Grundy Reporter

Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education met Oct. 2.

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: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, and Ken Miller. Also, in attendance was Superintendent Christopher Spencer, CSBO Jason Smith, Director of Curriculum & Instruction Jennifer Kenney, Director of Special Populations Luke Krippel, Community Relations Specialist Ann Gill, and Administrative Assistant to Finance Leah Hajdu. Secretary to the Board of Education LaWanda Gagliardo was absent, along with Board Member Dan Engelhardt.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 

President Miller led the Board and others present in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS 

1. Introduction/acknowledgement of guests.

2. The building Principals were in attendance introduced their new certified staff members for the24 – 25 school year

Early Childhood Center 

Justin Kinder

Rebecca Pendergast

Lauren Schoonover

Elementary School 

Jennifer Martino

Intermediate School 

Ann Ternes

Middle School 

Kathryn Drey

Rebecca Himes

Brenna Noffsinger

McKenna Wankowski

High School 

Christopher Cook

Luke Hittle

Brittany LeFevre

Alicia Matusiak

Emily Vandergrift

3. Mrs. Davidson, Principal at the Early Childhood Center, was in attendance and acknowledged her team of pre-school teachers on achieving The Gold Circle of Quality for Pre-School For All program within the district. Mrs. Davidson acknowledged Mrs. Harseim’s work in preparing the ECC’s pre school team for the audit. Board President Miller and Superintendent Christopher Spencer thanked the pre-school teachers for all their hard work and everything they do for the students.

COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR 

1. In regard to agenda items – none.

2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – David Stover a Grundy County resident is the Business Administrator for the Local 150 Union was in attendance and spoke on behalf of the Union asking the school district to put a PLA back into place. Board President Miller thanked him for his comment, and it will be taken into consideration.

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 building requests.

Mr. Hamilton moved and Mrs. Klein seconded to approve the consent agenda including:

MINUTES 

September 4, 2024 - Regular Meeting 

CLOSED SESSION MINUTES

None.

FINANCIAL REPORTS 

Activity Fund Reports – August 2024

Treasurer’s Report – August 2024

Monthly Manual Check Report – September 2024

Payroll Report – September 2024

Accounts Payable Report – October 2024

PERSONNEL 

Resignations 

• Rebecca Acred – full-time Classroom Aide at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Acred’s last day was September 17, 2024

• Caitlyn Cary – 1:1 Special Ed Aide at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Cary’s last day was September 26, 2024

• Sloane Montana – Custodian Floater for the District – Mr. Montana’s last day was September 11, 2024

Employments - pending satisfactory completion of all state requirements 

• Beth Babcock – 1:1 Special Ed Aide at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Babcock’s anticipated start date is October 7, 2024

• Jaimie Bianchetta – 1:1 Special Ed Aide at the Elementary School – Ms. Bianchetta’s anticipated start is October 3, 2024

• Jennifer Endrst – Concession Stand Coordinator at the Middle School – Mrs. Endrst will start September 25, 2024

• Travis Johnson – Custodian Floater for the District – Mr. Johnson’s anticipated start date is October 7, 2024

• Kelly Schmitt – 1:1 Special Ed Aide at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Schmitt’s anticipated start date is October 7, 2024

• Anne Watson – Concession Stand Coordinator at the High School – Mrs. Watson will start September 30, 2024.

• Calin Wolcott – Classroom Aide at the High School – Ms. Wolcott is replacing Aislinn Jones.

Extra-Curricular Assignments 

• Kathryn Drey – Speech Sponsor at the Middle School

• Jim Hitchcock – Middle School Chess Club Sponsor

Advertising Donations 

$2,500 Donation 

Coal City Dental

$5,000 Donation 

Riverside Healthcare

$7,500 Donation 

Elliott Electric

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Cindy Klein, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

Motion: Carried.

ADMINISTRATORS' REPORTS 

A. EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER REPORT 

Principal Davidson Reported:

Calendar of Events: 

September 27th - Coaler Friday

September 27th - Lockdown Drill @ 9:30am

September 30th - October 4th - Homecoming Week

September 30th - ‘Merica Monday

September 30th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 1st - Twisted Tuesday

October 2nd - Wild Wednesday

October 3rd - Class Color Day

October 3rd - Staff Culture Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 4th - Coaler Friday

October 4th - Homecoming Parade @ 2:30pm

October 7th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 7th - ECC/ES McTeacher Night @ 4:30pm-7:30pm

October 8th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 9th - Early Dismissal @ 11:30am (AM PreK attends)

October 11th - Coaler Friday

October 14th - NO SCHOOL

October 15th - GCN Deadline #1

October 15th - CPI Team Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 17th - LLT @ 8:00am-11:00am

October 17th - PBS Team Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 21st - Specials Team Meeting @ 11:40am

October 21st - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 21st - Support Staff Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 22nd - Kindergarten Team Meeting @ 11:25am

October 22nd - 1st Grade Team Meeting @ 12:15pm

October 23rd - PreK Team Meeting @ 10:45am

October 23rd - ECC Picture Retake Day

October 24th - Early Dismissal Day/Parent/Teacher Conferences @ 4:00pm-8:00pm

October 25th - NO SCHOOL/Parent/Teacher Conferences @ 9:00am-1:00pm

October 28th - November 1st - Red Ribbon Week

October 28th - Custodian Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 28th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 30th - Staff Meeting @ 2:55pm

October 31st - AM PreK Halloween Parade @ 10:00am

October 31st - PM PreK/Kindergarten/1st grade Halloween Parade @ 1:45pm

Current ECC Enrollment for 2023-2024: 

PreK: 154

Kindergarten: 141

1st Grade: 147 

Total: 442 (in PowerSchool as of September 25th, 2024) 

Completed Safety Drills: 

● Shelter-in-Place Drill - September 5th

● Fire Drill - September 10th

● Lockdown Drill - September 27th

Month-in-Review: 

ECC Picture Day: 

● Students and staff dressed in their best for the annual picture day at the Early Childhood Center (ECC).

● Individual and group photos taken for memories and yearbooks.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month:

● Penny Wars: Fundraiser where students competed to raise money by donating coins to support childhood cancer research.

● Wear Gold Wednesdays: Staff and students wore gold each Wednesday to show solidarity and support for childhood cancer awareness.

● Yellow Bracelet Sales: Bracelets sold to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer.

● Hat Day: Students wore their favorite hats, with donations collected for participation.

● Silly Sock Day: A fun day where students wore silly socks to bring attention to childhood cancer and raise awareness.

Homecoming Week:

● Themed dress-up days each day, with ECC students joining in the fun by following the high school students’ dress-up themes.

Busy October Ahead 

October is packed with exciting events and important activities for everyone!

● Homecoming Week kicks off with themed dress-up days to celebrate with the Coalers.

● Parent/Teacher Conferences provide an opportunity for parents to connect with teachers about their child’s progress.

● Halloween celebrations will bring fun, costumes, and the annual Halloween parade.

● Picture Retake Day offers another chance to capture perfect school photos.

● Fire Prevention Month will include safety lessons and drills to ensure everyone knows how to stay safe and a visit from Coal City Fire Department.

● Red Ribbon Week focuses on promoting positive choices with themed days and educational activities.

It’s sure to be a month full of excitement and engagement!

Recognition: 

Congratulations to Our Preschool Staff! 

We are thrilled to announce that our incredible preschool staff has earned the prestigious Gold Circle of Excellence from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)! This recognition highlights their outstanding commitment to providing top-quality education and care for our young learners.

Their dedication, hard work, and passion for excellence in education continue to set a high standard for all. We are so proud of their achievements and grateful for the positive impact they have on our students each day.

Thank you to the preschool staff for your unwavering dedication to creating a nurturing and enriching environment for our children!

ECC Students Recognized for Being "Engaged" 

Throughout September, students at the ECC focused on being "engaged" in their learning and daily activities. On Friday, September 27th, students were recognized at a morning assembly for demonstrating exceptional "engaged" behavior. These students, chosen by their classroom teachers, stood out for their active participation, focus, and involvement in their classrooms.

Congratulations to all the students who were recognized for their efforts in staying engaged and making the most of their learning experiences! Keep up the great work!

In October, the students will be focused on working to be “cooperative.”

B. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL REPORT 

Principal Trotter reported:

Calendar of Events: 

September 30th - October 4th: Homecoming Week

October 4th: 1:35 Dismissal

October 4th: Homecoming Parade

October 7th: ECC/ES McTeacher Night (4:30-7:30)

October 9th: 11:45 Dismissal

October 14th: No School (Columbus Day)

October 24th: 11:45 Dismissal

October 24th & 25th: Parent-Teacher Conferences

October 28th - November 1st: Red Ribbon Week

October 31st: Halloween Parade/Parties

ES Enrollment: 

2nd Grade: 143 students

3rd Grade: 161 students

5th Grade (SpEd) 5 students 

Total: 309 (enrolled as of 9/26/2024) 

CCES Happenings and Recognitions: 

● We celebrated ‘Grandparents Day’ by inviting our special guests into the building. Our students took their guests on a scavenger hunt around the building and participated in some fun activities in the classroom.

● We had our first early dismissal day which was also our school picture day. The picture company did an amazing job and have been wonderful to work with.

● Our Librarian, Kristen Erhard, organized our first book fair of the year through the Scholastic Company. Of course, Kristen did an amazing job with everything. At the end of the week-long book fair, Kristen raised over $9900.00. With that money Kristen can purchase items for the library and the school.

● The GAVC Fire Science students stopped by to give our students a presentation on Fire Safety. The presentation was informative, and our students really enjoyed getting to know our future Firefighters.

C. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL REPORT 

Principal Carlson reported:

Calendar of Upcoming Events: 

9/30-10/4 FastBridge Fall Benchmarking Continues

9/30-10/4 Homecoming Week Spirit Days 

9/30 – 'Merica Monday (Patriotic/USA gear)

10/1 – Twisted Tuesday (Teacher’s dress like Students, Students dress like Teachers and bring anything BUT a backpack)

10/2 – Wild Wednesday (Animal prints/Safari)

10/3 – Class Color Day

10/4 – Coalers Spirit Day

10/1 TALC Meeting 3:00

10/2 Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.

10/2 Custodian Appreciate Day

10/2 Team Meetings 3:00

10/3 Support Staff Meeting 3:00

10/4 1:25 Dismissal for 2:30 Homecoming Parade

10/7 A Team Meeting 3:00

10/8 PBS Meeting 3:00

10/9 11:35 Dismissal

10/10 4th Grade Muffins with Me & My VIP 7:30-8:30 a.m.

10/11 5th Grade Muffins with Me & My VIP 7:30-8:30 a.m.

10/11 PBS Assembly ~ Staff vs. Students in Office Chair Basketball

10/14 No School ~ Columbus Day

10/15 TALC Meeting 3:00

10/16 Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.

10/16 School Store in Library 7:40-8:00 a.m.

10/16 BLT/Problem Solving Meetings all day

10/17 LLT Meeting 8:00-11:00 at CCHS

10/17 CPI Team Meeting 3:00

10/18 Picture Retakes & All-School Photo

10/18 Walk to CCHS for Fall Play Preview 1:00

10/21-10/24 Red Ribbon Week

10/21 SpEd Team 3:00

10/22 4th Grade Field Trip to Brookfield Zoo

10/22 PBS Meeting 3:00

10/23 Assessment Reviews 3:00

10/24 11:35 Dismissal; Parent/Teacher Conferences 4:00-8:00

10/25 No School; Parent/Teacher Conferences 8:00-1:00

10/28 SAP Meeting 3:00

10/29 5th Grade Field Trip to Chicago Wolves Game

10/29 TALC Meeting 3:00

10/30 Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.

10/31 Halloween Hallway Indoor Parade 8:10-8:30

10/31 Custodian Meeting 3:00

Current Enrollment: 

4th Grade 157

5th Grade 138 

Total: 295 This includes six 5th grade students who are enrolled in other special education programs outside of CCIS.

Emergency/Crisis Drills Completed: 

Bus Evacuation 8/20/24

Evacuation/Fire 8/21/24

Shelter-in-Place/Storm 8/22/24

Lockdown 8/22/24

Previous Month in Review: 

• On 8/30 we had a pizza party for our 17 new students so we could get to know each other better, and they could ask questions about CCIS.

• We held our Student Council homeroom elections during the last week of August. The members are listed below in the Student Recognition section. The Student Council meets every two weeks at 7:30 a.m. with Mrs. Ness, the sponsor.

• September 5th was “Go Gold for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month”, so students and staff wore yellow or gold shirts to school.

• The Wellness Committee sponsored Bike to School Days on September 9, 16, 23 and 30. We had over 90 students’ bike to school on 9/9.

• Since our school picture day was on 9/11, we celebrated Patriot Day on 9/10 by wearing Red, White and Blue.

• Our Student Council sponsored “Hats Off to Cancer Research” on September 12. Students and Staff could wear a hat during school if they donated. We collected $221.40 which will be donated to Megan’s Mission in support of Childhood Cancer Awareness month.

• On September 18, we held our 7th annual CCIS Pizza Night from 4:00-8:30. Twenty-eight staff members (listed below in Staff Recognition) volunteered to make this wonderful event possible. We delivered 335 pizzas and 468 crumbl cookies. It was so much fun! We appreciate Geo’s Pizza and D’Orazio Ford for supporting our event.

• It was National Dumpling Day on 9/26, so the fabulous Erin Christopher came to CCIS during all 4 lunch sessions to give every student a free dumpling/potsticker to sample. Students were given stickers so they could vote “yay” or “nay” to help decide if we should offer the dumplings for a lunch entrée. Since the majority of students liked the dumpling, Erin plans to add this to our November lunch menu.

• We currently have 9 students in ASAP (After School Assistance Program). Recommended students receive homework help from 3:00-4:00 three days a week from Mrs. Cowherd or Mrs. Rink.

• We held the following Theme Thursday Spirit Days this past month: Go Gold for Childhood Cancer Awareness, Hat Day for Childhood Cancer Awareness, Pajama Day and Exercise & Electronics Day.

• Every Friday morning members from CCHS Sports/Clubs are invited to CCIS to greet our students as they arrive at school. So far, we have had varsity players from football, soccer, cheerleading and golf come to CCIS, and we look forward to continuing this every Friday.

• Every Friday was Coaler Spirit Day at CCIS.

Student Recognition: 

• Congratulations to the following Students of the Week:

Week of 9/3: Izyk Decker, Haley Seaward, Sylvia Leman, Mason Wren

Week of 9/9: Juliette Mason, Jacob Harris, Danny Matsko, Grace Reyelts

Week of 9/16: Charlie Stott, Everett Proffit, Hazel D'Arcy, Liam Barrus

Week of 9/23: Sawyer Hodge, Daxton Carey, Grace Medina-Flores, Frank Moraza 

• Congratulations to our first semester Student Council Representatives:

Staff Recognition: 

• I want to recognize and thank Nikki Boresi, Amy Gaffigan, Betsy Cowherd and Ali Scrogham for planning and organizing our Pizza Delivery Night. It was a lot of work.

• I would like to recognize and thank these 28 staff members who helped with our Pizza Delivery Night. I really appreciate the time they volunteered for this fantastic event.

• I want to thank Jen Kenney for coming to CCIS to cover 4th grade lunch duty on 9/20.

• I want to recognize the following staff members who received the weekly CCIS Kudos:

o Mrs. Gaffigan for producing the CCIS Video

o Ms. Miller for looking into additional support for our EL students

o Mrs. Johnson for all the running she's doing to help our students in need of medical support

o Miss Minnick for being a fast runner

D. MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT 

Principal Stone reported:

Calendar of Events 

September 30-Oct 4 Homecoming Week

October 2 Board of Education Meeting

October 4 1:45 p.m. Dismissal for Homecoming Parade at 2:30 p.m.

October 9 12:00 p.m. Early Dismissal

MS School Picture Retake/Fall Sports Pictures

October 14 No School – Columbus Day

October 15 End of 1st Quarter

October 24 12:00 p.m. Early Dismissal

Parent/Teacher Conferences – 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

October 25 Parent/Teacher Conferences – 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

October 29 8th Grade Students to GAVC Career Fair

Enrollment Numbers on 9/26 

6th Grade 139

7th Grade 160

8th Grade 160 

Total 459 

E. HIGH SCHOOL REPORT 

Principal Stafford reported:

Calendar of Events: 

➔ September 30 - Homecoming Week Begins - “Coaler Safari”

➔ October 2 - Spirit Night @ 7:00 p.m.- Stadium

➔ October 4 - Homecoming Parade

➔ October 4 - Homecoming game - Coalers vs. Reed Custer

➔ October 5 - Homecoming dance

➔ October 9 - Fall Testing/Pre-ACT - No senior attendance

➔ October 16 - ICE Leadership Conference @ Manteno High School

➔ October 17 - Opening Night - Fall Play - Harry Potter

➔ October 22 - Fire Drill

➔ October 22 - Elyssa’s Mission presentation

➔ October 24 & 25 - Parent teacher conferences

➔ October 30 - Haunted Hallways

Month in Review: 

➔ New student ice cream social - CCHS welcomed over 12 new students this past August. To help them check in with each other along with some link leaders, the school sponsored a new student ice cream social in the four-season room.

➔ ISU campus visit - On September 22nd, a group of 35 juniors and seniors attended Illinois State University’s open house campus visit. Students heard an admissions presentation, went on a campus tour, attended a university fair and were able to eat lunch in a residence hall dining center. The goal was to get students on a college campus to start thinking about plans after graduation. In order to attend, students had to meet minimum admission requirements.

➔ Post-HS event - This past Thursday the high school hosted its annual Post High School event. It was a great opportunity for all students, freshmen through seniors to explore different colleges, trades, military branches and different resources for after high school. Students were respectful, welcoming, and asked a lot of great questions to the representatives in attendance. This year, the event added more employers from the area including Morris Hospital, Aldi, Cardinal Transport, Jewel, Lyondell Basel and Costco.

Recognition: 

➔ GAVC Director Award Winner - Each month the Grundy County Vocational Center recognizes an outstanding student from each of its programs. This month, two students were honored. Tessa Sales was recognized for her work within the Foundation of Teaching program and Alaina Morales was recognized in Health Occupations. Congratulations to Tessa and Alaina for their accomplishments.

Current Enrollment: 

Freshman: 169

Sophomore: 164

Junior: 176

Senior: 143 

Total Enrollment: 652 

Discipline Report: 

Vaping - 7

Skipping class - 7

2024 – 2025 Page 70

Coal City Community Unit School District #1

Board of Education Meeting Minutes 

Wednesday, October 2, 2024 

Physical harassment - 1

Reckless driving - 2

F. STUDENT SERVICES REPORT 

Director Krippel reported:

LEA Determination Review - Illinois State Board of Education 

The Illinois State Board of Education provides each school district with an Annual Determination Report. The purpose of this report is to determine performance in multiple categories regarding the provision of special education and related services to students with disabilities. This report (FY 2023) found Coal City CUSD #1 to “Meet Requirements” by scoring 36 out of 36 possible points. Because of this performance score, the district is considered a “tiered level of support - 1” which means no further action or remediation is required. This is the third consecutive year that our district has been honored with a perfect score from ISBE. Our entire special education team deserves the highest praise and recognition for this report as this accomplishment is a team effort.

Preschool Program - Gold Circle of Quality 

Our preschool program was recently awarded a Gold Circle of Quality by the Illinois State Board of Education. This is the highest rating a program can receive and is based on our performance and intense monitoring visits by the state. Mrs. Davidson and the entire preschool program deserve the highest praise and recognition for this honor!

Board Member Shawn Hamilton asked Mr. Krippel to compile historical IEP data from 3 to 4 years ago to current.

G. CURRICULUM REPORT 

Director Kenney reported:

Professional Development: 

Our first session of our 1st semester professional learning strands was a success. Our outside presenters fully engaged our staff and gave them practical strategies to utilize in their classroom. We look forward to welcoming them back on October 9th. Second semester professional development is currently being planned. We will be focusing on Mastery Manager training as a way to track data and make informed decisions utilizing that data.

Assessment System 

This year, we will begin the transition from SchoolNet to Mastery Manager. Our Department Leaders took part in a full-day training to learn how to create assessments and utilize the data provided by the program. The Department Leaders were excited to begin using the program and create their assessments. Several teachers have agreed to pilot the program, and we look forward to the full implementation process during the 2025-2026 school year. Training for all teachers will happen during 2nd semester professional development.

Illinois Science Assessment 

The results from the 2023-2024 Illinois Science Assessment have arrived. We are extremely pleased with the results and look forward to improving them for the 2024-2025 school year. Jim Looper and Jen Rink, Science Department Leaders, are busy preparing their departments for the Spring test. 

H. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT 

Superintendent Spencer reported:

1. Student Teacher/Internships 

Dominique Kinney will complete a four (4) week internship with Jennifer Swanson, Occupational Therapist, at the Early Childhood Center. This internship will start October 1, 2024, through October 31, 2024.

Alexander Smith will complete his student teaching Marty Egan, Special Education Teacher at the high school, for his first 9 weeks, and with Lori Hamilton, 3rd Grade Teacher, at the elementary school for his second 9 weeks.

2. Monthly student enrollment figures

Mr. Spencer recognized Jack Micetich for all his work with the All-State production this year. Mr. Spencer pointed out all the ribbons received by Coal City students a Cornfest in the boardroom. Mr. Spencer affirmed with the Board that the iron workers are getting paid prevailing wages, and all the district’s documents related to this are in order.

DATES TO REMEMBER 

September 30 – October 4 – Homecoming Week

October 5 – Homecoming Dance @ CCHS

October 8 – Book Fair at Middle School

October 9 – Early Dismissal/MS Picture Retakes & Fall Sports Pictures

October 10 – Elyssa’s Mission @ Middle School

October 14 – Columbus Day/No School

October 15 – HS/MS End of 1st Quarter

October 15 – Last day to make changes/cancellations for Joint Annual Conference

October 17 & 19 – Fall Play @ CCHS @ 7:00 p.m.

October 20 – Fall Play @ CCHS @ 2:00 p.m.

October 22 – Elyssa’s Mission @ CCHS

October 23 – Spanish Honor Society Induction @ 7:00 p.m.

October 23 – ECC Picture Retakes

October 24 – Early Dismissal/Parent/Teacher Conferences 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

October 25 – No School/Parent Teacher Conferences 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

October 26 - Fall Play @ CCHS @ 7:00 p.m.

October 27 - Fall Play @ CCHS @ 2:00 p.m.

October 30 – BSSW Meeting @ 7:00 p.m.

November 20 – 24 – Joint Annual Conference Friday Workshops

I. GRUNDY AREA VOCATIONAL CENTER REPORT 

Mr. Engelhardt reported:

1. Approved the Minutes of the August 22, 2024, Budget Hearing and Board of Control Meeting.

2. The GAVC Board of Control approved the 2024 - 2025 11th day enrollments and Equalized Assessed Value (EAV).

3. Approved the bills, payroll, and financial reports.

4. Green and Associates presented the Health and Life Safety Report to the Board of Control.

5. Assistant Director Gierke discussed the programs that offered Dual Credit and Industry Credentials.

6. Assistant Director Gierke provided the Board of Control updates on the programs at GAVC.

7. Assistant Director Gierke discussed the new Entrepreneurship 2 course at GAVC.

8. Assistant Director Gierke informed the Board that administration had begun the Evaluations of staff.

9. Assistant Director Gierke informed the Board that the First Professional Learning Community (PLC’s) started in September.

10. Dean Sampson informed the Board of Control that GAVC’s Emergency Plan has been updated and approved by local emergency management.

11. Dean Sampson informed the Board of Control that GAVC will have students that will be participating in the Grundy County Cornfest Parade.

12. Dean Sampson updated the board on the 8th Grade Career Fair that is set for October 29.

13. Director Copes updated the Board of Control on the October calendar.

14. Director Copes provided an update on Project House 27.

15. Director Copes discussed the process for developing the FY26 school calendar.

16. Approved the ten-year Health Life Safety plan as presented.

17. Accepted the resignation of Kevin Crickman, Director of Maintenance. 18. Approved the posting of the Director of Maintenance position.

19. Approved the hiring of Kathy Drake as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator.

20. Approved the FY25 Emergency Crisis and Threat Assessment Plans.

21. Approved allowing the Director to attend the National CTE Conference in December 2024.

J. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR REPORT 

Athletic Director Boresi reported:

Calendar of Events: 

Sep. 10 Boys Golf Senior Night

Sep. 20 Band, Girls Golf, Cheer, & Football Senior Night

2004 State Runner-Up Recognition Night

Sep. 24 Girls Volleyball held Megan Bugg Cancer Night vs. Reed-Custer Oct. 1 Girls Golf Regional - Dwight Country Club

Oct. 2 Boys Golf Regional - Cinder Ridge (Coal City hosting)

Coal City High School is also hosting the girls’ volleyball regional and boys soccer regional.

Fall Sports Current Records & Accomplishments: 

Football: 3-1

Boys Soccer: 10-5-1

Girls Tennis: 7-4

Boys Golf: 

• Frankie Ponio & Jerry Carlson - All Conference Golfers

Girls Golf: 

• ICE Conference Champions

• Kylee Kennell overall ICE Conference Champion

• Kylee Kennell, Madi Petersen, D’Arcy Ness, & Dakota Clubb were all recognized as All Conference Golfers

Volleyball: 12-10

• Emma Rodriguez named to Manteno Invite All-Tournament Team

Thank you to the fall coaches, especially the football program, for being flexible and accommodating to all their athletes involved with Harry Potter, and to all who attend the meet and greet and show in Chicago on Wednesday, September 25th.

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 ON FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT PLAN 

Superintendent Christopher Spencer provided the Board with an update on the Facilities Improvement Plan. The softball field turf installation was receiving the final touches this week, and the turf for the baseball field was being installed; they are still waiting on the materials to complete the roof on the middle school concession stand; the doors for the storage facility at the middle school are coming this weekend, and the remaining furniture had been delivered.

B. FINAL READING ON REVISED DISTRICT POLICIES 

The following district policies were revised and submitted for review. The first reading took place on August 28; the second reading on September 4, this was the third and final reading. The Board Policy Committee made their final recommendation for Board action.

2:260	Uniform Grievance Procedure
2:265	Title IX Grievance Procedure
2:265-AP1	Title IX Response
2:265-AP2	Formal Title IX Complaint Grievance Process
2:265-AP3	Title IX Coordinator
2:265-E	Title IX Glossary of Terms
5:100	Staff Development Program
7:10-AP1	Accommodating Transgender, Nonbinary, or Gender Nonconforming Students
7:12-AP2	Accommodating Breastfeeding Students
7:20	Harassment of Students Prohibited
7:20-AP	Harassment of Students Prohibited
7:185	Teen Dating Violence Prohibited

Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the revised district policies, as presented.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

Motion: Carried.

NEW BUSINESS 

A. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON DELEGATE/ALTERNATE TO THE IASB DELEGATE ASSEMBLY AT THE JOINT ANNUAL CONFERENCE 

The Association's Delegate Assembly, comprised of one voting delegate from each member district, is the policy-making body of IASB. Through a vetted resolutions process, proposals presented by member school boards will be introduced, discussed, and voted upon. Final results will guide the Association's position statements and staff in ongoing legislative efforts. A delegate and alternate must be appointed to represent our district at this assembly.

Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Rogers seconded to appoint Quint Harmon as delegate and Shawn Hamilton as alternate at the IASB Delegate Assembly at Joint Annual Conference.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

Motion: Carried.

B. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON THE DONATION FROM THE ATHLETIC BOOSTERS 

The Athletic Boosters donated $449.99 for the purchase of an outdoor grill for the district’s athletic program. The Board and Superintendent Christopher Spencer thanked the Athletic Boosters for their donation.

Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Hamilton seconded to approve the donation of $449.99 from the Athletic Boosters for the district’s athletics program.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Quint Harmon, Shawn Hamilton, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

Motion: Carried.

C. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON SUBMITTING THE LIBRARY MEDIA GRANT APPLICATION 

Coal City School District Librarian Allison Peterson applied for the Illinois State Library Grant Program. As a result of Mrs. Peterson’s efforts, in the past the school district has been awarded this grant. The Board has adopted the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights. The Board and Superintendent Christopher Spencer thanked Mrs. Peterson for her efforts.

Mr. Harmon moved and Mrs. Klein seconded to approve the submittal of the Library Media Grant application.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

Motion: Carried.

D. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON ACCEPTING THE ANONYMOUS DONATION FOR BRANDING AND THE ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT 

An anonymous donation in the amount of $15,000 was made for branding and the district’s athletic department.

Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Rogers seconded to accept the anonymous donation in amount of $15,000 for branding and the district’s athletic department.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

Motion: Carried.

E. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON ACCEPTING THE DONATION FROM COAL CITY SOCCER CLUB 

Superintendent Christopher Spencer discussed the donation from Coal City Soccer Club in the amount of $13,851. This donation will cover the cost of the co-ed soccer program at the middle school. The program has followed all IESA codes of conduct with grades etc... The program has

fully funded by Coal City Soccer Club for the first three (3) years. Coal City Soccer Club is donating $13,851 to cover the expenses for the third year.

Mr. Harmon moved and Mrs. Klein seconded to accept the donation from Coal City Soccer Club in the amount of $13,851, as presented.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

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. Hamon moved and Mr. Rogers seconded to go to closed session at 6:43 p.m. for the purpose of considering information regarding filling a vacant position on the Board of Education.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Shawn Hamilton, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

Motion: Carried.

Mr. Hamilton moved and Mr. Harmon seconded to return to open session at 6:59 p.m.

Roll Call. 

Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller

Nays:

Absent: Dan Engelhardt

Motion: Carried.

BOARD STUDY SESSION OF THE WHOLE DATE: OCTOBER 30, 2024 @ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom 

NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: NOVEMBER 6, 2024 @ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom 

ADJOURNMENT 

Mr. Harmon moved and Mr. Rogers seconded to adjourn the meeting at 7:02 p.m. President Miller asked if there was any opposition to the motion, hearing none considers the motion approved.

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