Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board Members | Coal City Community Unit School District #1
Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board Members | Coal City Community Unit School District #1
Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education met Dec. 4.
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: Jeff Emerson, Dan Engelhardt, 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 Secretary to the Board of Education LaWanda Gagliardo.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Miller led the Board, 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 2024 property tax levy on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. A notice was published in the Coal City Courant newspaper on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. President Miller asked if any guests wished to make a comment on the proposed property tax increase, this was the appropriate time to do so.
CSBO Jason Smith provided the Board and others present, with a summary and short presentation of the FY26 levy.
Comments:
Board President Miller read a statement informing members of the audience that the Board will hear their comments, and will not be taking any questions, and that each person who wanted to speak they would be given 5 minutes.
Neil Nelson – 603 Hunters Run – Coal City, IL – Mr. Nelson thanked the Board for serving, and thanked the other residents in attendance for attending the meeting. Mr. Nelson wanted to know the cost of legal fees for filing the assessment complaints regarding the GE Hitachi property? He wanted to know what deal was made with the taxing body for CPV? Why are the property taxes increasing? He complained about the increase of the cost of living. He stated he never received an answer from Mr. Spencer. He asked can the Board stay after to get questions answered? He wanted to know why the other taxing bodies aren’t asking for EAV of 20% increase? He stated he was truly concerned about the district being 38 million dollars in debt. He questioned why the new athletic fields? He stated why is school asking people to sacrifice to pay taxes.
Rich Bushing(?) – 1009 S. Mazon Coal City, IL – Mr. Bushing(?) – Moved to Coal City from Channahon due to high taxes in Channahon. He stated that Minooka was giving $1,000 back to taxpayers. He wanted to know where the district’s money comes from it not Dresden. He voiced his concerns about the student capacity in the elementary school, and wondering what the district is going to do about the building. He mentioned several times his number of years as an electrician and that the district could enlist the assistance of the community regarding the intermediate school.
Al Parkins(?) – 135 W. Maple Coal City, IL – Mr. Parkins(?) – Stated he has resided in Coal City for 30 years and questioned the assessed evaluation of his home that has increased his tax rate. He spoke about GE Hitachi and the fact that the Collins Station closed due to increased property taxes and that is something the district should be concerned about with GE Hitachi.
Tina Johnson – Diamond, IL resident – Provided a summary of her struggle to make ends meet due to the assessment of her property being increased in value. She felt the district should’ve been better prepared for the condition of the Intermediate School. She wasn’t sure if the district has social workers. She complained about the athletic fields being toxic and that the district supports athletics more than academics, why is the district not focusing on tutoring, and she said something about videos being shown in classrooms. Ms. Johnson wants her questions answered, she wants the Board to conduct a Q & A board meeting. She thanked the Board for serving.
Bill Forte(?) – Coal City resident – Mr. Forte(?) wanted to know the cost difference between maintenance of the turf versus grass for the athletic fields. He also wanted to know the backup plan that’s in place for the auditorium, he feels like the district website if not user friendly, and everyone complained about the miss timeframe for school board elections. He wanted to know why the Board doesn’t answer questions, he also wanted to know if the Board investigated mobile classrooms for teaching. He thanked the Board for their service, and stated the taxes are taxing the taxpayers out and made another comment about businesses closing out.
Mr. Spencer encouraged all community members in attendance to make an appointment with him and he would be more than willing to answer any questions and address any concerns they have.
Board President Miller offered to remain after the meeting and answer any questions that those in attendance had, but that the Board meeting is for comment only.
Tracy M. – 240 Marguerite St. Coal City – Tracy has 4 children in the district and owns her home and is worried about the assessed value of her home increasing. She stated she needed answers and wanted to know how she would receive them. She stated that having a meeting like this is a waste of everyone’s time.
Lori Zalenka(?) – resides on Spring & Illinois St. Coal City resident – Ms. Zalenka(?) wanted to know who makes the determination of why there is no question-and-answer option. She asked that question twice. She also stated there really needs to be some transparency and that this is extremely important to the community, and that this is not bringing everyone together.
President Miller asked: If there were any further questions? Hearing none, President Miller 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 6:38 p.m. with the board members answering roll call present: Jeff Emerson, Dan Engelhardt, 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 Secretary to the Board of Education LaWanda Gagliardo.
NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Introduction/acknowledgement of guests. – none.
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.
Mr. Engelhardt moved, and Mrs. Klein seconded to approve the consent agenda.
MINUTES
November 6, 2024 - Regular Meeting
CLOSED SESSION MINUTES
November 6, 2024 - Regular Meeting
FINANCIAL REPORTS
Activity Fund Reports – October 2024
Treasurer’s Report – October 2024
Monthly Manual Check Report – November 2024
Payroll Report – November 2024
Accounts Payable Report – December 2024
PERSONNEL
Resignations
• Angelica Acosta – 1:1 Special Ed Aide at the High School – Ms. Acosta’s last day will be Friday, December 13, 2024.
Employments - pending satisfactory completion of all state requirements
• Cody Dunavan – Maintenance for the District – Mr. Dunavan’s anticipated start date is December 5, 2024.
Leave Requests
• Keegan Clampitt – 1:1 Special Ed Aide at the Middle School – Mr. Clampitt is requesting a fifteen (15) day paid sick leave from approximately Monday, December 2, 2024, through Friday, December 13, 2024. Mr. Clampitt plans to return Monday, January 6, 2025, which is the Monday after winter break.
Retirement Requests
• Tanya Miller – 5th Grade Teacher at the Intermediate School – Mrs. Miller has revised her retirement date from the conclusion of the 25 – 26 school year, to the conclusion of the 24 – 25 school year.
Extra-Curricular Assignments
• Joseph Fatigante – Assistant High School Speech Coach
High School Athletic Director Brad Boresi is recommending the following for coaching positions within the district:
• Brad Schmitt – Assistant Varsity Softball Coach
Middle School Athletic Director Rodney Monbrum is recommending the following for coaching or volunteering positions within the district:
• J.R. Rivera – Assistant Middle School Wrestling Coach
• Zach Finch – Middle School Assistant Wrestling Coach split
• Adam Rodriguez – Middle School Wrestling Coach split
• Ryan Wasielewski – Middle School Assistant Wrestling Coach split
• Ryan Webster – Middle School Wrestling Coach split
• Dean Christensen – Volunteer Coach for Middle School Wrestling
• Chris Figge – Volunteer Coach for Middle School Wrestling
Job Posting
CSBO Jason Smith retires at the conclusion of the 25 – 26 school year, and Superintendent Christopher Spencer would like to post and ad for his position.
HSA Contributions:
| 2025 HSA Contributions | |
| Brad Boresi | $1,650.00 |
| Tracy Carlson | $3,300.00 |
| Amanda Davidson | $3,300.00 |
| LaWanda Gagliardo | $3,300.00 |
| Ann Gill | $1,650.00 |
| Jennifer Kenney | $3,300.00 |
| Luke Krippel | $3,300.00 |
| Corey Mikula | $3,300.00 |
| Rodney Monbrum | $3,300.00 |
| Rebecca Pendergast | $3,300.00 |
| Jason Smith | $3,300.00 |
| Christopher Spencer | $3,300.00 |
| Art Stafford | $3,300.00 |
| Cameron Stone | $3,300.00 |
| Taryn Trotter | $1,650.00 |
| Denny Wickiser | $3,300.00 |
| Kristen Wilson | $3,300.00 |
| Total: | $51,150.00 |
A. EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER REPORT
Principal Davidson Reported:
Calendar of Events:
November 25th - Custodian Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
November 26th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
November 27th - 29th - Thanksgiving Break
December 2nd - Students Return
December 2nd - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 3rd - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 4th - A Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 4th - Preschool Parent Engagement Event @ 5:00 p.m.
December 5th - Staff Culture Committee Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 9th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 10th - CPI Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 11th - Early Dismissal @ 11:30 a.m.
December 12th - PBS Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 13th - Specials Team Meeting @ 11:40 a.m.
December 13th - GCN Deadline #2
December 16th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 16th - Support Staff Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 16th - Custodian Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 17th - Admin Team Meeting @ 9:00 a.m.
December 17th - Potential Date for Santa’s Workshop
December 17th - Kindergarten Team Meeting @ 11:20 a.m.
December 17th - 1st Grade Team Meeting @ 12:10 p.m.
December 17th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 18th - PreK Team Meeting @ 10:45 a.m.
December 18th - Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
December 20th - Early Dismissal
December 21st - January 5th - Winter Break
January 6th - Teacher’s Institute
January 7th - Students return
Current ECC Enrollment for 2023-2024:
PreK: 175
Kindergarten: 143
1st Grade: 151
Total: 469 (in PowerSchool as of November 20th, 2024)
Completed Safety Drills:
● Shelter-in-Place Drill - September 5th
● Fire Drill - September 10th
● Lockdown Drill - September 27th
● Fire Drill - October 15th
● Bus Evacuation Drills - September 3rd, 2024
Month-in-Review:
November Month in Review at Coal City ECC
• November was a busy and exciting month at Coal City Early Childhood Center! Our students enjoyed participating in voting activities, with Kindergarteners choosing between Farmer Brown and Duck, while 1st graders voted for their favorite treat: Oreo or Chips Ahoy.
• We wrapped up Trimester One in early November and took a special trip to Coal City High School to watch the middle school musical production of Elf Jr., which was a delightful experience for all and a great beginning to the Holiday season.
• To end the month, we celebrated Thanksgiving with themed activities and transformed our hallways into a magical Winter Wonderland, spreading joy and cheer throughout the ECC to prepare for December at the ECC!
• Here's to a wonderful November and an exciting December ahead!
Recognition:
• A huge thank you to Tracy, Kristina, and Emily for sorting and packaging all the Scholastic teacher orders to ensure they’re ready for delivery! Your hard work and attention to detail are truly appreciated.
• To the entire ECC staff—thank you for always stepping up, being flexible with coverage, and adapting to schedule changes with grace. Your teamwork makes everything possible! • Special thanks as well to our grade-level teams for coming together to transform the ECC into a Winter Wonderland for our students during this magical time of the year. Your creativity and collaboration bring joy and wonder to all!
B. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Trotter reported:
Calendar of Events:
December 6th - Madrigal Visit
December 11th – Early Dismissal at 11:45 a.m.
December 19th - Santa’s Workshop
December 20th - Early Dismissal at 11:45 a.m.
December 23rd - January 3rd: Winter Break
ES Enrollment:
2nd Grade: 141 students
3rd Grade: 162 students
5th Grade (SpEd) 5 students
Total: 308 (enrolled as of 11/22/2024)
CCES Happenings and Recognitions:
● We welcomed the Intermediate Students and Staff into the Elementary School. The hallways have been quite a bit busier but there have only been a few glitches that we are slowly working through.
● The first trimester ended in November.
● Our students were invited to the Middle School musical, Elf, Jr.
● I want to thank the Elementary School staff for making our friends from the Intermediate School feel so welcome during this transition. They have had to completely readjust their routines and have remained positive and supportive throughout the entire process.
C. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Carlson reported:
Calendar Events:
12/2 - 5th Grade Middle School Wrestling Begins at CCMS
12/2 - A Team 3:05 p.m.
12/2 -12/13 District Toy Drive
12/3 - PBS Meeting 3:05 p.m.
12/4 - Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.
12/4 - Team Meetings 3:05 p.m.
12/5 - Support Staff/Aide Meeting 3:05 p.m.
12/5 - 5th Grade Band Concert 7:00 p.m. at CCHS
12/6 - Madrigals Assembly 2:10 p.m. - 2:40 p.m.
12/9 - SpEd Team Meeting 3:05 p.m.
12/10 - TALC Meeting 3:05 p.m.
12/11 - 11:35 Dismissal
12/12 - Lockdown Drill 10:30 a.m.
12/12 - CPI Team 3:05 p.m.
12/16 - 12/18 Cocoa for a Cause during Recess
12/16 - SAP Meeting 3:05 p.m.
12/17 - School Store 7:40 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.
12/17 - PBS Meeting 3:05 p.m.
12/18 - Student Council 7:30 a.m.
12/18 - Santa's Workshop During PE
12/18 - Building Leadership Team Meeting 3:05 p.m.
12/20 - 11:35 Dismissal
12/20 - PBS Dashing Through the Halls 10:15 - 11:15 a.m.
12/21 - 1/5 - No School ~ Winter Break
1/6 - No School ~ Teacher Institute
1/7 - School Resumes
Current Enrollment:
4th Grade 156
5th Grade 138
Total: 294 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; 10/25/24
Shelter-in-Place/Storm 8/22/24
Lockdown/Armed Intruder 8/23/24; 10/7/24
Previous Month in Review:
• November was a whirlwind as we settled in at CCES. Academically, pretty much everything stayed the same except for Specials. Art and Music are on a cart, and Mrs. Bajt and Miss Ternes push into the classrooms. Three PE classes take place at the same time, so Mr. McCleary and Ms. B take turns going outside or using the cafeteria from 1:10-2:50 while the other one uses the gym.
• Unfortunately, we had to cancel several events in November due to a lack of space and/or parking. Hopefully we will be able to reschedule these events: Erin's Law assembly by Guardian Angel, 5th Grade Cupcake Launch, VFW St. Juvin Post 1336 assembly on the history of the American Flag, and Grandparents Week.
• Mrs. Vignocchi is working with the Coal City Public Library, so our students can still get library books once a week.
• On November 7th we opened the school store with the help of Mrs. Vignocchi and our Student Council volunteers.
• Mrs. Vignocchi organized and planned a Scholastic Book Fair November 12-14. Students were happy to purchase books and posters. Betsy Stahler and Colette Kirby volunteered at the Book Fair.
• CCIS celebrated World Kindness Day on Wednesday, November 13th by wearing blue shirts and encouraging others to perform random acts of kindness.
• We walked to CCHS on 11/15 to see part of the middle school musical, "Elf”.
• We currently have 20 students in ASAP (After School Assistance Program); 14 students in 4th grade and 6 students in 5th grade. Recommended students receive homework help from 3:00-4:00 three days a week from Mrs. Cowherd, Mrs. Drinkwine, or Mrs. Rink.
• We held the following Spirit Days this past month: Flannel Day, Fleece Day, Favorite Athlete Day, Fall Colors Day and Thanksgiving Shirt Day.
• Every Friday was Coaler Spirit Day.
Student Recognition:
• Congratulations to the following Students of the Week:
Week of 11/4: Arianna Hernandez, Elliot Olson, Addie Bitner, Blaine Poeschel
Week of 11/12: Charlie Raddatz, Addi McCann, Morgan Mutz, Jason Xu
Week of 11/18: Avalynn Hester, Chris Guerrero, Lillian Kubina, Aaron Evans, Camryn Farrell, Andrew Colegrove
• Congratulations to this year’s CCIS T-shirt Design Contest winner, Sylvia Leman.
• Congratulations to our Fall-theme coloring contest winners.
4th Grade: Logan Ingalls, Blaine Poeschel, Emma Hansen
5th Grade: Hazel D'Arcy, Chloe Ragland, Blake Bolyn
• Congratulations to our Gratitude Month winners:
Staff Recognition:
• I would like to thank my custodians Tommy Onsen, Reilly Radomski and Jannell McMullen for all their help packing and moving furniture and books from CCIS to CCES.
• I would like to thank Mr. Spencer and Mr. Smith for working over the weekend when CCIS closed so my staff could continue to pack and move their things to CCES.
• I would like to thank Mrs. Kenney, Mr. Krippel, Mr. Wickiser and Mrs. Christopher for all their help during our transition to CCES.
• I would like to thank Board of Education members Mr. Miller and Mr. Hamilton for bringing my staff food and water on our packing day, 11/1.
• I would like to thank Mr. Stafford for allowing CCIS students and staff to come to CCHS on Halloween.
• I would like to thank Mrs. Trotter and her staff for their warm welcome to CCES.
• I would like to thank the entire CCIS Staff for their countless hours moving to CCES. What they pulled off in 3 days of moving was amazing. I am not surprised, but I am overwhelmed with gratitude for what they accomplished to make sure our students felt at home at CCES.
D. MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Stone reported:
Calendar of Events:
November 27 No School – Thanksgiving Break
November 28 No School – Thanksgiving Break
November 29 No School – Thanksgiving Break
December 11 12:00pm Early Dismissal
December 13 CCMS Christmas Party – 4 p.m.
December 20 Last Day of Student Attendance
December 21 Christmas Break Begins
January 6 Teachers Institute
January 7 First Day of Student Attendance after Christmas
Enrollment Numbers on 11/21
6th Grade 138
7th Grade 157
8th Grade 160
Total 455
Month in Review – November 2024
• On Thursday, October 29th, our 8th grade students were able to attend the Grundy Area Vocational Center’s Career Fair. We had numerous adults, specifically GAVC instructors, that complimented our students and stated that our students were the most well-behaved group all day.
• Coal City students and staff observed Election Day on Tuesday, November 5th.
• Coal City students and staff observed Veterans Day on Monday, November 11th.
• Elf Jr. was an outstanding success and a huge kudos to Mr. Micetich, his entire team, and all of the Coal City High School and Middle School students involved in the production!
• The Coal City Middle School Improvement Team has started to meet and discuss building goals for this year and beyond. For the first exploration year, which will be the 24-25 school year, we will focus on task-oriented changes to make CCMS more improved. Moving forward, we will use data analysis protocols to look for learning gaps in ELA and Math to further improve instruction and assessment at Coal City Middle School.
• We have started to meet as various committees this school year and many of our staff are involved, providing input, and creating systems to further improve CCMS. Committees this year include Attendance, PBS, Hearts and Flowers, and MS101 Curriculum.
• The Coal City Middle School Fall Dance was extremely well attended and was a great night of fun had by all the students. Thank you so much to our CCMS Student Council Sponsors, Pam McMurtrey and Kerry Yedinak for putting on an amazing event for our students.
• Coal City Middle School had an unbelievable turnout for our Grandparents Day event. Our Commons and our Library were full of students with their grandparents. There was not one open parking spot left on our entire campus!
Coal City Middle School Athletics
• CCMS Athletics has concluded all their fall activities and turned the page to our winter athletics. Girls Basketball has started their post seasons and boys’ basketball is in full swing. Wrestling is scheduled to start December 2nd, and this year’s Coaler Invite is set for January 11th. The equipment storage shed has been completed at CCMS and all of our athletic equipment now has a place to call home. CCMS Speech team participated at ICS last weekend and had success in several events. Jenn Endrst has been hired to help staff the CCMS concession stand, and it’s been a smooth process since her addition.
CCMS Girls Basketball
• Andy Leve - 8th grade 14 - 6, IVC Champs
• Keegan Clampitt - 7th Grade Finished with a record of 20-2, IVC Champs
• Brad Schmitt - 6th Grade (Record A Team 7-9 B Team 10-1)
CCMS Boys Basketball
• Josh Quigley 6th grade coach 0-5 A Team 1-4 B Team
• Nick Peters 7th grade coach 1-2 record
• Chard Larson 8th grade coach: 6-0 and ICS Champions
E. HIGH SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Stafford reported:
Calendar of Events:
➔ December 3 - Holiday Band Concert
➔ December 10 - Holiday Chorus Concert
➔ December 13-15 - Madrigals
➔ December 18-20 - First Semester Final Exams
➔ December 21 - Winter Break Begins
Month in Review:
➔ Veterans’ Day Breakfast - CCHS hosted its first Veterans’ Day breakfast on Friday November 8th. Over fifty veterans and their guests attended. The event included breakfast along with performances from the band and chorus. Thank you to student ambassadors and the high school cafeteria staff for making it all happen. The plan is to host this as an annual event.
➔ ICE Articulation Meetings - Coal City High School hosted the conference articulation meetings for Math and English earlier this month. This meeting allows for teachers from all conference schools to get together to talk about best practices and what each of their schools are doing that is successful with students.
Recognition:
➔ Congratulations Varsity Football - Congratulations to the Coal City varsity football program on their 10-3 season that concluded with a 4A semi-final appearance. It was a tremendous season. Thank you to all our seniors for what they have contributed to the program over the last four years.
Current Enrollment:
Freshman: 166
Sophomore: 164
Junior: 177
Senior: 142
Total: 649
Discipline Report:
Vaping - 3
Skipping class - 1
Physical Harassment - 1
Disrespect - 1
F. STUDENT SERVICES REPORT
Director Krippel reported:
Current Special Populations Data
G. CURRICULUM REPORT
Director Kenney reported:
Professional Development:
December 11th will be the final professional learning opportunity for the semester. Teachers will also have time to review assessment data and improve assessments. During the second semester, the teachers will begin reviewing world language materials for adoption for the next school year. Next semester will be devoted to training with our new assessment program, Mastery Manager. We will also be focusing on aligning the curriculum from the top down and in between buildings. Various additional sessions will also be available.
News:
CCHS has applied to award the Seal of Biliteracy and the Seal of Commendation to our students who show proficiency in English and Spanish. The seal is an award showing colleges and employers that a student is proficient in multiple languages. Many colleges and universities will recognize the seal and award the student hours in the foreign language that they are proficient in. This award will be based on ACT scores in the English Language and Reading sections along with AP scores in AP Language and AP Spanish.
We have also submitted three career pathways through the state of Illinois. Thanks to the help of Patty Zuccarello, we submitted these pathways to help reward our students who have chosen a career path and have completed the necessary steps toward that path. These pathways include Accounting, Nursing, Education, and Welding.
H. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Superintendent Spencer reported:
1. Monthly student enrollment figures were available for review.
Superintendent Christopher Spencer provided a summary of the status of the intermediate school. He stated the abatement was completed last Friday, and the air quality test was completed on Monday. Shoring up the trusses will take 14 days. Currently the administration is waiting on design options and estimated cost from the district architects. In January Mr. Spencer plans on conducting a townhall meeting to ask for a committee and community input on the Intermediate School options. At the Joint Annual Conference, the administration spoke with vendors regarding possible mobile classroom, and the Regional Office of
2024 – 2025 Page 120
Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education Meeting Minutes Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Education has approved this as an option for the district. Mr. Spencer reiterated that was a Health Life Safety inspection completed at the Intermediate School in December 2023, and this was an issue that up during that inspection, and it’s believed that an inclement weather event in July with high winds is what caused the damaged that was noticed in August. There will be more to come, as this is not an overnight fix.
DATES TO REMEMBER
December 2nd – ES Yearbook Pictures
December 3rd – High School Band Concert @ 7:00 p.m.
December 5th – 5th & 6th Grade Band Concert
December 10th – High School Choral Concert @ 7:00 p.m.
December 11th – Early Dismissal
December 13th & 14th Madrigals @ 7:00 p.m.
December 15th – Madrigals @ 2:00 p.m.
December 17th – Middle School Band Concert @ 7:00 p.m.
December 18th – 20th - Final Exams
December 18th – Board Study Session of the Whole Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.
December 19th – Middle School Choral Concert @ 7:00 p.m.
December 20th – Early Dismissal/HS end of Semester 1/MS end of 2nd Quarter
December 23rd – January 3rd – Winter Break/No Student Attendance
January 6th – Teacher Institute/No Student Attendance
January 7th – Classes Resume for Students
January 8th - Board Meeting @ 6:00 p.m.
I. GRUNDY AREA VOCATIONAL CENTER REPORT
Mr. Engelhardt reported:
1. Approved the Minutes of the October 24, 2024, Board of Control Meeting.
2. Approved the bills, payroll, and financial reports.
3. Assistant Director Gierke discussed the School Wide Advisory Day coming up on November 13.
4. Assistant Director Gierke discussed the Sophomore Tour Student Totals. Over 700 students attended the tours. Director Copes mentioned the behavior of the sophomores and staff was outstanding.
5. Assistant Director Gierke reviewed the Advisory Day and Counselor Lunch from November where 70 advisory members from the community and industry attended.
6. Assistant Director Gierke provided an update on the Work-based learning process.
7. Assistant Director Gierke updated the Board of Control on JJC AIM/ACE/AET open houses.
8. Director Copes went over the December GAVC calendar.
9. Director Copes discussed the FY26 calendar processes and planning and spent time on holiday and spring break dates.
10. Director Copes discussed a potential timeline and goals for the completion of the GAVC Health Life Safety projects.
11. Approved the lowest responsible bid for property and Casualty Insurance renewal and Workers Compensation renewal.
12. Accepted the resignation of Jordan Bott, Health Occupations Assistant Instructor.
13. Approved Katie Wagner as Health Occupations Assistant Instructor.
14. Approved Assistant Director Gierke to attend the National Career Pathways Network Conference in Austin, Texas in February.
Superintendent Christopher Spencer mentioned that Minooka is looking to upgrade their CTE programs (buildings and culinary arts) and that could reduce the number of students that attend the GAVC program in Morris. This would open the door for students to attend GAVC, but couldn’t due to programs reaching their capacity. There will be additional information to come at future Board meetings.
J. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR REPORT
Athletic Director Boresi reported:
Congratulations to Coach Loughran, the other coaches, the football team, and & the cheerleaders on an outstanding season. The Coalers finished 10-3 and advanced to the semifinals.
Fall Sports Recap
Our updated athletic facilities have been on full display so far this school year. Coal City High School hosting the following events so far this year:
- IHSA 2A Boys Golf Regional
- IHSA 1A Boys Soccer Regional
- IHSA 2A Girls Volleyball Regional
- 3 IHSA 4A State Football Playoff Games
- 2024 Coalers Turkey Tournament (FS & Varsity Boys Basketball)
Winter Sports Update
• Varsity girls’ basketball finished 2nd place in the Comet Classic. They finished with a 3- 1 record. Kylee Kennell & Sydney Larson were named to the all-tournament team.
• Varsity boys’ basketball went 3-1 at the Coalers Thanksgiving Tournament. Dane Noffsinger was named to the all-tournament team.
• Competition Cheer finished 2nd place at the Wilmington Cheer Invite and will compete in the Comet Invite this Saturday, 12/7.
Important Dates:
December 26, 27, 28 VBBKB at Seneca High School Holiday Tournament
December 26, 27, 28, & 30 VGBKB at Lisle Holiday Classic
December 27 & 28 FSGBKB & FSBKB at Coal City Holiday Classic
December 27 & 28 FRBBKB at Morris Freshman Invitational
December 27 & 28 Wrestlers at Abe’s Rumble Dual Tournament at Springfield Capital Convention Center
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 THE 2024 TAX 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 2024 tentative levy was adopted at the November Board meeting. The board adopted the final 2024 Property Tax Levy. The final levy was enclosed for review. The Board of Education and Mr. Spencer thanked Mr. Smith for all his work in preparing the levy.
Mr. Hamilton moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to adopt the 2024 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 | $23,087,305.00 |
| Operations/Maintenance | $5,693,826.00 |
| Transportation | $2,267,131.00 |
| IMRF | $463,826.00 |
| Working Cash | $527,783.00 |
| Social Security | $579,782.00 |
| Special Education | $463,826.00 |
| Life Safety | $579,783.00 |
| Tort | $57,978.00 |
| Leasing | $527,783.00 |
| TOTAL LEVY | $34,249,023.00 |
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Dan Engelhardt, Jeff Emerson, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
B. SECOND READING ON REVISED BOARD POLICIES
The following revised Board Policies have been submitted for review. The first reading took place at the November 6 Board Meeting, this was the second reading. Superintendent Christopher Spencer and the Board Policy Committee will meet soon to discuss the policies in depth. The Board thanked Mrs. Klein and Mr. Rogers for their work on this committee.
| 2:105 | Ethics and Gift Ban |
| 2:110 | Qualifications, Term and Duties of Board Officers |
| 2:120 | Board Member Development |
| 2:140 | Communications To and From the Board |
| 2:250-E2 | Immediately Available District Public Records and Web-Posted Report and Records |
| 3:60-E | Event Reporting and Notice Requirements for Building Principals Concerning School Safety and Security |
| 4:10 | Fiscal and Business Management |
| 4:30 | Revenue and Investments |
| 4:40 | Incurring Debt |
| 4:60 | Purchases and Contracts |
| 4:150 | Facility Management and Building |
| 4:160 | Environmental Quality of Buildings and Grounds |
| 4:170 | Safety |
| 4:170-AP1 | Comprehensive Safety and Security Plan |
| 4:190 | Targeted School Violence Prevention Program |
| 4:190-AP2 | Threat Assessment Team (TAT) |
| 5:10 | Equal Employment Opportunity and Minority Recruitment |
| 5:20 | Workplace Harassment Prohibited |
| 5:30 | Hiring Process and Criteria |
| 5:30-AP2 | Investigations |
| 5:35 | Compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act |
| 5:35-AP1 | Fair Labor Standards Act Exemptions |
| 5:90 | Abused and Neglected Child Reporting |
| 5:120 | Employee Ethics; Code of Professional Conduct; and Conflict of Interest |
| 5:125 | Personal Technology and Social Media; Usage and Conduct |
| 5:150 | Personnel Records |
| 5:150-AP | Personnel Records |
| 5:150-E | Employee Request Form for Personnel Records |
| 5:230 | Maintaining Student Discipline |
| 6:20 | School Year Calendar and Day |
| 6:20-AP | Remote and/or Blended Remote Learning Day Plan(s) |
| 6:60 | Curriculum Content |
| 6:60-AP1 | Comprehensive Health Education Program |
| 6:65 | Student Social and Emotional Development |
| 6:135 | Accelerated Placement Program |
| 6:135-AP | Accelerated Placement Program Procedures |
| 6:270 | Guidance and Counseling Program |
| 6:340 | Student Testing and Assessment Program |
| 7:10 | Equal Educational Opportunities |
| 7:100 | Health, Eye, and Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students |
| 7:160 | Student Appearance |
| 7:165 | School Uniforms |
| 7:180 | Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation, and Harassment |
| 7:190-AP1 | Student Handbook-Hazing Prohibited |
| 7:190-AP4 | Use of Isolated Time-Out, Time-Out, and Physical Restraint |
| 7:190-AP7 | Student Discipline Guidelines |
| 7:190-AP8 | Student ReEngagement Guidelines |
| 7:190-E2 | Student Handbook Checklist |
| 7:200 | Suspension Procedures |
| 7:200-E3 | Long Term Out-of-School Suspension (4-10 Day) Reporting Form |
| 7:340-AP1 | School Student Records |
| 8:10 | Connection with the Community |
Superintendent Christopher Spencer provided the Board with an update on the Facilities Improvement Plan. The 40ft flagpole has been installed, the concession stand at the middle school has been winterized, and the 6 – 12 furniture and plumbing that was to take place the summer of 2025 will be put on hold for now until a solution for the intermediate school has been identified.
D. DISCUSSION ON FY26 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 will discuss the draft 2025 – 2026 School Calendar. Superintendent Christopher Spencer made some minor adjustments from feedback received from administration and Union leadership. The calendar is almost complete and will be presented at the February or March Board meeting for action.
NEW BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION ON 2024 STANDARDIZED TEST SCORES AND SUMMATIVE DESIGNATIONS
State and federal laws require public school districts to release report cards to the public each year. Every school’s report card will include a summative designation, a descriptor of how well the school is meeting the needs of all students. Director of Curriculum and Instruction Jennifer Kenney provided the Board of Education with a review of the standardized test scores and designations received from the State. Congratulations to the Elementary School and Intermediate School on earning an Exemplary rating and the Early Childhood Center, Middle School, and High School for earning a Commendable rating. Mrs. Kenney also provided graphs of where CCCUSD1 ranked amongst surrounding districts.
B. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPOINTMENT OF DISTRICT’S FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT OFFICER
The Freedom of Information Act, Public Act 096-0542, states that “The General Assembly herby declares that it is the public policy of the State of Illinois that access by all persons to public records promotes the transparency and accountability of public bodies at all levels of government. It is a fundamental obligation of government to operate openly and provide public records as expediently and efficiently as possible in compliance with the Act.” It is a requirement of this act to appoint a FOIA officer.
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mrs. Klein seconded to appoint Jason Smith as the Freedom of Information Act Officer and Open Meetings Act Officer for Coal City Community Unit School District #1 for calendar year 2025.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Jeff Emerson, Dan Engelhardt, Shawn Hamilton, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
OPEN FOR ITEMS NOT KNOWN AT AGENDA PREPARATION TIME
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
1. In regard to agenda items – none.
2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – A community member in attendance asked if the district has insurance.
CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Engelhardt moved, and Mr. Hamilton seconded to go to closed session at 7:17 p.m. for the purpose of considering information regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees, and collective bargaining matters.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Shawn Hamilton, Jeff Emerson, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
Mr. Engelhardt moved, and Mr. Harmon seconded to return to open session at 7:37 p.m.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Quint Harmon, Jeff Emerson, Shawn Hamilton, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
BOARD STUDY SESSION OF THE WHOLE DATE:DECEMBER 18, 2024 @ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: JANUARY 8, 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 7:38 p.m. President Miller asked if there was any opposition to the motion, hearing none considers the motion approved.
https://4.files.edl.io/860a/01/10/25/214948-48a44ad0-7a35-4f1e-9376-267cceb60cc1.pdf
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