewed using the link below. Our team came to the following three conclusions based on this data:
1. Although there are plenty of students who require interventions, the overall data is encouraging considering the current covid-19 pandemic.
2. Students are resilient! Even with a half day schedule for most of the 2020-2021 school year, most students demonstrated growth even though their instruction has been limited. 3. Our teachers and staff continue to do great work with our students, especially during these challenging times of limited schedules, remote learning, etc.
DLT Grade level overview last year and this Fall
Preschool Educational Environment Codes:
In recent years, the Illinois State Board of Education has worked with the Early Choices program with the goal of assisting preschool programs become more inclusive and less self-contained. Each district is evaluated based on the indicators below. As you may recall, our district failed to meet indicator 6B during the 2019-2020 school year. We were also aware that indicator 6A would also be a challenge for 2020-2021 due to students in Kindergarten no longer counting towards our overall numbers. Based on the numbers we received last fall, our preschool program has been adjusted by replacing two self-contained classrooms with blended classrooms. This adjustment allowed our program to expand our overall numbers and also move closer to the state targets. While meeting the state’s targets this year is not a guarantee, our program will definitely be much closer to the targets based on our new format. Overall, we will continue to provide early interventions to the best of our ability while also doing our best to meet the state’s targets.
Vacancies:
Reading Aide at Coal City Intermediate School (3 hours)
Reading Aide at Coal City Early Childhood Center (3 hours)
G. CURRICULUM REPORT
Director Elledge reported:
Professional Development
We are wrapping up our fall professional development and finalizing our plan for spring. Our spring professional development will focus on improvements in all curricular areas. Due to the pandemic the past two summers has limited our work in assessments, curriculum and data analysis. In addition to our focus on curriculum we will also be working on gap analysis in the SECA curriculum at all grade levels in all departments.
Department News
Department meetings have begun at the high school to begin planning for the 2022-2023 school year. While many small changes are happening, one of the biggest is the introduction of American Sign Language as another language option for our students.
Members of the high school English department are continuing their work with Joliet Junior College to implement a transitional English course. Such a course will allow our students to be ready for credit bearing course work as they enter college.
Illinois School Report Card
The first release of the school report cards was at the end of October. Preliminary information from state testing will be on December 2nd. Complete information about the new metrics and timeframes can be found here: https://www.isbe.net/Documents/RCR-112021.pdf.
H. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Dr. Bugg reported:
1. Enclosures
A. Monthly student enrollment figures were available for review.
DATES TO REMEMBER
December 1 – Early Dismissal & Kindergarten Music Concert @ 6:30 p.m.
December 2 – 5th & 6th Grade Band Concert @ 7:00 p.m.
December 7 – 7th & 8th Grade Band Concert @ 7:00 p.m.
December 10 - 12 – Madrigals @ HS
December 14 – 8th Grade Chorus Concert @ 7:00 p.m.
December 16 - High School Band Concert
December 23 – January 4 – Winter Break - No School
January 5 – Teacher Institute – No Student Attendance
January 6 – Classes Resume – Students Return
I. GRUNDY AREA VOCATIONAL CENTER REPORT
Mr. Lander reported:
1. Reviewed and approved the proposal sent by Dr. Pat Halloran to lead the GAVC Strategic Planning Process.
2. Approved and accepted the resignation of Seth Hedrick, Building Trades Instructor.
3. Approved the posting of the instructor and/or classroom Assistant position for the Building Trades program.
4. Approved the SKILLS USA student organization Annual Fundraising Event. 5. Discussed the calendar for the FY 23 school year.
J. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR REPORT
Athletic Director Dan Hutchings reported:
Calendar of Events:
November 20 IESA 7th Grade Girls Basketball Regional at Frankfort Hickory Creek
November 20 Lady Coaler Varsity Girls won the Reed-Custer Comet Classic going 4-0 FS Lady Coalers took 3rd place at the Seneca FS Invite
November 22, 23, 26, & 27 - Turkey Tournament Varsity & Sophomore Boys Basketball GSW, Morris, & Serena
December 2 & 3 IESA 8th Grade Girls Basketball Regional Host
Boys Basketball Numbers
3 Seniors
9 Juniors
9 Sophomores
14 Freshmen
Girls Basketball Numbers
6 Seniors
4 Juniors
6 Sophomores
7 Freshmen
Wrestling
5 Seniors
12 Juniors
6 Sophomores
8 Freshmen
Basketball/Competition Cheerleading
4 Seniors
1 Juniors
2 Sophomores
2 Freshmen
All indoor sports are following the IDPH/ISBE All Sports Policy. MASKS must be worn inside at all times for participants and spectators. The only exceptions are for wrestling when they are live 1 on 1 wrestling (Competition). The other exception is when the competitive cheer team is performing stunts.
Middle School Athletics:
• Girls’ basketball seasons are in the IESA state Series.
• Boys’ basketball is 5 games into their season.
• Wrestling and Volleyball are set to begin practicing on November 29.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
1. In regard to agenda items
Dr. Bugg spoke briefly about the COVID numbers within the district. The district will continue to follow the mitigations that are in place, and Dr. Bugg will continue to provide the Board with an update if/when the numbers change. There has been no evidence of transmission at school, and Dr. Bugg feels that the mitigations the district has in place are still safe. Dr. Bugg thanked teachers, secretaries, and administrators for continuing to follow the mitigations that are keeping students in school.
2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – none.
OLD BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION ON TAX OBJECTIONS
Dr. Bugg discussed the status of three tax objections in excess of $100,000. Two of those tax objections were filed by the property owners. The first discussion was on the Ferrari Properties, LLC tax objection regarding a property on South Broadway. The second discussion was on the Hoffman Property Holding, LLC tax objection regarding the logistics facility on Reed Road The third tax objection was filed by the school district regarding the General Electric-Hitachi facility located on Dresden Road. Dr. Bugg will provide an update at the January Board meeting.
B. DISCUSSION ON EXELON PROPERTY TAX AGREEMENT
Dr. Bugg updated the Board on his communication with Exelon regarding the start of negotiations on a new long term tax agreement for the Dresden Station. Initial meetings with the taxing districts and Exelon will begin in December. The 2021 levy was the final levy of the current agreement. Dr. Bugg will update the Board at the January Board meeting.
C. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVING THE FINAL 2021 LEVY
Section 17-11 of the School Code requires the school board of each district to ascertain, as near as practicable, annually, how much money must be raised by special tax for transportation purposes, if any, for educational purposes and for operations and maintenance purposes for the next ensuing year. These amounts must be certified and filed with the County Clerk on or before the last Tuesday in December annually. The Certificate of Tax Levy form may be used to meet the requirement of this section. The 2021 tentative levy was adopted at the November Board meeting. The board adopted the final 2021 Property Tax Levy. The final levy was enclosed for your review.
Mr. Bianchetta moved and Mr. Hamilton seconded to adopt the 2021 Property Tax Levy for the Coal City Community Unit School District #1 and approve the certification and filing with the Grundy and Will County Clerk.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Robert Bianchetta, Shawn Hamilton, Mary Gill, Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
D. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON AWARDING THE FARM LEASE BID RECOMMENDATION
CSBO Jason Smith provided the Board with a summary of the bid process and made a recommendation for awarding the bid to Frank Santoro. The Board approved the farm lease bid to Frank Santoro for 5 years for a total bid of $173,157.21. This is for the school district property located at Spring and Berta Road.
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to approve the lease award to Frank Santoro for 5 years as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
NEW BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON MID-YEAR GRADUATION/EXCLUSION REQUESTS
The high school guidance office had received requests for mid-year graduation. Co-Principal Jennifer Kenney recommended that the following students be considered eligible for mid-year graduation/exclusion. The students requesting mid-year graduation have met the necessary requirements for graduation. Those receiving mid-year exclusions will complete their requirements through correspondence courses by May 1, 2022.
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mrs. Gill seconded to approve the following mid-year graduates, student numbers: 2022342, 20221194, 2022203, 2022160, 20221202, 2022379, 2022317 and the following mid-year exclusions, student number: 2022003.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Mary Gill, Robert Bianchetta, Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
B. DISCUSSION ON 2022 – 2023 SCHOOL CALENDAR
The Public School District Calendar prescribed in Section 10-19 of the School Code mandates a minimum of 185 days in the proposed school calendar to ensure 176 days of student attendance. Dr. Bugg discussed the draft 2022 – 2023 School Calendar. Mr. Spencer worked with Union leadership to receive their input on the school calendar. Mr. Spencer explained that the calendar is still a work in progress as he just received a final draft of the GAVC school calendar on Wednesday. Discussions will continue with the Union to gather their input as well.
C. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVING THE GRUNDY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERECE ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
The district has received a request from the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce to renew the annual membership. District #1 has been a long-time member of this organization.
Mr. Lander moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve payment of the annual membership fee of $265 to the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Chuck Lander, Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
OPEN FOR ITEMS NOT KNOWN AT AGENDA PREPARATION TIME
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
1. In regard to agenda items – none.
2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.)
Dr. Bugg addressed the Board of Education and thanked the administration team for stepping up in a big way in his absence. Dr. Bugg feels very strongly that the district is good hands. Board President Miller also thanked the teachers, building Principals, and the staff for always doing what’s best for students. The Board is very thankful that Dr. Bugg is back.
CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Lander moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to go to closed session at 6:55 p.m. for the purpose of considering information regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees, and collective bargaining matters.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Chuck Lander, Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
When the Board returned to open session, President Miller called the regular meeting to order at 7:33 p.m. with the board members answering roll call present: Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, and Ken Miller.
ACTION AS A RESULT OF CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Lander seconded to approve the 4-year contract to employ Christopher Spencer as Superintendent effective July 1, 2022.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
BOARD STUDY SESSION OF THE WHOLE DATE: DECEMBER 29, 2021 @ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: JAUNUARY 5, 2022 @ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
ADJOURNMENT
Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Lander seconded to adjourn the meeting at 7:38 p.m. President Miller asked if there was any opposition to the motion, hearing none considers the motion approved.
https://4.files.edl.io/bc07/01/10/22/154123-ea7764c6-df14-4ea8-adab-3e8ed672c63f.pdf
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