Grundy Reporter

Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education met Dec. 7.

Here are the minutes provided by the board:

CALL TO ORDER 

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 Christopher Spencer, CSBO Jason Smith, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Tammy Elledge, Director of Special Populations Luke Krippel, Board Secretary LaWanda Gagliardo, and member of the press Ann Gill was also in attendance. Board member Quint Harmon arrived at 6:01 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 2022 property tax levy on Wednesday, November 2, 2022. A notice was published in the Coal City Courant newspaper on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. President Miller asked if any guests wanted to make a comment on the proposed property tax increase. President Miller asked again if there were any further questions or comments, and hearing none, at 6:00 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 6:01 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 Christopher Spencer, CSBO Jason Smith, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Tammy Elledge, Director of Special Populations Luke Krippel, Board Secretary LaWanda Gagliardo, and member of the press Ann Gill was also in attendance.

NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS 

1. Introduction/acknowledgement of guests. – none.

2. There were several thank you notes received from members of the Music Honor Society to the Board of Education sharing their appreciation for the Board’s support. The notes were passed around for members of the Board to read.

COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR 

1. In regard to agenda items – none.

2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – none.

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. Including the following building usage requests:

Group Building Date 

Step By Step PAC 12/14/2022

Coal City Soccer Club IS 11/22 & 11/29 - 12/6, 12/8, 12/15, 12/20 -1/3 & 1/5 

Coal City Soccer Club ES 12/13&12/14, 12/19&12/21, 01/09-01/12, 01/16-01/19, 01/23- 01/26, 02/06-02/09, 02/13-02/16, 02/20-02/23

Cavaliers/Chromium Woods MS 12/10/22

Cavaliers AP & E MS 3/10/23 – 3/12/23

Mr. Lander moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the consent agenda.

MINUTES CLOSED SESSION MINUTES November 2, 2022 - Regular Meeting November 2, 2022 - Regular Meeting

FINANCIAL REPORTS 

Activity Fund Reports – October 2022

Treasurer’s Report – October 2022

Monthly Manual Check Report – November 2022

Payroll Report – November 2022

Accounts Payable Report – December 2022

PERSONNEL 

Employments - pending satisfactory completion of all state requirements 

• Samantha Schneider – Substitute Teacher – Ms. Schneider will cover the maternity leave of Middle School Counselor Lauren Kempes. Ms. Schneider will start Thursday, December 1, 2022. 

• Samantha Hill - Preschool Teacher at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Hill will work the 2nd semester due to an increase in Preschool enrollment numbers.

• Shian Harvey part-time Custodial Assistants for the district.

• Matt Perino part-time Custodial Assistants for the district.

• Miki Torino part-time Custodial Assistants for the district.

• Wyatt Wickiser part-time Custodial Assistants for the district.

• Jacklyn Cvitanovich – Full-time Classroom Aide at the Early Childhood Center. Ms. Cvitanovich will start December 19, 2022

• Cristal Cabral – 1:1 Special Ed. Aide at the Early Childhood Center. Ms. Cabral will start December 19, 2022

Leave Requests 

• Tim Larson – Custodian at the Elementary School – Mr. Larson is requesting the use of three (3) personal days from Thursday, January 26, 2023 through Monday, January 30, 2023. Mr. Larson is also requesting a sixty-one (61) day paid medical leave with use of accumulated sick leave in accordance with the SEIU Local #73, from Tuesday, January 31, 2023 through Monday, May 1, 2023.

Administrator HSA Payments

HSA Payments were approved to be paid by the Board for the following Administrators:

Carlson, Tracy	$3,000
Davison, Amanda	$3,000
Elledge, Tammy	$3,000
Gagliardo, LaWanda	$3,000
Hutchings, Dan	$3,000
Johnson, Travis	$3,000
Kenney, Jennifer	$3,000
Krippel, Luke	$3,000
Mikula, Corey	$3,000
Monbrum, Rodney	$3,000
Smith, Jason	$3,000
Spencer, Christopher	$3,000
Trotter, Taryn	$1,500
Wickiser, Denny	$3,000
Total:	$40,500

Roll Call.

Ayes: Chuck Lander, Quint Harmon, 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:

December 1st - Specials Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 2nd - Coaler Friday

December 5th - ECC and ES 12+1 Days of Christmas Fun Begins

December 5th - Support Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 6th - CPI Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 7th - Early Dismissal

December 8th - PBS Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 12th - TALC Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 13th - A Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 14th - PreK Team Meeting @ 10:45 a.m.

December 14th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 15th - Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 19th - New Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 20th - Kindergarten Team Meeting @ 11:15 a.m.

December 20th - 1st Grade Team Meeting @ 12:15 p.m.

December 21st - Custodian Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

December 22nd - January 3rd - Winter Break

January 4th - Teacher’s Institute

January 5th - Classes Resume

January 9th - TALC Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 10th - A Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 11th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 12th - Specials Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 16th - NO SCHOOL

January 17th - Support Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 18th - Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 19th - PBS Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 23rd - New Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 24th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 25th - PreK Team Meeting @ 10:45 a.m.

January 25th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

January 26th - A Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.

Current Enrollment:

PreK: 162

Kindergarten: 127

1st Grade: 148

Total: 437 (in PowerSchool as of November 29th, 2022) 

Completed Safety Drills 

• Fire Drill - September 21st, 2022 (with fire department present)

• Bus Evacuation Drill - September 8th, 2022

• Shelter-in-place Drill - September 8th, 2022

• Lockdown Drill - September 20th, 2022 (with police department present) 

• Monthly Panic Button check - October 24th

• Monthly Phone check for Lockdown - October 24th

• Monthly AED Device check - October 25th

• Monthly Phone Check for Lockdown - November 14th

• Monthly AED Device check - November 29th

• Monthly Panic Button check - November 30th

Month-in-Review:

• November is a short month filled with so much fun leading up to the holidays. The Kindergarten and 1st grade students were able to go to CCHS on Wednesday, November 9th to see Act One of the CCMS musical - Newsies! The students loved riding the bus and going to the “big” school! It was a fun afternoon and the students were very well behaved for our first “field trip” since COVID.

• Students worked hard on various Thanksgiving projects and preparing for a few days off to celebrate! The hallways were filled with turkeys and favorite Thanksgiving food projects! 

• Upcoming - The ECC staff will enjoy the ECC 12+1 Days of Holiday Fun leading up to break. Students are included in many of the days as well. It is always a special time of the year at the ECC! The tree will go up soon and donated toys will surround the tree. December is magical with the youngest Coalers!

Recognition:

• Sadly, Ahmad Hamdan (OT Intern with Jen Swanson) will be finished with his internship at the ECC on Friday, December 2nd. He is phenomenal with the students and has created a bond with the staff. He is never afraid to get on the floor and play or jump in to help with anything even in the most difficult situations. He will be missed! We wish him the best of luck on his future endeavors and we hope he is not a stranger to the ECC!!

• Before the next board report, Mrs. Kailee Walgren will have her 1st baby! We are not sure of the sex of the baby, but baby Walgren is very loved. We will celebrate Kailee and her new baby on Friday, December 9th. Congratulations to Kailee and Ryan!

B. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL REPORT 

Principal Trotter reported:

Calendar of Events: 

December 7th: 11:45 a.m. dismissal

December 8th: LLT Meeting

December 15th: BLT Meeting

December 21st: 11:45 Dismissal

December 21st: Classroom Holiday Parties

December 22nd-January 3rd: Winter Break

ES Enrollment: 

2nd Grade:147 students

3rd Grade: 139 students

Total: 286 (enrolled as of 12/1/22) 

CCES Happenings and Recognitions: 

The month of November flew by at the Elementary School.

● We started the month with a visit from the Coal City Fire Department. This was a rescheduled visit that was scheduled to take place in October but was canceled due to weather. 

● Our students also welcomed a staff member from Guardian Angel Community Services for the Erin’s Law presentation. This is the first time in a few years that we have been able to do the presentation in person instead of virtually. The presenter did a great job keeping the students engaged.

● We were also able to take a trip to the high school for a viewing of the Middle School Musical, Newsies. The students truly enjoyed the performance and could not stop talking about it when they returned to our building.

● Mr. Kostbade and members of his High School Science Club came to visit Mrs. Watson’s classroom. Our students were having a great time working on simple experiments with the high school students. Even Mrs. Watson took part in the experiments.

● Mrs. Watson’s class also performed their annual Reader’s Theater for staff, students and family members. We have some natural performers in our building!

● Formal evaluations are wrapping up and now we are working on informal meetings and finalizing the process.

● Our October Book Blast finished as well. I want to thank Anne Watson and Alison Gill as they organized the thousands of books we received. Each child in the building received at least 7 books. This was such a great opportunity to get books in the hands of students. The company was great to work with and I look forward to working with them in the future.

● A huge shout out to Cris Bormet and Anne Watson. They stepped up and helped check in and shelf many books in our library when our librarian was out due to illness. They did an amazing job at keeping the library running.

C. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL REPORT 

Principal Carlson reported:

Calendar of Events: 

12/1 – Favorite Holiday Colors Day

12/1 – Erin's Law 4th Grade Assembly

12/1 – Full Time Aides Meeting 3:00 p.m.

12/1 – 5th Grade Band Concert 7:00 p.m. at CCHS

12/5-12/16 – Toy Drive

12/5 – SAP Meeting 3:00 p.m.

12/6 – TALC 3:00 p.m.

12/7 – 11:35 Dismissal

12/8 – Holiday Character Day

12/8 – Specials Team 3:00 p.m.

12/9 – Erin's Law 5th Grade Assembly

12/9 – Lockdown Drill 10:30 a.m.

12/12-12/16 – Cocoa for a Cause

12/12 – A Team 3:00 p.m.

12/13 – PBS Meeting 3:00 p.m.

12/14 – Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.

12/14 – 4th Grade Team 3:00 p.m.

12/15 – Holiday PJ Day

12/15 – CPI Meeting 3:00 p.m.

12/16 – Custodians Meeting 3:00 p.m.

12/19 – Holiday Hat Day

12/19 – SpEd Team 3:00 p.m.

12/20 – TALC 3:00 p.m.

12/21 – UGLY Holiday Outfit Day

12/21 – 11:35 Dismissal

12/21 – Dashing Through the Halls 9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

12/22-1/3 – Winter Break

Current Enrollment: 

4th Grade 136

5th Grade 158

Total: 294 This includes one 4th grade student and one 5th grade student who are enrolled in other special education programs outside of CCIS.

Emergency/Crisis Drills Completed: 

Evacuation/Fire 8/17/22; 10/21/22

Shelter-in-Place/Storm 8/18/22; 11/18/22

Lockdown 8/19/22; 9/20/22

Bus Evacuation 9/6/22

Previous Month in Review: 

• Members of our local VFW came to CCIS on November 9th for an assembly on the history of the American flag. Students also went outside to the Veterans Memorial to learn about its history and to see the 6 flags of the armed forces of the United States.

• Prior to Veterans Day, CCIS students made cards for our veterans in nursing homes. A local grandparent brought our cards nursing homes in LaSalle, Manteno, Morris and Dwight. 

• On November 9th, we walked to CCHS to see the first act of Newsies, Jr., the CCMS musical. 

• Mrs. Vignocchi organized and offered a Scholastic Book Fair during the week of November 13th. Students were happy to purchase books and posters. Betsy Stahler volunteered at the Book Fair 3 days, and it was wonderful to see her.

• We practiced Sheltering-in-Place on 11/18. This was our second Storm Drill of the school year.

• The Coaler Store came back to CCIS on 11/22 to seal Coaler gear during our lunch periods. We love it when Coaler students come to CCIS!

• We have 16 fifth grade students who are a part of the CCMS wrestling team. Their season began on 11/28.

• We currently have 21 students in ASAP (After School Assistance Program); eleven in 4th grade and ten in 5th grade. Recommended students receive homework help from 3:00-4:00 three days a week from Mrs. Cowherd or Mrs. Rink.

• Our Student Council sponsored the following spirit days this month on Thursdays: Anything BUT a Backpack Day; Red-White-Blue Day; Tech Day; Thanksgiving Colors Day. 

• Every Friday was Coaler Spirit Day at CCIS!

Student Recognition: 

• Congratulations to following Students of the Week:

Week of 10/31: Jillian Erhard, Bentley Plotts, Easton Horath, Caylee Lynn

Week of 11/7: Kayla Caples and Joshua Colegrove

Week of 11/14: Liam Wynn, Hannah Sinkular, Tyler Greene, Gabby Byers

Week of 11/28: Drake Aichele, Jayce Christenson, Cianna McKee, Mackenna Cuddy

• Congratulations to our Fall Coloring Contest winners:

5th Grade: Teigan Trofimchuck, Esperanza Mayorga, Addison Skaggs

4th Grade: Hailey Fisher, Savannah Dick, Eleanor Gordon

Staff Recognition: 

• I want to recognize the following staff members who received the weekly CCIS Kudos: o Mrs. Budde for decorating CCIS like “Monopoly” for our Halloween theme o Mr. Radomski for going above and beyond and always offering to help others o Mrs. Gaffigan for making staff shirts

D. MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT 

Principal Johnson reported:

Calendar of Events: 

December 1 5th/6th Grade Band Concert – 7:00 p.m. – CCHS

December 7 1 2:00 p.m. Early Dismissal

Staff Development Day

Board of Education Meeting – 6:00 p.m. – CCHS

December 13 7th/8th MS Band Concert – 7:00 p.m. – CCHS

December 20 8th Grade Chorus Concert – 7:30 p.m. – CCHS

December 21 2nd Quarter Classes End

12:00 p.m. Early Dismissal

Dec. 23-Jan. 4 NO SCHOOL – Winter Break

January 4 Teacher Institute Day

January 5 Classes Resume

CCMS Attendance: 

6th grade 165

7th grade 163

8th grade 165

Total 493 

Month in Review: 

• On November 2, CCMS students participated in the Erin’s Law presentation. A representative from Guardian Angels in Joliet conducted the presentation for the students. This presentation meets the state mandate on sexual abuse education.

• On November 5, Lorelai Erhard and Sean Bergin represented CCMS at the ILMEA Middle School Concert held at Lincoln Way Central High School. These musicians auditioned for this group and were selected with other outstanding musicians from the area. Lorelai and Sean spent the day practicing with other middle school students and then performed a concert on the evening of November 5. Congrats to Lorelai, Sean and Mrs. Bontrager on this great accomplishment. This is the second year in a row for Sean to earn this honor.

• Coal City students observed Election Day on November 8

• Coal City students observed Veterans Day on November 11.

• Congratulations to Jack Micetich and the cast of “Newsies Jr”. The students worked extremely hard to prepare for the show. The students performed on November 10, 12 and 13. All of the productions were outstanding from the singing, to the acting, and the stage design. It was once again a great showcase for our students and the musical and acting talents that they have. 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’Agastino and Kim Scerine) for their hard work, long hours, organization and flexibility in working with the students and their busy schedules.

• On November 5, the Coal City Middle School Speech Team traveled to Dwight Grade 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 VanDuyne for their work with the Speech Team

• The following students participated in the Speech Contest and ended the day with seven first place finishes, two second-place finishes, and one third-place finish.

Xavier Baer – 7th Grade

Owen Burla – 6th Grade

Denny Greene – 7th Grade

Jackson Hollis- 6th Grade

Gage Kraus – 7th Grade

Hailee Offdenkamp – 6th Grade

Brady Pierson – 7th Grade

Abi Rose – 6th Grade

Emmaline Tibble – 8th Grade

• CCMS students observed Thanksgiving Break from November 23 - 27.

• On November 28, CCMS Wrestling and Volleyball started their winter seasons.

 • CCMS will be hosting our Fall/Winter Concerts in the month of December Performances are: 5/6th Band Concert-Thursday, December 1, 2022

Jazz/Concert Band Concert-Tuesday, December 13. 2022

8th Chorus Concert- Tuesday, December 20, 2022

All of the musical performances were held at the Coal City Performing Arts Center and will start at 7:00 p.m. Best of luck to Mrs. Bontrager and Mr. Kren on these upcoming shows and we hope you were able to come out and see these concerts and see our students showcase their musical talents.

E. HIGH SCHOOL REPORT 

Principal Kenney reported:

Calendar of Events: 

December 3-4 – Festival of Trees

December 6 – CCHS Choral Concert

December 7 – Early Dismissal

December 7 – LRC Rededication

December 8 – LLT Meeting

December 9-11 – Madrigals Performances

December 14 – Recognition Night – Coach Masters Hall of Fame

December 15 – HS BLT Meeting

December 15 – CCHS Band Concert

December 19-21 – Final Exams

December 22 – Winter Break Begins

Recognition: 

• Congratulations to our September Students of the Month that were chosen for “Organization”: Colin Schimandle, Olivia Sage, Elliana Allen, Sydney Larson, Heather Kroeger, Emma Norrington, Melody Kinder, Carley Morris, Gabby Babcock, Ella Edwards, Bradley Burla, Joey Horkavy, and Kylie Jackson.

• Congratulations to our October Students of the month that were chosen for “Character”. Amelia Fritz, Abby Stiles, Kiley McKim, Keaton Stroner, Carter Gill, Colin Schimandle, Jacob Peters, Mataeo Blessing, Trey Buck, Khloe Picard, Lauren Hiles, Owen Quarles, Lance Perino, Weston Kucera, Tyler Gibson, Aidan Kenney, Jacob Cimino, Claire Ellena, Eric VanCleave, Alaina Morales, Anayi Mayorga, Mia Ratajczak, and Griffin Winke.

• Thank you to Brad Boresi for creating our new Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter posts. He found a new program to help unify the posts with Coaler spirit!

• Congratulations to Coach Mark Masters on being named into the IHSA Coaches Hall of Fame!

Month in Review: 

• Winter sports are underway! All teams are already off to a great start. We look forward to seeing their successes as the season continues.

• On October 2nd and 3rd, CCHS held their state required Erin’s Law presentations. Students were very receptive to the presentations.

• Congratulations to all of the students that were inducted into the Spanish Honor Society. • The following students were chosen and attended the ICE Choral Festival at Streator Township High School: Sammy Thackeray, Adaline Dowling, Jordan Olson, Ethan Scrogham, Gianna Savarino, Blake Huddlestun, Mason Hamilton, Elsa Bunton, Olivia Sage, Sophia Vota, Izzy Kostbade, Logan Hausman, Angie Seeley.

• Students that were chosen to attend the Ice Art Workshop at Wilmington High School were Chessa Kuhel, Sammy Thackeray, Amelia Fritz, and Zechariah Abbott. Students completed a collaborative project with the other ICE school.

• Coaler Creations travelled to the IS to run a Coaler Store. Thank you to our students for working with our younger students to promote Coaler pride!

• Students competed in an all-school basic test of knowledge during CCT at the end of the month. Students were questions related to checking accounts, cars, taxes, credit scores, and more! Congratulations to Mrs. Sthay and Mrs. Sondgeroth’s CCT’s for scoring 23 out of 25 questions correctly.

• Mrs. Sondgeroth held her introductory meeting for the 2023-2024 Scotland and Ireland trip.

• Coalers with Character delivered more than 60 turkeys to Help for Hope for the Thanksgiving season. Thank you to the staff and groups in the district for the donations.

Enrollment as of 12/2/22 

Freshman 184

Sophomores 147

Juniors 140

Seniors 161

Total: 632 

Discipline as of 12/2/22 

Cell Phone Infractions 1

Fighting 1

Vaping 5

Theft/Damage to Property 2

Other Infractions 1

Total: 10 

F. SPECIAL POPULATIONS REPORT 

Director Krippel reported:

Preschool Update: 

Our preschool team recently interviewed for the preschool teacher position that will begin after winter break. Sam Hill, who recently received her degree in Early Childhood Education, was selected for this position. Sam has worked within our preschool program for 4 years as a paraprofessional and we are confident that her experiences will help her become a strong teacher.

Our preschool diagnostic team has already begun placing students in our new sections to begin in January. In the meantime, some of our already established sections have been overloaded to ensure students with special needs receive the services they need as soon as possible. Based on our projected number of upcoming preschool screenings and evaluations, we anticipate our new sections to be full by the end of February.

Vacancies: 

Anticipated Preschool Classroom Aide (Beginning in January)

Anticipated 1:1 Aide at Coal City Early Childhood Center (Beginning in January) Special Populations Data:

Coal City Schools IEP Data
ECC ES IS MS HS District
143	53	46	47	71	360
+6 Since  November 1st	-1 Since  November 1st	+1 Since  November 1st	-1 Since  November 1st	-1 Since  November 1st	+4 Since  November 1st

Coal City Schools 504 Data
ECC ES IS MS HS Total
3	8	9	31	52	104
	+1 Since  November 1st	+1 Since  October 1st		+1 Since  November 1st	+3 Since  November 1st

Coaler Academy Data
Full Time Hybrid Intervention Total Students Pending Referrals
4	14	0	18	1

Out of District Placements
Elim Morris HS (ELL) Oswego SD308 High Road Total Students
1	2	1	7	11

Miscellaneous Student Data
ELL Homeless
21	7

Preschool for All Grant (PFA)
Current Students Open Spots
60	0

Overall Preschool Numbers
Current Students IEP Openings At-Risk Openings Waitlist
176/180	2	2	6

G. CURRICULUM REPORT 

Director Elledge reported:

Professional Development: 

December 7th will be our next professional learning opportunity. Teachers will have time to review assessment data and improve assessments. During second semester the teachers will begin reviewing mathematics materials for adoption for next school year. We will host two outside speakers. Dr. Coleman will present on anxiety and student attendance. Julie Larson from Kankakee Health department will present on the use of Narcan kits to save lives from drug overdose.

State Information – Equity Journey Continuum 

At the joint annual conference, the state superintendent offered a session explaining the new equity journey continuum on the state report card. There are three categories: Student Learning, Learning Conditions and Elevating Educators. Each area has specific data feeding the continuum rating. This information isn’t about the scores, it’s about the gaps in the scores between different groups.

STUDENT LEARNING	LEARNING CONDITIONS	ELEVATING EDUCATORS
KIDS	Student Suspensions	Teacher Demographics
IAR, SAT, DLM-AA	Student Expulsions	Student Demographics
ACCESS	Student Attendance	Administrator Demographics
8th Graders in Alg 1	Site-based per-pupil expense	Out-of-field teachers
8th Graders passing Alg 1	Climate survey	Teacher experience/education
On-time graduation rates		Teacher Evaluations
Advanced course enrollment

Current Continuum

H. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT 

Mr. Spencer reported:

1. There will a student teacher at the Early Childhood Center starting in January 2023. Nicole Wiltz at student at Lewis University will be completing her student teaching requirements with Pre-K teacher Hayley Villafuerte from January 2023 – May2023.

2. Monthly student enrollment figures

DATES TO REMEMBER 

December 1 – 5th & 6th Grade Band Concert @ 7:00 p.m.

December 6 – HS Choral Concert @ 7:00 p.m.

December 7 – Early Dismissal

December 9 & 10 – Madrigals @ 7:00 p.m.

December 11 – Madrigals @ 2:00 p.m.

December 13 – MS Band Concert @ 7:00 p.m.

December 15 – HS Band Concert @ 7:00 p.m.

December 20 – MS Chorus Concert @ 7:00 p.m.

December 21 – Early Dismissal

December 22 – January 4 – Winter Break - No School

December 28 – Board Study Session of the Whole @ 6:00 p.m.

January 4 – Teachers Institute – No Student Attendance

January 5 – Classes Resume – Students Return

I. GRUNDY AREA VOCATIONAL CENTER REPORT 

Mr. Lander reported:

1. Director Copes updated the Board of Control on Joliet Junior College Dual Credit program.2. Director Copes reported that the School to Apprenticeship will be offered to Junior and Seniors. 

3. Director Copes informed the Board of Control that there were record numbers for the sophomore tours on November 17.

4. Director Copes discussed the FY 24 school calendar.

5. Approved the Horton Group’s bid for Insurance and Workers Compensation renewal.

6. Approved a four-year contract extension with Mack and Associates for auditing services. 

7. Approved the contract agreement with Green and Associates for Architectural services.

J. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR REPORT 

Athletic Director Dan Hutchings reported:

Calendar of Events: 

November 19 IESA 7th Grade Girls Basketball Regional at

Shorewood Troy - Lost to Manhattan

November 28 IESA 8th Grade Girls Basketball at Ottawa

Shepherd - Lost to Shorewood Troy

November 21, 22, 25, & 26 Turkey Tournament

Varsity & Sophomore Boys Basketball

GSW, Morris, & Chicago Agricultural Science

Lady Coaler Varsity Girls won the Reed-Custer Comet Classic on November 19 going 4-0.

High School Athletics: 

Boys Basketball Numbers

8 Seniors

5 Juniors

12 Sophomores

14 Freshmen

Girls Basketball Numbers

7 Seniors

6 Juniors

5 Sophomores

9 Freshmen

Wrestling

14 Seniors

4 Juniors

6 Sophomores

21 Freshmen

Basketball/Competition Cheerleading

2 Seniors

4 Juniors

2 Sophomores

7 Freshmen

Middle School Athletics: 

Girls’ basketball seasons are in the IESA state Series.

8th Grade finished 7-16

7th Grade finished 14-5

Boys’ basketball

8th Grade: 7-4 IVC 1-1

7th Grade: 7-1 IVC 2-0

6th Grade: A team 5-3, B Team 5-3

Wrestling and Volleyball are set to begin practicing on November 28.

COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR 

1. In regard to agenda items – none.

2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – none.

OLD BUSINESS 

A. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVING THE FINAL 2022 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 2022 tentative levy was adopted at the November Board meeting. The board adopted the final 2022 Property Tax Levy. The final levy was enclosed for review.

Mr. Bianchetta moved and Mr. Hamilton seconded to adopt the 2022 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 as follows:

Educational	$22,037,857.00
Operations/Maintenance	$5,418,464.00
Transportation	$2,156,985.00
IMRF	$552,246.00
Working Cash	$500,246.00
Social Security	$773,145.00
Special Education	$441,797.00
Life Safety	$552,246.00
Tort	$448,246.00
Leasing	$552,246.00
TOTAL LEVY	$33,433,478.00

Roll Call.

Ayes: Robert Bianchetta, Shawn Hamilton, Mary Gill, Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

B. DISCUSSION ON 2023 FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT PLAN 

Representatives from Cordogan Clark were in attendance and provided the Board with an update on the 2023 Facilities Improvement Plan. The architects went through each building and presented the Board with their recommendations for improvements/additions. Mr. Spencer will reconvene with focus group, and take the Board’s feedback to that meeting, and from that meeting the architects will amend the Facilities Improvement Plan, and present that information at a future Board meeting.

NEW BUSINESS 

A. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON AGREEMENT WITH MACK & ASSOCIATES, P.C. FOR AUDITING SERVICES 

Mack and Associates, P.C. has conducted the financial audit for the district since fiscal year 2007. CSBO Jason Smith made a recommendation to extend the agreement with Mack & Associates to conduct auditing services for fiscal years ending June 30, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to approve the agreement with Mack & Associates, P.C., to perform auditing services for fiscal year 2023 at a cost of $15,250, fiscal year 2024 at a cost of $15,625 and for fiscal year 2025 at a cost of $16,020.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Quint Harmon, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

B. DISCUSSION ON 2023 – 2024 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. Superintendent Christopher Spencer discussed the draft 2023 – 2024 School Calendar. Superintendent Christopher Spencer has worked with Union leadership to receive their input on the school calendar. Mr. Spencer plans to present an amended draft for the Board to review at the January Board meeting.

C. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON MID-YEAR GRADUATION/EXCLUSION REQUESTS 

The high school guidance office received requests for mid-year graduation. 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 must complete their requirements through correspondence courses by May 1, 2023.

Mr. Lander moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the following mid-year graduates, student numbers: 2023154, 2023124, 2023344, 2020892, 2023041 and 2023049.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Chuck Lander, Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

D. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON ACCEPTANCE OF THE DONATION FROM MORRIS HOSPITAL 

Morris Hospital offered athletic physicals at the high school on June 16. Their providers completed approximately 46 physicals, and Morris Hospital has donated $920.00 back to the district for the athletics program.

Mr. Bianchetta moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the donation of $920.00 from Morris Hospital for the athletics programs.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Robert Bianchetta, Quint Harmon, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

E. FIRST READING ON REVISED DISTRICT POLICIES

The following District Policies have been revised and were submitted for review for the first reading.

2:20	Powers and Duties of the School Board; Indemnification
2:30	School District Elections
2:50	Board Member Term of Office
2:100	Board Member Conflict of Interest
2:105	Ethics and Gift Ban
2:210	Organizational School Board Meeting
2:250	Access to District Public Records
2:250-AP1	Access to and Copying of District Public Records
2:250-E2	Immediately Available District Public Records and Web-Posted Reports and Records
2:265	Title IX Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedure
2:265-E	Title IX Sexual Harassment Glossary of Terms
3:10	Goals and Objectives
3:50	Administrative Personnel Other Than the Superintendent
3:60	Administrative Responsibility of the Building Principal
3:60-E	Event Reporting and Notice Requirements for Building Principals Concerning School Safety and Security
4:10	Fiscal and Business Management
4:60-AP1	Purchases
4:120	Food Services
4:140	Waiver of Student Fees
4:140-AP	Fines, Fees, and Charges – Waiver of Student Fees
4:140-E1	Application for Fee Waiver
4:140-E2	Application for Fee Waiver Based on Federal Free Meals Program
4:140-E3	Response to Application for Fee Waiver, Appeal, and Response to Appeal
4:140-E4	Resolution to Increase Driver Education Fees
4:165	Awareness and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Grooming Behaviors
4:170-AP1	Comprehensive Safety and Security Plan
4:190	Targeted School Violence Prevention Program
4:190-AP1	Targeted School Violence Prevention Program
4:190-AP2	Threat Assessment Team
5:10	Equal Employment Opportunity and Minority Recruitment
5:20	Workplace Harassment Prohibited
5:120	Employee Ethics; Code of Professional Conduct; and Conflict of Interest
5:120-AP1	Statement of Economic Interests for Employees
5:120-AP2	Employee Conduct Standards
5:120-AP2, E	Expectations and Guidelines for Employee-Student Boundaries
5:190	Teacher Qualifications
5:200	Terms and Conditions of Employment and Dismissal
5:220	Substitute Teachers
5:250	Leaves of Absence
5:270	Employment At-Will, Compensation, and Assignment
5:280	Duties and Qualifications
5:290	Employment Termination and Suspensions
5:320	Evaluation

5:330	Sick Days, Vacation, Holidays, and Leaves
6:15	School Accountability
6:20	School Year Calendar and Day
6:20-AP	Remote and/or Blended Remote Learning Day Plan(s)
6:50	School Wellness
6:60	Curriculum Content
6:60-AP1	Comprehensive Health Education Program
6:65	Student Social and Emotional Development
6:160	English Learners
6:220	Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT) Program; Responsible Use and Conduct
6:250	Community Resource Persons and Volunteers
6:255	Assemblies and Ceremonies
6:260	Complaints About Curriculum, Instructional Materials, and Programs
6:260-AP	Responding to Complaints About Curriculum, Instructional Materials, and Programs
6:260-AP, E	Curriculum Objection Form
6:270	Guidance and Counseling Program
6:280	Grading and Promotion
6:300	Graduation Requirements
6:300-E2	State Law Graduation Requirements
6:300-E3	Form for Exemption from Financial Aid Application Completion
6:130	High School Credit for Non-District Experiences; Course Substitutions; Re Entering Students
6:340	Student Testing and Assessment Program
7:10	Equal Educational Opportunities
7:20	Harassment of Student Prohibited
7:50	School Admissions and Student Transfers To and From Non-District Schools
7:70	Attendance and Truancy
7:100	Health, Eye, and Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students
7:180	Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation, and Harassment
7:190	Student Behavior
7:190-AP3	Guidelines for Reciprocal Reporting of Criminal Offenses Committed by Students
7:190-AP4	Use of Isolated Time Out, Time Out, and Physical Restraint
7:190-E2	Student Handbook Checklist
7:190-E3	Memorandum of Understanding
7:250	Student Support Services
7:250-AP2	Protocol for Responding to Students with Social, Emotional, or Mental Health Needs
7:285	Anaphylaxis Prevention, Response, and Management Program
7:285-AP	Anaphylaxis Prevention, Response, and Management Program
7:285AP, E	Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan
7:290	Suicide and Depression Awareness and Prevention
7:290-AP	Resource Guide for Implementation for Suicide and Depression Awareness and Prevention Program
7:340	Student Records
7:340-AP1	School Student Records
7:340-AP1, E4	Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Military Recruiter Access to Students and

	Student Information
7:340-AP2	Storage and Destruction of School Student Records
7:340-AP2, E1	Letter Containing Schedule for Destruction of School Student Records
8:30-AP	Definition of Child Sex Offender
8:95-AP	Parental Involvement

F. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE GRUNDY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERSHIP 

The district 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. The Board approved renewing this membership.

Mr. Lander moved and Mr. Rogers seconded to approve payment of the annual membership fee of $265 to the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

G. DISCUSSION ON POSSIBLE MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCCER TEAM 

Superintendent Christopher Spencer discussed the request to add a middle school soccer team. Mr. Spencer discussed conducting a parental survey to determine the interest level in a middle school soccer team, and he will convene with the Athletic Board Committee and will provide the Board with an update at a future Board meeting.

H. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVAL OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH THREE RIVERS EDUCATION FOR EMPLOYMENT SYSTEM 

Superintendent Christopher Spencer recommended the approval of an intergovernmental agreement with Three Rivers Education for Employment System, also known as TREES. TREES provide students, youth and adults with quality programs, services and the opportunity to obtain immediate employment and/or to attain advanced education or training needed for later employment. The Board approved the Resolution.

Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to approve the Intergovernmental Agreement Resolution between Three Rivers Education for Employment System and Coal City Community Unit School District #1 as presented, and to waive the reading of the resolution.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

I. DISCUSSION ON TAX OBJECTIONS

Superintendent Christopher Spencer discussed the status of three tax objections in excess of $100,000. Mr. Spencer discussed the Board’s past practice when it comes to tax objections that in excess of $100,000.

J. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON THE EDLIO MOBILE APP PROPOSAL 

The administration recommended adding the Edlio Mobile Access App to enhance district communication amongst parents and staff. The app is free until July 2023, the subsequent renewal is $6,750 that includes a 10% discount, and the setup cost of $1,500 was waived. The Director of Curriculum and Instruction Tammy Elledge worked with the Leadership Learning Team to streamline communication with school district parents, and the Edlio Mobile Access App will accomplish that.

Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Lander seconded to approve the Edlio Mobile Access App proposal as presented.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Chuck Lander, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

K. DISCUSSION ON ADDING A SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST 

Superintendent Christopher Spencer discussed the possible addition of a Speech Language Pathologist due to the increased number of students needing speech language support. Director of Special Populations Luke Krippel provided the Board with comparable data from surrounding districts. He also discussed the current caseloads of the current Speech Pathologist within the district.

L. DISCUSSON/ACTION ON RENEWAL AGREEMENT WITH RAVE MOBILE (SWIFTREACH K-12) 

CSBO Jason Smith made a recommendation for a three (3) year renewal agreement with Rave Mobile (SwiftReach) at a cost of $3,062.34 each year from August 1, 2023 through July 31, 2026. This three (3) year renewal agreement is for the price of two (2) years, which is a significant cost savings for the district.

Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Hamilton seconded to approve the three (3) year renewal agreement with Rave Mobile at a cost of $3,062.34 annually.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Quint Harmon, Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

M. DISCUSSION ON BULK ELECTRICITY AGREEMENT

CSBO Jason Smith discussed an agreement made with Nextera for bulk electricity. Between Board cycles the district had the opportunity to lock in pricing for electricity for a thirty-six (36) month term at a price nearly 36% lower than market price. Mr. Smith spoke with members of the finance committee and moved forward with the agreement. The Board thanked Mr. Smith for his efforts in this matter.

N. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVAL FOR LEASE AGREEMENT OF WHITE ACTIVITY BUS 

CSBO Jason Smith discussed a five (5) lease to own agreement for a 15-passenger white activity bus from Central States. Leasing with American Capital with annual payments of $22,173.69. Mr. Smith was able to secure a white activity bus for the district that fit within the financial limits of the district without having to amend the budget.

Mr. Lander moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to approve the five (5) year lease agreement for a White Activity Bus as presented.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Chuck Lander, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

O. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVING THE ANONYMOUS DONATION TO THE THEATRE DEPARTMENT 

Superintendent Christopher Spencer discussed the anonymous donation to the theatre department in the amount of $3,000.00 through the ticketing agency for Newsies Musical. The money from this donation will go to enhancing the theatre department for the students.

Mr. Harmon and Mrs. Gill seconded to approve the anonymous donation to the theatre department in the amount of $3,000.00.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Quint Harmon, Mary Gill, Robert Bianchetta, Shawn Hamilton, Chuck Lander, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

P. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON MOBILE DEVICE MANAGEMENT SERVICE 

CSBO Jason Smith discussed adding a mobile device management service that will manage cyber liability and meet insurance requirements. This is a sixty (60) month contract. Having this service will allow the district to be in compliance as it relates to cyber liability.

Mr. Lander moved and Mr. Hamilton seconded to approve the proposal from Jampf as presented.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Chuck Lander, Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Quint Harmon, 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.) – none.

CLOSED SESSION 

Mr. Lander moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to go to closed session at 7:40 p.m. for the purpose of considering information regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, and student discipline.

Roll Call.

Ayes: Chuck Lander, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

When the Board returned to open session, President Miller called the regular meeting to order at 8:23 p.m. with the board members answering roll call present: Chuck Lander, Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, and Ken Miller.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Chuck Lander, Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Mary Gill, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:

Motion: Carried.

BOARD STUDY SESSION OF THE WHOLE DATE: CANCELLED DECEMBER 28, 2022 @ 6  P.M. 

In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom 

NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: JANUARY 4, 2023 @ 6 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom 

ADJOURNMENT 

Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Lander seconded to adjourn the meeting at 8:23 p.m. President Miller asked if there was any opposition to the motion, hearing none considers the motion approved.

https://4.files.edl.io/e1d4/01/05/23/203935-f78f0944-fae9-4fc8-8bdd-3ccd0c6c34bb.pdf