Mr. Chris Spencer - Superintendent | Coal City Community Unit School District #1
Mr. Chris Spencer - Superintendent | Coal City Community Unit School District #1
Coal City Community Unit School District #1 Board of Education met Jan. 8.
Here are the minutes provided by the board:
CALL TO ORDER
President Miller called the regular meeting to order at 6:01 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.
NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Introduction/acknowledgement of guests. – none.
2. Superintendent Christopher Spencer recognized the following staff members on their National Board Maintenance of Certification. Those staff member are Angie Phillips and Tricia Togliatti. Mr. Spencer thanked their National Board local facilitator, Pam Vigna, for leading these teachers through this rewarding and reflective professional development experience. Ms. Phillips and Ms. Togliatti are the first teachers in the district to complete the National Board Maintenance Certification process. There are several teachers within the district currently going through this process.
Board President Miller presented the Elementary School Principal, Mrs. Trotter and the Early Childhood Center Principal, Mrs. Davidson with certificates from
3. Thank you – A thank you note was received from Donna Kaplan & Family for the floral arrangement sent by the Board of Education and District Office. Secretary Pro Tempore, Quint Harmon read the card aloud.
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 Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the consent agenda.
MINUTES
December 4, 2024 - Regular Meeting
CLOSED SESSION MINUTES
December 4, 2024 - Regular Meeting
FINANCIAL REPORTS
Activity Fund Reports – November 2024
Treasurer’s Report – November 2024
Monthly Manual Check Report – December 2024
Payroll Report – December 2024
Accounts Payable Report – January 2025
PERSONNEL
Resignations
• Melissa George – Special Education/PATH Teacher at the High School – Mrs. George’s position will end at the conclusion of the 24 – 25 school year.
• Matthew Murphy – Maintenance worker for the District – Mr. Murphy’s last day was December 31, 2024.
• Kali Roed – full-time Classroom Aide – Early Childhood Center – Ms. Roed’s last day was December 20, 2024.
• Tricia Smith – 1:1 Special Ed. Aide at the Elementary School – Mrs. Smith’s last day will be Friday, January 10, 2025.
Employments - pending satisfactory completion of all state requirements
• Sheryl Strle – full-time Classroom Aide at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Strle’s anticipated start date is January 7, 2025.
Extra-Curricular Assignments
Athletic Director Brad Boresi is recommending the following for volunteer coaching positions:
Zach Berman – Volunteer High School Wrestling Coach
Joey Breneman – Volunteer High School Wrestling Coach
Jake Masters – Volunteer High School Wrestling Coach
Ryan Masters – Volunteer High School Wrestling Coach
Bob McGuinn – Volunteer High School Wrestling Coach
Nick O’Bert – Volunteer High School Wrestling Coach
Job Description:
• CSBO
Roll Call.
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Quint Harmon, Jeff Emerson, Shawn Hamilton, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller Nays:
Motion: Carried.
ADMINISTRATORS' REPORTS
A. EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER REPORT
Principal Davidson Reported:
Calendar of Events:
December 21st - January 5th - Winter Break
January 6th - Teacher’s Institute
January 7th - Students return
January 8th - A Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 9th - Staff Culture Committee Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 13th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 14th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 20th - NO SCHOOL
January 21st - Specials Team Meeting @ 11:40 a.m.
January 21st - CPI Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 23rd - PBS Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 27th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 27th - Custodian Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 27th - Support Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 28th - Kindergarten Team Meeting @ 11:20 a.m.
January 28th - 1st Grade Team Meeting @ 12:10 p.m.
January 28th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
January 29th - Preschool Team Meeting @ 10:45 a.m.
January 29th - Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
Current ECC Enrollment for 2024-2025:
PreK: 180
Kindergarten: 143
1st Grade: 151
Total: 474 (in PowerSchool as of December 19th, 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:
December was a truly magical month at the ECC, filled with joy, creativity, and special moments for our students and families. Here are some highlights from this festive time:
A Magical Transformation: The ECC building was transformed into a holiday wonderland, bringing a sense of magic and excitement to the hallways. Staff worked tirelessly to create a warm and festive atmosphere that captured the spirit of the season and brought smiles to everyone who entered.
Parent Engagement Night: Our preschool families joined us for a memorable Parent Engagement Night, where students and their loved ones decorated Christmas cookies together. It was a wonderful opportunity to strengthen our school-family connections and share in the holiday cheer.
Visit and Performance by the CCHS Madrigals: We were delighted to host the Coal City High School Madrigals for a special visit and performance. Their beautiful voices and festive songs filled the ECC with holiday spirit, creating an unforgettable experience for our students.
Early Dismissal Fun: Students had the chance to attend the CCHS Musical Theater's Winter Wonderland during an early dismissal day. This event added an extra layer of holiday magic, as students enjoyed the creativity and talent of our high school performers.
Holiday Dress-Up Themes: Throughout the month, students and staff participated in fun holiday-themed dress-up days. From festive sweaters to holiday hats, these themes added excitement and brought everyone together in the spirit of the season.
Holiday Parties and Dance Party: We wrapped up the month with joyful holiday classroom parties, where students celebrated with their classmates and teachers. The celebration continued with a lively holiday dance party just before our early dismissal for Winter Break, sending everyone off with smiles and festive cheer. Thank you to our incredible ECC staff, students, and families for making December so special. We look forward to continuing this positive energy into the new year!
Recognition:
A heartfelt thank you to all ECC staff for helping make another Santa's Workshop a success! Your hard work and dedication truly shine during events like this. Special thanks to Branden Petersen and Nikki Planeta for their flexibility with the gym space for shopping—it was greatly appreciated. Together, we made this event memorable for our students!
A huge thank you to the entire ECC staff for transforming our school into a magical place for the students throughout December! Your creativity, effort, and holiday spirit brought so much joy and wonder to the halls of ECC, making this month truly unforgettable for our students.
B. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Trotter reported:
Calendar of Events:
December 23rd - January 3rd - Winter Break
January 6th - Teacher Institute Day
January 7th - Students Return
January 20th - No School - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
ES Enrollment:
2nd Grade: 142 students
3rd Grade: 162 students
5th Grade (SpEd) 5 students
Total: 309 (enrolled as of 12/20/2024)
CCES Happenings and Recognitions:
● December is always an amazing time at CCES. The students and staff participated in many fun spirit days - Grinch Day, Elf Day, Sparkle Day, etc.
● The students enjoyed searching for the school Elf every day. The ES Elf, Candy Cane took on double duty while the IS Elf, Shingle McCringle was out with a sprained ankle.
● The Madrigals performed for us on December 6th.
● We had a student, Emma Stukel, that was awarded a new laptop through the Vista Learning Computers 2 Kids Giveaway Program. She received her computer at the Regional Office on December 11th.
● Many students made Christmas Cards for residents of area nursing homes.
● The Grinch and The Polar Express Conductor stopped by the last week of school before break.
● Our students enjoyed shopping for their family members at Santa’s Workshop. We had 7 vendors and a great deal of items, everything from bookmarks to crocheted animals to candle globes and journals and everything in between, that cost anywhere from $1 to $5.
● The students played Reindeer Games (Minute to Win It) and celebrated the holidays with classroom parties on December 20th.
● Thanks to the ES staff for making the Elementary School so festive during the holiday season.
C. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Carlson reported:
Calendar of Events:
1/1-1/5 No School ~ Winter Break
1/6 No School ~ Teacher’s Institute
1/7 School Resumes with NEW time for 2nd-5th graders 8:05 a.m. - 2:55 p.m.
1/9 Support Staff/Aide Meeting 3:05 p.m.
1/13 A Team Meeting 3:05 p.m.
1/14 TALC Meeting 3:05 p.m.
1/15 Team Meetings 3:05 p.m.
1/17 Shelter-in-Place/Storm Drill 2:35 p.m.
1/20 No School ~ Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
1/21-1/31 FastBridge Winter Benchmarking
1/21 PBS Meeting 3:05 p.m.
1/22 Assessment Reviews 3:05 p.m.
1/23 CPI Team Meeting 3:05 p.m.
1/27 SpEd Team Meeting 3:05 p.m.
1/28 TALC Meeting 3:05 p.m.
1/29 BLT Meeting 3:05 p.m.
1/29 Girls Dance Party (Daddy-Daughter Dance) 6:00 p.m.- 7:30 p.m.
1/30 Boys Dance Party (Mother-Son Dance) 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
1/30 Custodian Meeting 3:05 p.m.
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; 10/25/24
Shelter-in-Place/Storm 8/22/24; 12/17/24
Lockdown/Armed Intruder 8/23/24; 10/7/24; 12/13/24
Previous Month in Review:
• CCIS participated in the school district’s Toy Drive from 12/2-12/13. All toys were donated to Toys for Tots.
• IESA wrestling practice began on December 2nd. We currently have 14 fifth grade students on the CCMS wrestling team.
• Our first Beginning Band concert was held on December 5th at CCHS under the direction of Mr. Andrew Brimm. Our 45 fifth grade students did an excellent job.
• On December 6th the CCHS Madrigals came to CCES to sing for our students at the end of the school day. All four grade levels fit in the gym for the assembly.
• Mrs. Rink’s class sold hot chocolate during recess from 12/16-12/18. We raised roughly $800 for Cocoa for a Cause, of which $200 went to a local family in need and $600 will be donated to Megan’s Mission.
• We practiced a Lockdown Drill on 12/13. This was our first lockdown drill since we moved to CCES. It went very well.
• We practiced a Storm Drill on 12/17. This was our first storm drill since we moved to CCES. There were some overlapping sheltering locations, so we are revising our maps, and we will practice again on January 17th.
• On 12/18 Santa’s Workshop came to CCES during our 4th & 5th grade PE classes. Students were able to shop for their family, and they absolutely loved it. Items cost from $0.25 - $5.00.
• Our second PBS (Positive Behavior System) event was held on 12/20, and it was so much fun! Eligible students played Dashing Through the Halls in search of mini candy canes and random holiday decorations as they competed against the other homerooms. We safely planned the event to avoid any conflicts with the CCES students.
• We currently have 21 students in ASAP (After School Assistance Program); 15 students in 4th grade and 6 students in 5th grade. Recommended students receive homework help from 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. three days a week from Mrs. Cowherd, Mrs. Drinkwine, or Mrs. Rink.
• Every day in December was a spirit/dress up day. We had a ton of student and staff participation for Warm & Fuzzy, Holiday Character, Hawaiian Holiday, Holiday Socks, Candy Cane, Green, Plaid, Red, Ugly Holiday Sweater, Grinch, Twinkle, Elf, Holiday Pajamas, Holiday Hat and Coalers Holiday Day.
Student Recognition:
• Congratulations to following Students of the Week:
Week of 12/2: Charlotte Gagliardo, Oliver Edmonds, Sophie Artega, Jordy Hossack Week of 12/9: Brady Manering, Chloe Ragland, Vivian Dunbar, Michael Thetard Week of 12/16: Nick Agamy, Alex Jeschke, Jonavan Shats, Vivian Hannon
• Congratulations to our Productivity Month winners.
Layla Hunnings Allisson Nava Brady Loughran Chloe Ragland Maclin March Emmy Hall Skylar Crist Brayden Plata Sophie Arteaga Logan Frese Slater Hill Kylie Wynn Braxton Boresi Drake Figge Leo Christensen Brady Shaw Bruce Decker Emma Johnson Sylvia Leman Keagan Douglas Cheyenne Boniecki Faye Thompson Silas Viggiani Dylan Perino Sadie Jones William Zimmer Eddie Gergits Skylar Cardosi Cienna Morales Addilyn Janczak Liam Jones Aubree Becker
• Congratulations to our Winter-theme coloring contest winners.
4th grade: Veronica Pershey, Aaron Evans, Brynlee Garner
5th grade: Scarlett Knutson, Aubrey Roach, Miah Farley
• Congratulations to leader board winners for having the most completed proficient IXL reading minutes over the past month.
Colin Muhlenbruch Brady Shaw Beckett Pfeifer
Bruce Decker Evan Olson Haley Seaward
Staff Recognition:
• I want to thank and recognize Mrs. Bajt for organizing the CCIS Secret Santa for our staff.
• I want to thank and recognize Mr. McCleary for overseeing Santa’s Workshop and for helping to wrap the gifts that the students purchased.
• I want to thank and recognize Mrs. Rink for organizing Cocoa for a Cause. • I want to thank and recognize Mr. McCleary for organizing our PBS event, Dashing Through the Halls.
D. MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Stone reported:
Calendar of Events:
January 6 - Teachers Institute
January 7 - First Day of Student Attendance after Christmas
January 11 - Coaler MS Wrestling Invite – @ CCHS
January 20 - No School – Martin Luther King’s Birthday
January 21 - Winter Fastbridge Testing – ELA/Math
Enrollment Numbers on 12/23:
6th Grade 140
7th Grade 157
8th Grade 160
Total: 457
Month in Review – December 2024:
- Coal City Middle School staff participated in professional development on Wednesday, December 11th.
- Our 5th/6th grade band concert was held on Thursday, December 5th. Our 7th/8th grade jazz band and concert band concert was held on Tuesday, December 17th. All the performances were incredibly successful and huge shoutout to Mr. Brimm and all he does for our band students.
- Our CCMS Choral concert was held on Thursday, December 19th. Another huge shout out to Mr. Kren and all that he does for our choir students. Another kudos goes to Jackson Hollis, a CCMS 8th grader, for being selected to the inaugural All State Jr. Choir through the Illinois Music Education Association.
- Coal City CUSD #1 ran a Toys for Tots drive for two weeks in December. Mr. Monbrum and I delivered six large boxes of toys to our local Toys for Tots contact. Thank you to everyone who contributed!
- Coal City Middle School staff had a great time at our Holiday Party on Friday, December 13th at Babe’s Tap. It was great to have most of our faculty and staff together in a setting outside of school.
- Coal City Middle School concluded the 2nd quarter on Friday, December 20th and students will return to the 3rd quarter on Tuesday, January 6th.
Coal City Middle School Athletics
CCMS Athletics has concluded girls’ basketball and turned the page to boys’ basketball, wrestling, and volleyball. 6th grade boys’ basketball has concluded, and the 7th and 8th grade teams are approaching their postseason. Wrestling kicked off with a victory over Limestone and had 8 place finishers at the Homer tournament. Volleyball has been practicing for a month and opens their seasons once we return from the holiday break. Our concession stand has been staffed with people signed up through Jenn Endrst and she has done a fantastic job!
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 3-15 A Team 5-8 B Team
Nick Peters 7th grade coach 6-9 record
Chard Larson 8th grade coach: 14-1 (loss to Minooka) and ICS Champions
Volleyball
M. Painter - 6th Grade Coach
G. Horrie - 7th Grade Coach
P. McMurtrey - 8th Grade Coach
Wrestling
Head Coach Joey Rivera 1-0 in Duals, 8 placers and finished 5th at Homer Thank you for your continued support of CCMS Athletics!
E. HIGH SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Stafford reported:
Calendar of Events:
➔ January 7 - First day of second semester
➔ January 9 - 14 - Erin’s Law presentations during CCT
➔ January 16 - 25-26 course selection begins
Month in Review:
➔ Holiday Events @ CCHS - The holiday season brought out the annual band and chorus concerts along with three performances by the CCHS Madrigals. Students did a fantastic job with their performances and getting the community in the holiday spirit.
Recognition:
➔ FBLA - Coal City High School’s chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America attended the Central Northern Area Conference at Joliet Junior College on Friday, December 13th. As a chapter, Coal City had 17 members compete in different events consisting of tests, presentations, and interviews. Coal City had 14 members earn a first or second place finish that secured them a spot in the state FBLA competition in spring 2025.
Earning first place were Grace Sitar, Introduction to Event Planning; Corinna Barkley and Lilly Feisley, Public Service Announcement; Mason Hamilton and Gaven Vestal, Sports and Entertainment Management, and Kylee Kennell and Payton Gibson, Sales Presentation. Earning second place were Jessie Henke, Agribusiness; Emerson Koehn,
Adalyn Muhlenbruch, and Rese Symons, Introduction to Business Presentation, and Hayden Kennell, Fuzzy Hamilton and Patrick Osipavicius, Introduction to Social Media Strategy. Hunter Pedigo competed in Job Interview and finished in third place. Special mention goes out to Mason Hamilton and Hunter Pedigo for participating in the Battle of the Chapters.
➔ Students of the Month - On December 13th, CCHS recognized the “students of the month” at a recognition breakfast. Each staff member had the opportunity to recognize one student for having a great semester. Fifty students and fifty staff members attended the breakfast. Students each received a certificate and gift card. There was also a raffle for students in attendance as another way to show appreciation for all their hard work throughout the year.
➔ ILMEA All-State Choir - Coal City’s vocal and instrumental musicians participated in the Illinois Music Education Association’s District 1 events. District 1, composed of school’s from across the Chicagoland area, is considered one of the most competitive districts in the state. Six Coal City High School vocal students—Austin Harding, Logan Hausman, Melody Kinder, Mason Natyshok, Olivia Sage and Martin Ramirez—were selected to participate in the District 1 Choir in November, and two high school instrumental students—Mackenzie Messina and Sam Vota—were selected to the District 1 band. Melody Kinder, Mason Natyshok, and Martin Ramirez were selected to the All State Choir and participated in the All-State Concerts on February 1st in Peoria. Congratulations to these students on their accomplishments.
Current Enrollment:
Freshman: 167
Sophomore: 165
Junior: 175
Senior: 141
Total: 648
Discipline Report:
Inappropriate Behavior in the Cafeteria - 1
Vaping - 6
Theft - 1
F. STUDENT SERVICES REPORT
Director Krippel reported:
Current Special Populations Data
| Coal City Schools IEP Data | |||||
| ECC | ES | IS | MS | HS | District |
| 167 | 61 | 39 | 57 | 66 | 386 |
| +3 | +1 | 390 | |||
| Coal City Schools 504 Data | |||||
| ECC | ES | IS | MS | HS | Total |
| 1 | 5 | 16 | 43 | 61 | 126 |
| +2 | +1 | +3 | |||
| Coaler Academy Data | ||||
| Full Time | Hybrid | Intervention | Total Students | Pending Referrals |
| 11 | 5 | 0 | 16 | TBD |
| Out of District Placements | |||
Oswego SD308 | Guiding Light | High Road | Total Students |
| 1 | 1 | 7 | 9 |
| Preschool for All Grant (PFA) | |
| Current Students | Current Students |
| 107 | 13 |
| Overall Preschool Numbers | ||||
| Current Students | EP Openings | At-Risk Openings | Tuition Preschool | Waitlist |
| 184/210 | 16 | 10 | 7/12 | 0 |
Director Kenney reported:
Professional Development:
January 6th will be a teacher institute day for professional development. Sessions will focus on Mastery Manager training and special education laws for both special education teachers and non-special education teachers. We will also begin our vertical curriculum planning meetings. Mr. Spencer will provide opening remarks and set the tone for the 2nd half of the school year.
Standardized Testing:
State testing will begin in March. The testing will be as follows:
IAR (ES) - Week of March 17th or Week of April 7th
IAR (IS) - Week of March 17th or Week of April 7th
IAR (MS) - Week of April 7th
PreACT/ACT (HS) - April 8th
ISA (ES) -
ISA (IS) -
ISA (MS) - March 18th
IAR - Illinois Assessment of Readiness
ISA - Illinois Science Assessment
H. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Superintendent Spencer reported:
1. Mr. Spencer will provide the Board with an update on the Intermediate School.
2. Monthly student enrollment figures
DATES TO REMEMBER
December 23 - January 3 – Winter Break/No Student Attendance
January 6 – Teacher’s Institute/No Student Attendance
January 7 – Classes Resume
January 20 – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday/No Student Attendance
January 29 – Board Study Session @ 6:00 p.m.
I. GRUNDY AREA VOCATIONAL CENTER REPORT
Mr. Engelhardt reported:
1. Approved the Minutes of the November 25, 2024, Board of Control Meeting.
2. Approved the bills, payroll, and financial reports.
3. Assistant Director Gierke discussed the up-and-coming enrollment and registration process.
4. Assistant Director Gierke informed the Board of Control that Automotive had been approved for dual credit next year.
5. Assistant Director Gierke provided an update on the Work-based learning process.
6. Assistant Director Gierke updated the Board of Control with a list of Pathway submissions from our local high schools.
7. Assistant Director Gierke shared the first draft of the schedule for FY26.
8. Dean of Students Sampson updated the Board of Control on discipline and attendance from the first semester.
9. Dean of Students Sampson reported that over 30 Early Bird students maintained perfect attendance for the first semester, so Mr. Copes and Mr. Sampson made them breakfast.
10. Dean of Students Sampson informed the Board of Control that GAVC Scholarship opportunities will be released by the end of January.
11. Dean of Students Sampson informed the Board of Control that 18 students are currently registered for SkillsUSA.
12. Director Copes went over the January GAVC calendar.
13. Director Copes provided an update on Project House 27.
14. Director Copes provided an update on the FY26 calendar processes.
15. Director Copes updated the Board of Control on the Summer Internship program.
16. Director Copes updated the Board of Control on the progress of the search for a new EFE Director for Three Rivers Education for Employment Systems.
17. Director Copes updated the Board of Control on the status of the JJC Westward Expansion.
18. Director Copes discussed a potential timeline for the GAVC Health Life Safety projects.
19. Director Copes provided the Board of Control with an overview of the past calendar year and an update regarding the upcoming year.
20. Approved Director Copes to pay any remaining bills for December.
J. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR REPORT
Athletic Director Boresi reported:
Varsity Wrestling
- Downers Grove South Dual Team Tournament Champions
- 3rd Place - Abe’s Rumble
- Senior Night - January 9th
Boys Basketball
- 3rd Place - Seneca Shipyard Showdown
- Gabe McHugh All-Tournament Team Selection
- Current Record 10-3
Girls Basketball
- Lisle Cage Holiday Classic Consolation Champions
- Current Record 10-5
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 BOARD POLICIES
The following revised Board Policies were submitted for review. The first reading took place on November 6, the second reading was on December 4, and this the third and final reading. The School Board Policy Committee met, reviewed, and discussed the policy revisions. Their recommendation was for the Board to approve the revised district polices as presented.
| 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 |
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Jeff Emerson, Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
B. DISCUSSION ON FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Superintendent Christopher Spencer updated the Board on the Facilities Improvement Plan. The flagpole has finally been installed, the baseball diamond was the wrong color, and that should be corrected soon, and one of the bases on the softball field needs to be a double base and is currently a single base. Due to the renovation that needs to take place at the Intermediate School, the capital projects slated to take place over the summer of FY25, are on hold for now.
NEW BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND CCCUEA/IEA/NEA TEACHER’S UNION
Superintendent Christopher Spencer discussed the Memorandum of Understanding between the Board of Education and the CCCUEA/IEA/NEA Teacher’s Union. This MOU is in place for granting the Intermediate Staff the day off on January 6, 2025, the administration received a thank you from the staff at that building. This MOU agreement has been entered into on a non-precedent setting basis and is not intended and does not establish a past practice between them.
Mr. Hamilton moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to approve the Memorandum of Understanding between the Board of Education and the CCCUEA/IEA/NEA Teacher’s Union as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Shawn Hamilton, Dan Engelhardt, Jeff Emerson, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
B. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON THE GRUNDY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
The district received a request from the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce to renew the annual membership. District #1 has been a long-time member of this organization.
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to approve payment of the annual membership fee of $290 to the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Dan Engelhardt, Jeff Emerson, Shawn Hamilton, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
C. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVING THE RENEWAL OF THE THREE RIVERS EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP MEMBERSHIP
Annual dues for membership in the Three Rivers Education Partnership from December 1, 2024, through November 30, 2025, were ready for renewal. This organization provides programs that address the critical issues facing education and the belief that educational opportunities are imperative for preparing today’s youth to be tomorrow’s leaders.
Mr. Rogers moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to approve the membership renewal in the Three Rivers Education Partnership, for 2024-2025, in the amount of $750.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Steve Rogers, Dan Engelhardt, Jeff Emerson, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
D. DISCUSSION ON SCHOOL MAINTENANCE PROJECT GRANT
CSBO Jason Smith discussed the School Maintenance Project Grant application to receive $50,000. If the district is awarded the grant funds, these funds will go towards the needed repairs at the Intermediate School.
E. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON GEDC MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
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. The Board approved this membership renewal.
Mrs. Klein moved, and Mr. Rogers seconded to approve payment of the annual membership fee of $300 to the Grundy Economic Development Council.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Jeff Emerson, Dan Engelhardt, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
OPEN FOR ITEMS NOT KNOWN AT AGENDA PREPARATION TIME
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
1. In regard to agenda items – none.
2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – none.
CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to go to closed session at 6:28 p.m. for the purpose of considering information regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, an individual student issue, and pending litigation.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Dan Engelhardt, Jeff Emerson, Shawn Hamilton, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
Mr. Engelhardt moved, and Mr. Rogers seconded to return to open session at 8:00 p.m.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Steve Rogers, Jeff Emerson, Shawn Hamilton, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller
Nays:
Motion: Carried.
BOARD STUDY SESSION OF THE WHOLE DATE: JANUARY 29, 2025 @ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: FEBRUARY 5, 2025@ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
Superintendent Christopher Spencer asked the Board about possibly moving the Board Study Session of the Whole meeting date from January 29, 2025, to January 27, 2025, due to attending a conference in Springfield.
ADJOURNMENT
Mrs. Klein moved, and Mr. Hamilton seconded to adjourn the meeting at 8:04 p.m. President Miller asked if there was any opposition to the motion, hearing none considers the motion approved.
https://4.files.edl.io/36e6/02/06/25/194124-21e080f0-dabe-4fec-b82c-c1ae16064847.pdf
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