Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education met Feb. 1.
Here are the minutes provided by the board:
CALL TO ORDER
President Miller called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. with the board members answering roll call present: Robert Bianchetta, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, and Shawn Hamilton. 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 Secretary Mary Gill, and Board Member Chuck Lander were absent. Board Member Steve Rogers attended via conference call.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Miller led the Board of Education and others present in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Introduction/acknowledgement of guests.
Commander Jim Phillips, members of the VFW Post 1336, and middle school teacher Jim Hitchcock, were in attendance and recognized this year’s Patriot Pen Essay Award recipients. This year’s recipients were: Ryland Clements, Leah Jensen, Emerson Koehn, Jaiden Leman, Jacob Munsterman, Abi Rose, Faith Horkavy, James Little, Grace Sitar, Kayla Kowalski, Cate Rush, Kory Lovell, Lilly Gerrish, Kyla Stark, and Jayla Reed.
2. The Board of Education recognized Theatre Director Jack Micetich, and high school students Derek Carlson, Mason Natyshok, Stephen Byers, and Kayla Connelly for their participation in the Illinois All-State Musical production of Shrek.
3. Thank you
A thank you letter was received from Ryan Lambert, Executive Director of the Illinois High School Theatre Festival, thanking the Board of Education their support of the theatre program, and Mr. Micetich for his meticulous work on the costumes.
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 as listed:
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the consent agenda.
MINUTES January 4, 2023 - Regular Meeting
January 25, 2023 - Board Study Session
CLOSED SESSION MINUTES
January 4, 2023 - Regular Meeting
January 25, 2023 - Board Study Session
FINANCIAL REPORTS
Activity Fund Reports – December 2022
Treasurer’s Report – December 2022
Monthly Manual Check Report – January 2023
Payroll Report – January 2023
Accounts Payable Report – February 2023
PERSONNEL
Employments - pending satisfactory completion of all state requirements
• Ashley Reszel – 1:1 Special Ed Aide at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Reszel’s anticipated start date is January 24, 2023
• Emma Brumfield – full-time Custodian at the Middle School – Ms. Brumfield’s anticipated start date is January 23, 2023. Ms. Brumfield is replacing Trisha Bell.
Extra-Curricular Assignments
Athletic Director Dan Hutchings is recommending Lonnie Henline as a Volunteer Varsity High School Softball Coach.
Moving Closed Session Minutes to Open Session
Twice each year, the district must review the closed session minutes and open those minutes to the public, which no longer contain information that needs to be kept closed. Attorney Wharrie reviewed the closed session minutes and prepared the enclosed list of those minutes, which could be made open to the public. School Board President Miller also reviewed the minutes and recommends the following to be open to the public:
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Absent:
Motion: Carried.
ADMINISTRATORS' REPORTS
A. EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER REPORT
Principal Davidson Reported:
Calendar of Events:
January 27th - 100th Day of School
February 1st - Early Dismissal
February 2nd - BLT Meetings
February 2nd - Specials Team Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 6th - Support Staff Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 7th - A Team Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 8th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 9th - Early Dismissal
February 9th - Parent/Teacher Conferences 4:00pm-8:00pm
February 10th - NFL Day
February 13th - February 17th - Kindness Week at the ECC
February 13th - TALC Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 14th - CPI Team Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 15th - Staff Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 15th - Family Wellness Night @ 6:00pm-8:00pm
February 16th - LLT @ 8:00am-11:00am
February 16th - PBS Team Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 20th - NO SCHOOL
February 21st - End of Trimester Two
February 21st - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 22nd - PreK Team Meeting @ 10:45am
February 22nd - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55pm
February 23rd - A Team Meeting @ 2:55pm
Current Enrollment:
PreK: 186
Kindergarten: 127
1st Grade: 148
Total: 461 (in PowerSchool as of January 24th, 2023)
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
• Monthly Phone check for Lockdown - December 14th
• Monthly AED Device Check - December 20th
• Monthly Panic Button check - December 21st
• Monthly AED Device Check - January 4th
• Monthly Phone Check for Lockdown - January 17th
• Monthly Panic Button Check - January 25th
Month-in-Review:
• Students returned to the ECC on Thursday, January 5th from Winter Break. We are back in the swing of the school year and are excited to be celebrating the 100th Day of School on Friday, January 27th. On the 100th Day of School, the staff will be making 100 positive contacts home and the students will be working on making a list of 100 Things that Make Me Smile! Students and staff will be “dressing like they are 100” and celebrating everything that has to do with the number 100!
• January 17th-27th is our Winter Benchmarking for AIMSweb for our Kindergarten and 1st grade students. The data will be reviewed on February 2nd at our BLT meeting including teachers, school psychologist, and reading specialist. At this time, we will make changes to current intervention groups and make decisions on how to best support all students.
• We have many new faces at the ECC this semester as well. Nicole Wiltz is a student teacher in Mrs. Villafuerte’s PreK classroom. Ashley Reszel is a new 1:1 aide for a Kindergarten student. Alaina Sawyer is a graduate student from St. Xavier University and she will be working with Cassie Spicer. Alexandria Leonardo is also a graduate student from St. Xavier University and she will be working with Margaret Marsaglia. Cristal Cabrol is a 1:1 aide for a PreK student and Jacklyn Cvitanovich is a new classroom aide in a PreK classroom. It is exciting to have new people working with our growing population!
Recognition:
• Congratulations to Kailee Walgren and her husband, Ryan. She gave birth to her daughter, Olympia Ann Walgren on January 9th, 2023! Kailee will be home with her baby for the rest of the school year and Lindsey Mettille is her maternity sub here at the ECC!
• Thank you to Sarah Quigley! She is working on planning a Kindness Week at the ECC for something fun upcoming in February. Students will enjoy a dress up theme each day and will be given the task of completely an act of kindness throughout each day.
• Mr. Schoonover is working on bringing his varsity basketball team to the ECC to read with the students in the month of February and we are excited for this! Thank you to Mr. Schoonover and the varsity boys’ basketball team for planning this and taking time to come and visit our youngest Coalers!
B. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Trotter reported:
Calendar of Events:
February 1st: Early Dismissal
February 5th: Fine Arts Festival
February 7th: BLT Meeting
February 9th: Early Dismissal / Parent-Teacher Conferences
February 14th: Valentine’s Day Parties
February 20th: No School - Presidents’ Day
February 21st: End of the 2nd Trimester
ES Enrollment:
2nd Grade: 147 students
3rd Grade: 139 students
Total: 286 (enrolled as of 1/26/2023)
CCES Happenings and Recognitions:
● We are finishing up our winter benchmarking which will allow us to offer more support to students that may need it.
● The students honored Martin Luther King by learning about his legacy. The teachers also had their students share their dreams on paper and displayed them in the hallway.
● The students and staff celebrated the 100th Day of School by sharing 100 memories from this year so far and dressing up like they are 100 years old. It’s always a fun day at the Elementary School.
● One of our night custodians, Tim Larson, is off work on extended medical leave while he recovers from surgery. We are sending Tim positive thoughts for a speedy recovery.
C. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Carlson reported:
Calendar of Events:
2/1 – 11:35 Dismissal & 1:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. PD
2/2 – Support Staff Meeting with Aides 3:00 p.m.
2/5 – Fine Arts Festival at CCHS 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
2/6 – SAP Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/7 – PBS Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/8 – BLT Meeting 12:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
2/9 – 11:35 a.m. Dismissal
2/9 – Specials Team Meeting 1:30 p.m.
2/9 – Parent/Teacher Conferences 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
2/13 – A Team Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/14 – Valentine’s Day Parties
2/14 – TALC Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/15 – 4th/5th Grade Team Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/15 – Family Wellness Night at CCHS 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
2/16 – Custodians Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/17 – Storm Drill 11:00 a.m.
2/18 – Presidents’ Day ~ No School
2/19 – End of Trimester 2
2/19 – PBS Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/22 – CCIS Girls Dance 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
2/23 – CPI Team Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/23 – CCIS Boys Dance 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
2/27 – SpEd Team Meeting 3:00 p.m.
2/28 – TALC Meeting 3:00 p.m.
Current Enrollment:
4th Grade 136
5th Grade 157
Total 293 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; 1/13/23
Lockdown 8/19/22; 9/20/22
Bus Evacuation 9/6/22
Month in Review:
• We practiced a Shelter-in-Place/Storm Drill in the afternoon on 1/13.
• Students took the Winter AIMSweb Benchmark Assessments during 1/17-1/27. The results of these tests help up determine our intervention groups, daily groups for centers, and they are also one data point used to determine next year’s placement in our TAG (Talented and Gifted) Program.
• It was National Popcorn Day on January 19th, so the CCIS staff was treated to a variety of popcorn.
• The Coaler Varsity Basketball players came to CCIS on 1/20 to greet the students as they arrived at school.
• We hosted Family BINGO at CCIS on Sunday, 1/22 from 1:00-4:00 and the first hour and a half was packed! We had over 200 people attend, and it was so much fun. We made a profit of $846.53 which will be used to pay for future CCIS events…Muffins with Me and Donuts with Grownups.
• We currently have 20 students in ASAP (After School Assistance Program); ten 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.
• We had the following spirit days this month: Favorite/Silly Hat Day; Fuzzy Fleece Day; Flannel Day; Coaler Spirit Day; 100-Year-Old Day.
Student Recognition:
• Congratulations to following Students of the Week:
Week of 1/9: Lily Connor Mikos, Brayden Brncich, Tristan Brncich, Kaitlyn Adams
Week of 1/17: Melody Leman and Brent Stark
Week of 1/23: Rylan Davy, Sienna Ruffato, Liam Cheney and Aubrie Kavanaugh
• Congratulations to our new Student Council representatives.
Staff Recognition:
• I want to thank Mrs. Tricia Hall for helping at CCIS BINGO.
• I want to recognize the following staff members who received the weekly CCIS Kudos: o Mrs. Bajt for organizing the staff’s Secret Santa
o Miss O’Donnell for being amazing to work with and so supportive
o Mrs. Hall for helping with CCIS BINGO and taking pictures
D. MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Johnson reported:
Calendar of Events:
January 27 - HopeWins Opioid Presentation to 8th Graders at CCHS
February 1 - 12:00 p.m. EARLY DISMISSAL
Staff Development Day
Board of Education Meeting –6:00 p.m. – Unit Office
February 5 - Fine Arts Festival - CCHS - 1:00 p.m.
February 9 - 12:00pm EARLY DISMISSAL
Parent Teacher Conferences – 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
February 13 - CCMS Spelling Bee – 3:30 p.m. – CCMS Library
February 15 - Winter Sports/Organization Picture Day
February 20 - NO SCHOOL – President’s Day
CCMS Attendance
6th Grade 164
7th Grade 165
8th Grade 165
Total 494
Month in Review:
• CCMS staff returned to school on January 4 for Teacher’s Institute. Staff attended different staff development opportunities at Coal City High.
• CCMS students returned to school on January 5. Students began their 3rd quarter encore on their return to school. We have gotten off to a good start to the spring semester.
• The CCMS Wrestling Warriors opened the 2022 year with hosting the Warrior Invite on January 7. The Warriors had a great day and claimed the team championship and also crowned 5 individual champions at the Invite.
• CCMS students and staff observed Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday on January 16.
• CCMS students participated in the winter benchmarking for Aimsweb from January 17-20. Students were assessed in the areas of reading and math.
• The state mandated 5Essentials Survey opened on January 24 for CCMS staff members, students and parents to participate in completing. We are planning on having students take the survey during the first two weeks of February. The survey will remain open to these groups through March 31.
• CCMS held Pack the Place Night for our Wrestling and Volleyball teams. Wrestling held their night on January 18 and Volleyball held their night on January 25. We had great crowds for each of the events and students were able to Chuck a Duck and enter various raffles to earn prizes at Pack the Place. Special thanks to Rodney Monbrum for planning and organizing these events for our teams and students.
E. HIGH SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Kenney reported:
Calendar of Events:
February 1 – Early Dismissal
February 5 – Fine Arts Festival at CCHS
February 9 – Early Dismissal/Parent Teacher Conferences
February 15 – Family Wellness Night
February 20 – No School
February 22 – Yearbook Pictures
February 22 – Certificate of Employability Meeting
Month in Review:
• January marked the start of the 2nd semester at CCHS! New classes and new teachers meant an exciting start of the semester. We look forward to a great semester with the Coalers!
• Coaler winter sports, Scholastic Bowl, and Speech are well underway! Teams are doing amazing and we have already earned numerous medals in various speech categories. We are proud of our students for remaining engaged and active outside of the classroom.
• STUCO held an all-school competition during CCT in January. They had CCTs competing against each other playing the Floor is Lava. Students had a great time and many laughs as they tried to get across the gym without touching the “lava”!
• FBLA competed in Central Northern Area Conference. Coalers brough home 6 first place medals, 2 second place medals, and 3 third place medals. Brady Ehman and Luke Crater represented CCHS in the “Battle of the Chapters” against Lemont, Lincoln Way East, Lincoln Way West, Chicago Sullivan, and IMSA. They won the event and will represent the Central Northern Area in the “Battle of the Chapters” at the State Leadership Conference on April 14-15 in Springfield.
• On January 27th, we welcomed Patti Clousing from Hope Wins 7. Her son died at the age of 19 from a heroin overdose. She shared her story with our students, along with a very powerful message that hope wins. We appreciate her talking to our students and bringing items that will help them to remember her message.
• 2023-2024 class registration is underway! Mr. Kiper and Mrs. Dransfeldt are busy meeting with each class and presenting their options. They will be meeting individually with each student to help with their class choices. CCHS schedule building will start soon!
Enrollment as of 1/27/23
Freshman 183
Sophomores 146
Juniors 139
Seniors 154
Total: 622 – Decrease of 11 (this includes early graduates)
Discipline as of 10/27/22
Class Cut 2
Insubordination 1
Inappropriate Physical Contact 2
Cell Phone Infractions 0
Fighting 2
Vaping 1
Safety Violation 0
Inappropriate Language 0
Theft/Damage to Property 0
Other Infractions 0
Total: 8
F. SPECIAL POPULATIONS REPORT
Director Krippel reported:
District Leadership Team (DLT):
Our District Leadership Team (DLT) met on January 18th at the District office. DLT consists of principals, school psychologists, reading specialists, and department leaders from Math, ELA and Health and Wellness. The following topics were discussed in depth:
1. Cealy Depersia presented to the team regarding our current social emotional curriculum along with plans to expand this to the high school in the future. Using the middle school as an example, the social emotional interventions put in place are having a positive impact. This is evidenced by fewer risk assessments and threat assessments completed by student services this year compared to the previous year.
2. Katie Ludes, Kristen Strunga, and Schmitz presented to the team regarding new best practices for teaching reading based on the Science of Reading. The district currently has a cohort that is being trained on these new practices. The hope is that some will become certified trainers in order to train all teachers as soon as possible.
3. Abby Dimitrijevic and Sarah Veronda collected and shared the district’s current data related to Math and Reading including the number of students in each tier of intervention. The data shows that our interventions are currently having a positive impact as less students require intense interventions throughout the school year. The team also discussed our current interventions for math and reading and investigated ways to intervene with a bigger impact.
4. Best practices were reviewed regarding how we identify students, staff, time blocks and interventions throughout the Building Leadership Teams (BLT). The need for more formalized progress monitoring was identified as fidelity checks are required to ensure the interventions are utilized properly. Student Assistance Programs (SAP) were also discussed and problem solved to ensure students in need are identified and intervened as soon as possible.
Based on these presentations and discussions, the DLT agreed to the following goals moving forward:
Social Emotional Learning
1. Continue to stress the importance of SEL by making it a part of the schedule at each building (Second Step).
2. Using the MS as an example, implement SEL curriculum/CASEL model at other buildings, especially the HS.
Science of Reading
1. Continue to spread the message of the importance of the Science of Reading in order to implement more explicit instruction at all grade levels.
2. Investigate additional professional development opportunities regarding the Science of Reading including the possibility of adding certified trainers to our district.
Data Analysis and Intervention
1. Continue to intervene using the district's current interventions.
2. Investigate further ways to intervene using the Science of Reading and instructional coaching. 3. Schedule SPIRE training sessions for staff members to better navigate and utilize the program.
Ensure Best Practices
1. Reconvene some team members to investigate ways to implement fidelity checks for interventions.
2. Analyze each building's SAP process to ensure teacher involvement, 3 tiers of interventions with goal creation and monitoring. Investigate the possibility of using PowerSchool to enter and track data.
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU):
Coal City CUSD #1 was recently provided the opportunity to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with “Childcare Resource and Referral” which is located in Joliet but serves Will, Grundy, Kendall and Kankakee counties. This program provided resources to low-income families with young children such as daycare, diapers, education and advocacy. By entering into this MOU, our district and this agency agree to work together to provide the necessary resources for our children and their families.
MOU Childcare and Referral .pdf
Special Populations Data:
| Coal City Schools IEP Data | |||||
| ECC ES IS MS HS District | |||||
| 152 | 49 | 45 | 47 | 70 | 363 |
| +6 Since
January 1st | -1 Since
January 1st | -1 Since
January 1st | +4 Since
January 1st | ||
| Coal City Schools 504 Data | |||||
| ECC ES IS MS HS Total | |||||
| 3 | 8 | 9 | 32 | 50 | 102 |
| +1 Since
January 1st | -3 Since
January 1st | -2 Since
January 1st | |||
| Coaler Academy Data | |||||
| Pending
Full Time Hybrid Homebound Intervention Total Students Referrals | |||||
| 4 | 16 | 2 | 0 | 22 | 0 |
| Out of District Placements | ||||
| Elim Morris HS (ELL) Oswego SD308 High Road Total Students | ||||
| 1 | 2 | 1 | 7 | 11 |
2022 – 2023
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| Miscellaneous Student Data | |
| ELL Homeless | |
| 21 | 10 |
| Preschool for All Grant (PFA) | |
| Current Students Open Spots | |
| 60 | 0 |
| Overall Preschool Numbers | |||
| Current Students IEP Openings At-Risk Openings Waitlist | |||
| 194/210 | 8 | 6 | 2 |
Vacancies:
.5 Paraprofessional - Coal City Early Childhood Center
Full-Time Speech Pathologist - Coal City Early Childhood Center
G. CURRICULUM REPORT
Director Elledge reported:
Professional Development:
Professional learning strands for the spring semester have been organized. Teachers and administrators started the first strands today and will continue on March 1st and April 26th. The early dismissal in May will be dedicated to department/grade level work. The descriptions of the learning strands are available on our website under the staff drop down menu.
Website/Communication:
Our new district App has been approved by the Apps stores and will soon be ready for public deployment. The App development was in response to feedback from stakeholders on LLT. Parents would like one place to find information (and receive information).
Mentoring/New Staff:
Jennifer Kenney, Chris Spencer and I met with the mentors on January 18th. They offered suggestions for improving the program as we strive to meet the needs of our new staff members. I have also started visiting each classroom of our new staff members to offer encouragement and support.
Department News:
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Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 1, 2023
The math department continues to review materials for all grade levels. They will be purchasing new materials for FY24.
H. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Mr. Spencer reported:
1. Jake Keating a student at Grand Canyon University will completing his student teaching with Dave Sinkular and Ben Baer at the high school for the second semester.
2. Bethany Nicole, a student at University of St. Francis, will be completing her 30 hours of practicum with Lori Hamilton this semester.
3. Alaina Sawyer a grad student at St. Xavier University, will be completing her internship with Cassie Spicer at the Early Childhood Center from January 23, 2023 through April 24, 2023. 4. Alexandria Leonardo a grad student at St. Xavier University, will be completing her internship with Margaret Marsaglia at the Early Childhood Center from January 23, 2023 through April 24, 2023.
5. A FOIA request was received from the Illinois Retired Teachers Association requesting the name/email address of any certified staff retiring this school year.
6. Monthly student enrollment figures were available for review
DATES TO REMEMBER
February 5 – Fine Arts Festival @ CCHS 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
February 9 – Early Dismissal – 6 – 12 Parent Teacher Conferences 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. February 15 - MS Winter Sports/Organizational Pictures
February 20 – No School - President’s Day
February 21 – K – 5 end Trimester 2
February 22 – HS Yearbook Pictures
February 22 – Board Study Session of the Whole Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.
March 1 – Early Dismissal
March 1 – Board Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.
I. GRUNDY AREA VOCATIONAL CENTER REPORT
Mr. Lander reported:
1. Director Copes updated the Board of Control on project house 26.
2. Director Copes discussed the FY 24 school calendar
3. Director Copes updated the Board on the Summer Internship program.
4. Director Copes updated the Board on the process to replace the Director of Maintenance position.
5. Director Copes updated the Board on the updating and purchasing of new equipment in the automotive shop.
6. Approved the FY 23 GAVC seniority list
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Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 1, 2023
7. Approved the contract for architectural services with Green and Associates for architectural services for a Facility Assessment and Master Plan
8. Approved the three-year agreement for the Technology Coordinator position.
J. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR REPORT
Athletic Director Dan Hutchings reported:
Senior Nights
January 26, 2023 - Wrestling - 14 seniors
January 27, 2023 - Cheerleaders - 2 Seniors
February 3, 2023 - Boys Basketball - 8 Senior Basketball Players
February 8, 2023 - Girls Basketball - 7 Seniors
High School
Wrestling – 38 - 2 record
● Downers Grove South Dual Team Tournament - 3rd Place
● ICE Conference Meet January 21 at Wilmington (Champions)
● Wrestlers were the ICE Dual Team Champs
● ABE’S Rumble Champions
● Princeton Tournament Champions
IHSA Wrestling Regional February 4. 2023 at Reed-Custer
Boys Basketball:
Varsity Boys Basketball: 9-12 overall record
Freshman Boys - Conference record of 7-3 and 8-5 overall
Varsity Girls Basketball:
IHSA Girls Basketball Sectionals February 21 & 23 - hosted by Coal City HS
IHSA Boys Basketball Regional February 18 - 24
Spring Sports can begin Practicing February 27, 2023
Middle School:
11 - 0 overall record
Wrestlers - Homer Tournament Champs
Warrior Invite Champs
Panther Invite Champs
The 8th grade basketball team just finished up their last regular season game in a double header Victory over Limestone. The team is currently 14-9 finishing 2nd place in the ICS Tournament and 3rd place in the IVC Tournament. A Huge accomplishment for this team was beating Bourbonnais
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on their floor with a last second shot. We are excited to enter a tough regional at the 4 seed and will play Saturday January 28 vs Streator Northlawn at 10 a.m. @ Ottawa. This is a very big team that will have an immediate positive impact on the High School Program next year. We wish these 8th graders the best of luck in high school.
7th grade Coal City Warriors Boys Basketball
Overall Record 13-6
Conference Record 6-1
IVC conference tournament champions
They overcame a close game against Reed Custer to take the title, winning 28 - 26. They received the 4 seed in the IESA 4A regional and were defeated by Plano. Some of their big wins this season came over Reed Custer, Morris Saratoga, Bourbonnais UGC, Manhattan, & Peotone. 8th Grade Basketball will be participating in the IESA Regional at Ottawa Shepherd on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. vs. Streator Northlawn
Volleyball
8th grade: 0-7 record
7th grade: 3-4 record
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
1. In regard to agenda items – none.
2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – none.
OLD BUSINESS
A. FINAL READING ON REVISED DISTRICT POLICIES
The first reading took place at the December 7 Board meeting, the second reading at the January 4 Board meeting, and the third and final reading took place at the January 25 Board Study Session of the Whole meeting. The School Board Policy Committee met to review and discuss the policy revisions, and their recommendation was for the Board to approve the revised district polices as listed.
| 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 |
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
B. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON BID AUTHORIZATION FOR SUMMER PROJECTS
At the January 25 Board Study Session Meeting Superintendent Christopher Spencer reviewed the amended recommendations for the FY23 Facilities Improvement Project. The asphalt project includes resurfacing and possible new areas at the Early Childhood Center, Middle School, and High School campuses; all were identified as areas of improvement to be completed this summer. The Board approved the administrator’s request to go out to bid for the asphalt projects.
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to authorize administration to request bids for summer 2023 asphalt projects, as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nay:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
C. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON BID AUTHORIZATION FOR WEIGHT ROOM/FITNESS ROOM IMPROVEMENTS
At the January 25 Board Study Session Meeting Superintendent Christopher Spencer reviewed the amended recommendations for the FY23 Facilities Improvement Project. The weight room and fitness room at the High School campus were identified as areas of improvement to be completed this summer. The Board approved the administrator’s request to go out to bid for the weight room and fitness room improvements.
Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Hamilton seconded to authorize administration to request bids for the 2023 summer improvement project of the weight room and fitness room, as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
D. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON POSSIBLE APPROVAL OF A NEW MIDDLE SCHOOL MASCOT
At the January 25 Board Study Session of the Whole Meeting, Assistant Athletic Director/Dean Brad Boresi was in attendance and discussed the possible change of the middle school mascot. This would take the Middle School from the Warriors to Coal City Coalers. This change would unify the district under one mascot.
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve changing the middle school mascot from the Warriors to the Coal City Coalers.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
E. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON POSSIBLE MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCCER TEAM
At the January 25 Board Study Session of the Whole Meeting, Athletic Director Dan Hutchings was in attendance and spoke about the possible addition of a middle school soccer team. Superintendent Christopher Spencer discussed the administration’s recommendation to adding a soccer team at the
middle school level. The Board approved adding a middle soccer program, and at this time this program will not be a part of the IESA. Board Vice President spoke with a representative of Village of Coal City and they indicated that games could be play at North Park off of Broadway Street. The athletic director and assistant athletic director will work with the middle school principal to start the implementation of the soccer program.
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to approve the administration’s recommendation for adding a middle school co-ed soccer program at no cost to the Board for the 2023 – 2024 school year.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
F. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON THE GE HITACHI PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT
Superintendent Christopher Spencer provided the Board with an update on the status of the property tax assessment of the GE Hitachi facility. The Grundy County Board of Review did not change the property tax assessment of the GE Hitachi facility. The Board was very disappointed in the Board of Review’s decision to not increase GE Hitachi’s property tax. At the March Board Meeting the Board will take action to file an appeal with the Property Tax Assessment Board.
G. DISCUSSION ON THE EDLIO MOBILE APP
At the December 7 Board meeting, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Tammy Elledge discussed the Edlio Mobile Access App. This mobile app will enhance the district’s communication with staff and parents in the community. Mrs. Elledge provided the Board of Education with a demonstration of the app’s ability. This will one place for parents to receive and obtain information from. Parents will also have the ability to set up what building they would like to receive information from. The app is pending approval of the app store, and once that approval happens, the district will be able to roll it out for parents to download.
NEW BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON THE APPROVAL THE RENEWAL OF THE GEDC ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP
The district received a request from Grundy Economic Development Council to renew the annual membership. District #1 has been a long-time member of this organization.
Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to approve payment of the annual membership fee of $300 to the Grundy Economic Development Council.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
B. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVAL OF THE QUARTERLY DROPOUT REPORT
The Quarterly Dropout Report for the quarter ending December 21, 2022 was prepared and ready for Board approval. The approval of the Dropout Report is a State requirement, which ensures that the School Board is informed of students leaving the school system.
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to approve the filing of the Quarterly Dropout Report with the Regional Office of Education for the quarter ending December 21, 2022.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Robert Bianchetta, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
C. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON THE SCHOOL SITE DONATION FROM THE VILLAGE OF COAL CITY
A School Site Donation in the amount of $6,166.00 was received from Grundy County. A resolution was prepared for acceptance of the school site donation.
Mr. Bianchetta moved and Mr. Hamilton seconded to approve the resolution to accept the School Site Donation of $6,166.00 from the Village of Coal City, and to waive the reading of the resolution.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Robert Bianchetta, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller.
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
OPEN FOR ITEMS NOT KNOWN AT AGENDA PREPARATION TIM
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
1. In regard to agenda items – none.
2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – none.
CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to go to closed session at 6:59 p.m. for the purpose of considering information regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, dismissal of specific employees, and to consider the purchase or lease of real property for the use of the public body, including discussing whether a particular parcel should be acquired, 5 ILCS 120/(c)(5).
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Bianchetta seconded to return to open session at 7:21 p.m.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
ACTION AS A RESULT OF CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the administration’s recommendation to terminate Trisha Bell.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Robert Bianchetta, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
Mr. Bianchetta moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the administration’s recommendation to hire Arthur Stafford as the high school Principal for the 2023 – 2024 school year.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Robert Bianchetta, Quint Harmon, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
Mr. Bianchetta moved and Mr. Rogers seconded to approve amending the contract of Superintendent Christopher Spencer as discussed in closed session.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Robert Bianchetta, Steve Rogers, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Mary Gill, Chuck Lander
Motion: Carried.
BOARD STUDY SESSION OF THE WHOLE DATE: FEBRUARY 22, 2023 @ 6 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: MARCH 1, 2023 @ 6 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
ADJOURNMENT
Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Hamilton seconded to adjourn the meeting at 7:23 p.m. President Miller asked if there was any opposition to the motion, hearing none considers the motion approved.
https://4.files.edl.io/5117/03/02/23/175953-76618d8b-74f2-403a-9f01-6a8bfa98c939.pdf
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