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 March 5.
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: Dan Engelhardt, 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. Board Member Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton were absent.
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. Principal – none.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
1. In regard to agenda items – none.
2. In general (Limited to 5 minutes per person.) – non.
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
February 5, 2025 - Regular Meeting
February 26, 2025 - Board Study Session
CLOSED SESSION MINUTES
February 5, 2025 - Regular Meeting
February 26, 2025 - Board Study Session
FINANCIAL REPORTS
Activity Fund Reports – January 2025
Treasurer’s Report – January 2025
Monthly Manual Check Report – February 2025
Payroll Report – February 2025
Accounts Payable Report – March 2025
PERSONNEL
Resignations
• Mikayla Lange – Special Ed. Teacher/Self-Contained at the Middle School – Ms. Lange’s last day will be May 29, 2025, which is the last contractual day for certified staff.
• Kenneth Litchfield – Custodian at the Early Childhood Center – Mr. Litchfield’s last day was Thursday, February 6, 2025.
Employments – pending satisfactory completion of all state requirements
• Madilyn Barajas – Custodian at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Barajas’ anticipated start date was February 26, 2025. Ms. Barajas is replacing Mr. Litchfield.
• Brianne Clavenna – Kindergarten Teacher at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Clavenna will start for the 25 – 26 school year, and she is replacing Mr. Painter, who retires at the conclusion of the 24 – 25 school year.
• Emily Cloe – 1:1 Special Education Aide at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Cloe’s anticipated start date was February 17, 2025. Ms. Cloe is replacing Ms. Roed.
• Brian Elms – Custodian for the District – Mr. Elm’s anticipated start date was February 26, 2025. Mr. Elms is replacing Ms. Burba.
• Hannah Shirkey – Pre-School Teacher at the Early Childhood Center – Ms. Shirkey’s anticipated start date is August 11, 2025.
• Nicole Zralka – Fine Arts Teacher at the High School – Mr. Zralka’s anticipated start date is August 11, 2025.
Extra-Curricular Resignations
• Chad Larson – Middle School Boys
• Joel Micetich – Assistant Varsity
• Emily Trafton (Halliday) – Sophomore Volleyball Coach & Sophomore Girls Basketball Coach
Extra-Curricular Assignments
Athletic Director, Brad Boresi is recommending the following for coaching and volunteering positions within the district:
Coaches:
• Ashton Harvey – Freshmen Baseball Coach
• Nolan Berger – Freshmen Baseball Coach
• Brad Schmitt – Assistant Varsity Girls Softball Coach
Volunteers:
• Shawn Hamilton – Volunteer Track Coach
• Justin Hayse – Volunteer Boys Tennis Coach
Middle School Athletic Director, Rodney Monbrum is recommending the following for coaching positions:
• Valerie Clark – Middle School Track Coach
2024 – 2025 Honorable Dismissals
Tarra Draino – Permanent Substitute
Peggy Feeney – Permanent Substitute
Michael Scott – Permanent Substitute
Emily Vandergrift - .5 Social Studies Teacher
| Name | Position | Bldg |
| Felicia Bohac | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Kristina Lardi | 1:1 Aide PT | ECC |
| Kathryn Long | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Megan Blanton | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Lauren Pratl | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Tasha Nash | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Calin Wolcott | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Kloey Lind | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Abigail Granger | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Kelly Schmitt | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Kara Olson | 1:1 Aide | ECC |
| Lori Johnson | 1:1 Aide | ES |
| Jamie Bianchetta | 1:1 Aide | ES |
| Jessica Giordano | 1:1 Aide | ES |
| Alicia Foote | 1:1 Aide | ES |
| Rachel Fearday | 1:1 Aide | ES |
| Lorena Solecki | 1:1 Aide | ES |
| Michelle Powers | 1:1 Aide | ES |
| Raquel Drinkwine | 1:1 Aide | IS |
| Beth Babcock | 1:1 Aide | ES |
| Jody Jackson | 1:1 Aide | MS |
| Tammy Shepherd | 1:1 Aide | MS |
| Gina Pens | 1:1 Aide | MS |
| Julie Walsh | 1:1 Aide | MS |
| Sara Helland | 1:1 Aide | HS |
| Sarah Rowader | 1:1 Aide | HS |
| Keegan Clampitt | 1:1 Aide | HS |
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
ADMINISTRATORS' REPORTS
A. EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER REPORT Principal Davidson Reported:
Calendar of Events:
February 28th - Rare Disease Awareness Day
February 28th - Coaler Friday
March 3rd - No School
March 3rd-7th - Read Across America Week
March 4th - Book Blast Launch Day
March 5th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
March 6th - Staff Culture Committee Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
March 7th - Coaler Friday
March 10th - Preschool Diagnostic Day
March 11th - IEP Meetings
March 11th - CPI Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
March 12th - Early Dismissal
March 13th - LLT 8:00am-11:00am
March 13th - PBS Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
March 14th - Coaler Friday
March 17th - Preschool Diagnostic Day
March 17th - Specials Team Meeting @ 11:40 a.m.
March 17th - Support Staff Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
March 17th - SPED Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
March 18th - Kindergarten Team Meeting @ 11:25 a.m.
March 18th - 1st Grade Team Meeting @ 12:15 p.m.
March 18th - SAP Team Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
March 19th - IEP Meetings
March 19th - ECC Spring Pictures
March 19th - PreK Team Meeting @ 10:45 a.m.
March 19th - Staff Meeting @ 2:55 p.m.
March 20th - Kindergarten Fine Arts Showcase @ 6:30 p.m.
March 21st - Coaler Friday
March 22nd - March 30th - SPRING BREAK
Current ECC Enrollment for 2024-2025:
PreK: 193
Kindergarten: 142
1st Grade: 152
Total: 487 (in PowerSchool as of February 27th, 2025)
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:
February was a month filled with learning, connection, and celebration at Coal City Early Childhood Center!
� Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences – Over 100 ECC families attended our Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences in early February. These meetings provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen the home-to-school connection, ensuring student growth and success.
❤ Love Yourself & Others Week – Throughout the week, students and staff participated in themed days promoting kindness, self-care, and appreciation for those around us. The week concluded with festive Valentine’s Day celebrations, spreading joy and friendship throughout the school.
� Rare Disease Awareness Week – ECC took part in Hat Day and Rare Disease Awareness Day, helping students learn about and show support for individuals with rare diseases. This week fostered empathy and understanding among our young learners.
� Family Reading Night – Our Family Reading Night was a huge success! Families came together to celebrate literacy, reinforcing the importance of reading at home and at school. Thank you to everyone who participated in making this a special evening!
� Character Focus – Appreciative – Throughout February, students focused on being appreciative, learning how gratitude plays a key role in building strong relationships and a positive school community.
As we look ahead to March, we are excited for more learning opportunities and school-wide events! Thank you to our families and staff for their continued support in making ECC a great place to learn and grow.
Recognition:
� Family Reading Night Success – A huge thank you to our reading specialists, library staff, and teachers for making Family Reading Night such a wonderful event! This special evening promoted the importance of literacy and strengthened the home-to-school connection through reading activities for our youngest learners.
� Staff Recognition – Congratulations to Mr. Petersen, who was chosen as a Grand Marshal for the IESA State Wrestling Competition! We are proud to celebrate his dedication and contributions.
B. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Trotter reported:
Calendar of Events:
● February 28th: Rare Disease Day
● March 3rd-7th: Read Across America Week
● March 3rd: No School
● March 4th: Book Blast Launch
● March 12th: 11:40 Dismissal
● March 17th-21st: IAR Testing
● March 22nd - March 30th: Spring Break
ES Enrollment:
2nd Grade: 141 students
3rd Grade: 159 students
5th Grade (SpEd) 5 students
6th Grade (SpEd) 1 student
Total: 306 (enrolled as of 2/27/2025)
Personnel:
● Beth Babcock, 1:1 aide, has joined us in the autism classroom.
CCES Happenings and Recognitions:
● Our teachers welcomed parents and guardians for the final parent-teacher conferences on February 6th.
● The 2nd trimester ended on February 19th.
● Our students and staff participated in some spirit days to support Polar Plunge and Rare Disease Day (over $350.00). Mrs. Foley’s class won an ice cream party for the money they raised for Polar Plunge
● Mrs. Carlson and I are working on a plan for schedules and locations of classrooms for the 2025- 2026 school year.
● Anne Watson has once again begun the process of ordering the prepackaged school supplies for Pre-K through 5th Grade students.
● Thanks to Katie Ludes and all the Reading Specialists for putting together another fabulous Family Reading Night.
C. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Carlson reported:
Calendar of Upcoming Events:
3/3 No School - Pulaski Day
3/4-3/7 Read Across America Week
Tuesday - Dr. Seuss Shirt/Seuss Hat Day for Cat in the Hat
Wednesday - Pajama Day for Sleep Book
Thursday - Black & White or Cow Day for Click, Clack Moo
Friday - Fort & Flashlight Day for I Can Read with my Eyes Shut
3/4-3/14 Book Blast
3/4 PBS Meeting 3:05 p.m.
3/5 Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.
3/5 Team Meetings 3:05
3/6 Support Staff Meeting 3:05 p.m.
3/6 Evacuation/Fire Drill 2:40 p.m.
3/8 Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Illinois at Braidwood Rec. Club
3/10 SAP Meeting 3:05 p.m.
3/11 TALC Meeting 3:05 p.m.
3/12 11:40 Dismissal
3/13 LLT Meeting 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at the District Office
3/13 Walk to CCHS for a preview of Sweeney Todd 12:30-2:45
3/13 CPI Team 3:05 p.m.
3/14 Pi Day Contest
3/17 A Team 3:05 p.m.
3/18-3/20 IAR (Illinois Assessment of Readiness) State Testing
3/18 PBS Meeting 3:05 p.m.
3/19 Student Council Meeting 7:30 a.m.
3/19 BLT 3:05 p.m.
3/20 Custodian Meeting 3:05 p.m.
3/21 PBS Name That Tune Assemblies ~ 4th grade 10:45 a.m.; 5th grade 11:45 a.m.
3/21 SpEd Team Meeting 3:05 p.m.
3/22-3/30 Spring Break
3/31 School Resumes
Current Enrollment:
4th Grade 160
5th Grade 137
Total: 297 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; 1/17/25; 2/11/25
Lockdown/Armed Intruder 8/23/24; 10/7/24; 12/13/24
Previous Month in Review:
• We hosted CCIS Family Bingo on Sunday, 2/2 from 1:00-4:00. Approximately 165 attended!
• Parent/Teacher Conferences were held on February 6th from 4:00-8:00. We had 78 (27%) parents attend.
• We celebrated Kindness Week from 2/10-2/14. Our theme was Love Yourself and Others. 2/10 – Comfy for a Cause Day ~ Wear PJs if you donate money to the Polar Coalers Plunge Team to benefit Special Olympics Illinois. We raised $383.19.
2/11 – Pink Day
2/12 – Celebrity/Character/Role Model Love Day - Dress like your favorite celebrity, character or role model
2/13 – Red Day
2/14 – Valentine’s Shirt Day & Random Acts of Kindness Day
• Our Student Council sold Candygrams before school 2/11-2/13. Each piece of candy came with a kind message for students to give to a friend.
• We practiced another Shelter-in-Place/Storm Drill on 2/11 during 4th and 5th grade recesses. The students did a fantastic job lining up and entering the building quietly and in an orderly fashion. • The Fine Arts Festival was held at CCHS on February 23rd. All CCIS students had artwork on display, and the CCIS Beginning Band performed. The artwork ribbon winners are listed below in the Student Recognition section.
• We celebrated Rare Disease Day on February 28th. Rare Disease Day is an observance held on the last day of February to raise awareness for rare diseases and improve access to treatment and medical representation for individuals with rare diseases and their families. Students and staff were encouraged to wear a combination of Blue, Green, Pink, Purple or a rare disease shirt on 2/28 to bring awareness to rare diseases. We also allowed staff to wear jeans on 2/24 for a $5 donation and a hat on 2/26 for a $2 donation. All the money we raised was given to a local family, who has a child with a rare disease, to help with medical expenses. We raised $387 between the IS and ES.
• Family Reading Night took place at the ECC on 2/26. There were games, snacks, prizes, and, of course, reading. We had a great turnout.
• February was Kindness Month at CCIS, and we wanted to recognize students who go above and beyond displaying kindness. Our teachers nominated 1 student each week throughout the month. Nominated students (listed below in the Student Recognition section) were recognized and given a piece of candy. Their names were also entered into a raffle for a chance to win 1 of 4 grand prizes.
• We currently have 26 students in ASAP (After School Assistance Program); 15 students in 4th grade and 11 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 had two Undercover Staff Spirit Days in February to see if the students noticed. On 2/19 we secretly dressed up in baseball attire since MLB spring training games began on 2/20. We also surprised the staff with nachos and peanuts. On 2/26 we secretly dressed up in beach-themed attire since our Family Reading Night theme was Reading in the Reef.
• We had the following additional spirit days in February for everyone: NFL Jersey/Shirt Day and Farmer Day.
Student Recognition:
• Congratulations to following Students of the Week:
Week of 2/3: Duncan Alcala, Jacklyn Reszel, Cecelia Greene, Oliver D’Orazio
Week of 2/10: Evie Lardi, Leo Christensen, Emmy Hall, Lincoln Connor-Mikos
Week of 2/18: Landyn Collins, Greyson Eaton, Blaise Doerfler, Samantha Wysocki
Week of 2/24: Leilani Alarcon, Ellis Luckey, Drew Poeschel, Peyton Robertson
• I want to recognize the following 5th grade Student Council members, who volunteered at CCIS Family Bingo on Sunday, 2/2: Eli Wix, Jordy Hossack, Jacklyn Reszel, Grace Reyelts, Ella Cvitanovich and Bobby Andreina.
• Congratulations to the artwork ribbon winners from the Fine Arts Festival.
4th Grade
| Rothko Emotional Color | Sun & Moon Weavings | Alebrijes | Koi Fish Watercolor |
| Best of Show: Blaine Poeschel | Best of Show: Everett Proffit | Best of Show: Brady Loughran | Best of Show: Kassie Valdez |
| 1st: Isadora Crawford | 1st: Lilly Kubina | 1st: Sawyer Hodge | 1st: Darcy VanDuyne |
| 2nd: Harper Horath & Madi Goodwin | 2nd: Logan Ingalls | 2nd: Emma Hansen | 2nd: Kenley Faletti |
| 3rd: Tempi Kuhel | 3rd: Piper Kubina | 3rd: Sebastian Maldonado | 3rd: Remi Aichele |
| 4th: Scout Hodgen & Brayden Plata | 4th: Charlie Stott | 4th: Bella Williams & Anden Gagliardo | 4th: Rachael Smykowski & Alex Jeschke |
5th Grade
| Navajo Rugs | Architectural Block Watercolor | Vanishing Roads |
| Best of Show: Gia Bianchetta | Best of Show: Ayden Magana | Best of Show: Ainsley Viano |
| 1st: Skylar Hamilton | 1st: Sam Wysocki | 1st: Brynn Manering |
| 2nd: Jordy Hossack | 2nd: Scarlett Knutson | 2nd: Jackie Reszel & Sylvia Leman |
| 3rd: Sadie Jones & Elliott Erhard | 3rd: Ava Vining | 3rd: Chloe Ragland & Payton Robertson |
| 4th: Leo Christensen | 4th: Evie Lardi | 4th: Drake Figge & Laityn Schott & Emmalee Bye |
• Congratulations to our Kindness Month winners:
Dale Yanke, Grace Reyelts, Grace Medina Flores, Nick Agamy, Lily Cerny, Charlie Raddatz, Daxton Carey, Ethan Lambert, Colin Muhlenbruch, Leighton Luna, Emily Ramirez, Charlie Stott, Morgan Mutz, Paisley Edmonds, Juliette Mason, Liam Jones, Jacklyn Reszel, Addi McCann, Sienna Garcia, Hazel D'Arcy, McKenna Stewart, Ceanna Morales, Estella Frashier, Kaylee Veronda, Harley Quinn Connell, Sawyer Hodge, Chrissy Hall, Cole Watson, Sean Huey, Leah Alexander and Rachael Smykowski.
• Congratulations to January’s IXL Reading Leaderboard Winners:
Brady Shaw, Joseph Vazquez, Emersyn Hall, Lincoln Wren, Colin Muhlenbruch, Yunhan Xu and Braxton Boresi.
Staff Recognition:
• I want to thank and recognize Mrs. Boresi for all her work with Family Wellness Night.
• I want to thank and recognize Mrs. Schmitz and Miss Jacobs for helping at Family Reading Night.
• I want to thank Mr. Brimm and Mrs. Bajt for their additional work preparing for the Fine Arts Festival.
• I want to thank Miss Minnick for organizing the Coin War to benefit the CCIS Polar Coalers Plunge Team. All money donated will go to Special Olympics Illinois.
• I want to thank Mrs. Ness and our Student Council members for selling Candygrams during Love Yourself and Others Week.
D. MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Stone reported:
Calendar of Events:
March 3 - No School – Casimir Pulaski Day
March 5 - Board of Education Meeting
March 12 - 12:00pm Dismissal
March 13 - End of 3rd Quarter
March 14 - CCMS Spring Dance – 6:00pm-8:00pm
March 19 - 8th Grade Gown Measurements
March 22-March 30 -Spring Break
Enrollment Numbers on 2/24
6th Grade 138
7th Grade 156
8th Grade 160
Total: 454
Month in Review:
• Coal City Middle School had professional development cancelled due to weather this month. • Coal City Middle School staff are finalizing decisions about intervention placement with Sarah Veronda.
• Coal City Middle School recognized 8 students at our PBS Assembly for their dedication to displaying excellent character at Coal City Middle School.
• On February 21st, Mr. Monbrum and I hosted our staff at Echo Lanes in Morris for a staff outing at 4:00 p.m. We had 18 staff members attend, and many staff reached out to me to say how nice of a time they had. Rod and I really enjoyed this time together outside of Coal City Middle School.
• CCMS is currently preparing for the Illinois Science Assessment on March 18 and the Illinois Assessment of Readiness during the week of April 7.
• Coal City Middle School has celebrated Rare Disease Day (or Week) this past week. We are doing multiple fundraisers throughout the district to be donated to the Castle Family during their time of hardship.
Coal City Middle School Athletics
CCMS Athletics has had successful winter seasons! Both Volleyball teams recently won the IVC tournament and also host the regionals at CCMS. Coach Rivera and the wrestling program went a perfect 31 - 0 in duals this season. Their regionals were 2-22 at Reed Custer. 24 wrestlers advanced to the Deerfield sectional. 130 students signed up for Track this spring. March 17th is the first day of practice for boys and girls track. Both our scholastic bowl and math teams have started their seasons. Coach Chad Larson finished his 20th season as the boys basketball coach. Mr. Larson sent in his resignation letter so he can be available to watch his own kids play basketball at CCHS.
CCMS Boys Basketball
Josh Quigley 6th grade coach 3-15 A Team 5-8 B Team
Nick Peters 7th grade coach 10-13 final record
Chard Larson 8th grade coach: 18-5 ICS Champions and IVC Champions
Volleyball
M. Painter - 6th Coach 23 girls out, season just finished
G. Horrie - 7th Coach IVC Champs, hosting regionals at CCMS (2 seed)
P. McMurtrey - 8th Coach IVC Champs, hosting regionals at CCMS (1 seed)
Wrestling
Head Coach Joey Rivera 31-0 in Duals (perfect season), 8 placers and finished 5th at Homer, Reed Custer Champions, wrestling in Eureka this Saturday, won the Peoria Duals, Won the Reed Custer Regional by over 200 team points.
Track (130 athletes signed up, starts March 17)
Head Coach Corey Mikula (Boys)
Head Coach Chad Larson (Girls)
Assistant Coaches: Val Clark, Ashley Matsko, Tommy Fatigante
Thank you for your continued support of CCMS Athletics!
E. HIGH SCHOOL REPORT
Principal Stafford reported:
Calendar of Events:
➢ Dual Team State Wrestling
➢ March 3 - NO SCHOOL
➢ March 5 - Science Night @ CCHS
➢ March 12 - Eighth Grade Parent Night - 6:00-7:30
➢ March 18 - Fire Drill
➢ March 22 - Spring Break
Month in Review:
➢ Course selection was completed for all returning students for the 2025-26 school year. Counselors met with each student individually to select class and to ensure appropriate placement in accordance to the advanced placement act.
Recognition:
➢ The varsity wrestling team sent the following 12 wrestlers to state: Jason Piatak, Owen Petersen, Cooper Morris, Brody Widlowski, Noah Houston, Aiden Kenney, Lucas Munsterman, Landin Benson, Cade Poyner, John Keigher, Mason Garner, Brock Finch and Culan Lindemuth. Congratulations to Brody Widlowski and Cooper Morris on placing second. Aiden Kenney placed 4th. Owen Petersen, Landin Benson, Cade Poyner and John Keigher all placed 5th.
➢ Coaler wrestling will compete at this weekend’s IHSA dual team state competition in Bloomington.
➢ The speech team competed at the state competition last weekend in Peoria. Students making it to state were Jordan Olson, Madison Wilson and Jacob Cimino.
Current Enrollment:
Freshman: 163
Sophomore: 164
Junior: 173
Senior: 128
Total: 628
Discipline Report:
Skipping class - 2
Cheating - 2
Vaping - 3
F. STUDENT SERVICES REPORT
Director Krippel reported:
Current Special Populations Data
| Coal City Schools IEP Data | |||||
| ECC | ES | IS | MS | HS | District |
| 168 | 60 | 40 | 56 | 65 | 389 |
| +2 | +1 | -1 | -2 | ||
| Coal City Schools 504 Data | |||||
| ECC | ES | IS | MS | HS | Total |
| 1 | 5 | 20 | 43 | 60 | 129 |
| +1 | -1 | ||||
Director Kenney reported:
Professional Development:
Although the professional development sessions were canceled due to weather on February 12th, we will still have three more learning sessions. The sessions will focus on curriculum alignment, AI and Mastery Manager training, and feedback.
Mentoring/New Staff:
The new staff is doing well in the district. Student growth and evaluations are coming in, and we are proud of what our new staff is doing. We look forward to a great end of the school year. I will meet with the new staff on May 1st for the final time. During that session, we will discuss the program and get feedback for improvements.
Department News:
The world language department continues to review materials for grades 6-12. They will be purchasing new materials for FY26.
Standardized Testing:
State testing will begin in March. The testing will be as follows:
IAR (ES) - Week of March 17th
IAR (IS) - Week of March 17th
IAR (MS) - Week of April 7th
PreACT/ACT (HS) - April 8th
ISA (ES) - unknown
ISA (IS) - unknown
ISA (MS) - March 18th
IAR - Illinois Assessment of Readiness
ISA - Illinois Science Assessment
H. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Superintendent Spencer reported:
1. Superintendent Christopher Spencer will acknowledge School Board President, Ken Miller for attaining the level of Established from IASB. IASB recognizes school board members for individual time and effort devoted to learning and leadership activities provided by the Association and for service to the public education community.
2. Monthly student enrollment figures were available for review.
DATES TO REMEMBER
March 3 – No School/Casimir Pulaski’s Day
March 7 & 8 – High School Musical @ 7:00 p.m. @ CCHS
March 8 – HS Spring Sport Pictures
March 9 – High School Musical @ 2:00 p.m. @ CCHS
March 12 – Early Dismissal
March 12 – ECC Spring Pictures
March 13 – End of 3rd Quarter for HS & MS
March 14 & 15 - High School Musical @ 7:00 p.m.
March 16 – High School Musical @ 2:00 p.m. @ CCHS
March 18 – NHS Induction Ceremony @ 7:00 p.m.
March 19 – 8th Grade Gown Measurement
March 20 – Kindergarten Fine Arts Showcase @ 6:30 p.m.
March 22 – March 27 - Music Department Trip
March 24 – 28 – Spring Break/No School
March 31 - Classes Resume
I. GRUNDY AREA VOCATIONAL CENTER REPORT
Mr. Engelhardt reported:
1. Approved the Minutes of the January 23, 2025, Board of Control Meeting.
2. Approved the bills, payroll, and financial reports.
3. Assistant Director Gierke discussed the professional development provided to the GAVC staff on January 6.
4. Dean of Students, Mr. Trever Sampson provided the Board of Control an update on the SkillsUSA competition.
5. Dean of Students, Mr. Trever Sampson informed the Board of Control that GAVC Awards Night was scheduled for April 29, in the Coal City Auditorium.
6. Dean of Students, Mr. Trever Sampson informed the Board of Control that all GAVC Scholarships were open for students to apply for.
7. Mrs. Drake presented a draft of the work-based Learning program that she has been working on.
8. Director Copes provided an update on FY26 enrollment projections.
9. Director Copes reviewed the current state of classroom availability and what the options were for the FY26 school year.
10. Director Copes discussed the process for the Summer Internship program and the deadlines associated with it.
11. Director Copes updated the Board on the progress and timelines for the Health Life Safety project.
12. Approved the FY26 School Calendar.
13. Accepted the resignation of Katherin Daggett, IT Assistant.
14. Approved the posting of the IT Assistant position.
J. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR REPORT
Athletic Director Boresi reported:
High School
Wrestling:
Current Record: 30-7
DGS Team Dual Champions
3rd Place Abe’s Rumble
2nd Place PIT
IHSA Dual Team Regional Champions
IHSA Dual Team State Qualifier
IHSA Dual Team State 2/28 & 3/1
Class 1A State Placers and Qualifiers
FR Jacob Piatak 106LB
SO Owen Petersen 113LB 5th Place
SR Culan Lindemuth 120LB
SO Cooper Morris 126LB 2nd Place
JR Luke Munsterman 132LB
JR Brody Widlowski 138LB 2nd Place
JR Aidan Kenney 144LB 4th Place
JR Noah Houston 150LB
JR Mason Garner 157LB
JR Brock Finch 165LB
SR Landin Benson 175LB 5th Place
JR Cade Poyner 190LB 5th Place
SR John Keigher 215LB 5th Place
Boys Basketball:
Varsity Final Record: 20-11
Sophomore Final Record: 22-7
Freshman Final Record: 16-4
Girls Basketball:
Varsity Final Record: 21-10
Sophomore Final Record: 12-12
Freshman Final Record: 4-6
Spring Sports
First day of practice is Monday, 3/3. First events start the week of March 17th.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
OLD BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON UPDATING THE FACILITIES ASSESSMENT PLAN
At the February 26 Board Study Session, CSBO Jason Smith discussed updating the Facilities Assessment Plan with the district architect’s Cordogan Clark. The last time this update took place was in 2018 for $50,000. This update is taking place mid-point in the previous Facilities Assessment Plan and will be at half the cost. This mid-point plan will cost $26,000, and Mr. Smith also asked the architects to go an additional five (5) years beyond that. This plan will allow the Board to plan for future expenditures. The architects should have this plan completed in August.
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to approve the updated Facilities Assessment Plan, as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
B. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON CONTRACT ADDENDUM FOR INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL RENOVATION
At the February 26 Board Study Session, Superintendent Christopher Spencer and CSBO Jason Smith discussed the contract addendum with Performance Services due to the increased scope of work that needs to be completed at the Intermediate School. This addendum will expedite the process, and the administration hopes the Intermediate School renovations will be completed by the fall. Mr. Smith is working with Performance Services to obtain guaranteed pricing, which would give the Board the most flexibility with this addendum. There may be a 2nd addendum, and that will determine any additional work and cost, but it is very important to get things put into place now to get the work started ASAP.
Mr. Rogers moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to approve the contract addendum with Performance Services for the Intermediate School Renovation, as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Steve Rogers, Dan Engelhardt, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
C. DISCUSSION ON BOARD OF REVIEW’S DECISION REGARDING GE HITACHI AND 2024 LEVY IMPACT
Superintendent Christopher Spencer provided the Board with an update regarding the Board of Review’s decision on GE Hitachi and its impact on the 2024 Tax Levy. An email was received from the one of the district’s attorneys with the decision from the Board of Review. The Board or Review decided to keep the property tax assessment of GE Hitachi the same, and as a result, the district will start the process to file an assessment complaint with PTAB.
NEW BUSINESS
A. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON ACCEPTING THE DONATION FOR THE LUNCH PROGRAM
A donation was received from John Trotter in the amount of $91.00 for the district’s lunch program. These funds will provide 50 meals for students. Superintendent Christopher Spencer and Board President Miller thanked Mr. Trotter for his donation to the district’s school lunch program.
Mrs. Klein moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to accept the donation from the Trotter Farm in the amount of $91.00 for the district’s lunch program, as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Cindy Klein, Dan Engelhardt, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
B. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON ACCEPTING THE DONATION FROM CONSTELLATION
A donation was received from Constellation in the amount of $1,010.00 to Coal City School District. This donation will go towards equipment for the new Motion and Graphic Design course at Coal City High School. Board member Shawn Hamilton volunteered his time at Constellation for this donation to be received.
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mr. Rogers seconded to accept the donation from Constellation in the amount of $1,010.00
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
C. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON ACCEPTING THE SCHOOL SITE DONATION FROM GRUNDY COUNTY
A School Site Donation in the amount of $2,456.15 was received from Grundy County. A resolution was prepared for acceptance of the school site donation.
Mr. Engelhardt moved, and Mrs. Klein seconded to approve the resolution accepting the School Site Donation in the amount of $2,456.15 from Grundy County, and to waive the reading of the resolution.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
D. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON BID AWARDS ON THE HIGH SCHOOL’S MECHANICAL PROJECTS
Sealed bids for the high school’s mechanical project were opened February 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. A legal notice was placed in the Courant on Wednesday, January 31, 2025, and a Pre-Bid meeting was held of February 4, 2025. There were a total of three (3) bids received. CSBO Jason Smith updated the Board with the results of the bid opening process.
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to approve the total base bid award to Construction Solutions of Illinois, in the amount of $232,723.00 which includes a $20,000 contingency allowance.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
E. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON THE PURCHASING OF EQUIPMENT THROUGH THE TRANE CO-OP
CSBO Jason Smith discussed the purchasing of the equipment through the Trane Co-Op for the high school mechanical project. This equipment is needed for the high school mechanical project.
Mr. Engelhardt moved, and Mrs. Klein seconded to approve the purchasing of the high school mechanical project equipment through the Trane Co-Op, as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
F. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON APPROVAL OF THE LIBRARY MEDIA GRANT
Allison Peterson, Librarian at the High School, was awarded the Library Media Grant from the Secretary of State in the amount of $1,644.33. The grant funds provide supplementary support to the district’s library media programs.
Mr. Rogers moved, and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the Library Media Grant from the Secretary of State, in the amount of $1,644.33.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Steve Rogers, Quint Harmon, Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
G. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON AGREEMENT WITH SPROUT EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Director of Student Services, Luke Krippel made a recommendation to continue physical therapy services with Sprout Educational Services for the 2025 – 2026 school year. This is a one-year agreement.
Mr. Engelhardt moved, and Mr. Rogers seconded to approve the one (1) year agreement with Sprout Educational Services, as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Steve Rogers, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
H. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON CONTINUING DISCLOSURE UNDERTAKING
A Federal requirement for school districts with outstanding bond debt is that each district must provide a “Continuing Disclosure” report to certain repositories. The proposal from Raymond James and Associates, is to provide assistance with continuing disclosure obligations at a fee of $1,500 and the invoice was attached for review.
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to accept the proposal from Raymond James & Associates, Inc. to provide the District with the annual Continuing Disclosure as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
I. DISCUSSION/ACTION ON AGREEMENT WITH FINAL SITE
CSBO Jason Smith made a recommendation to enter into an agreement with Final Site for the district website and a mass communication tool. This will a three (3) year agreement with the option to extend for two (2) more years.
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mrs. Klein seconded to approve the three (3) year agreement with Final Site, as presented.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Dan Engelhardt, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
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.) - Mr. Spencer informed the Board that the PreK and Kindergarten teaching positions have been filled at the Early Childhood Center. The Intermediate School still has the 3 teaching and social worker position available. The Middle School has a special education teacher position available, and the high school has a need for a special education/life skills teaching position available, and a psychologist position available within the district.
CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mr. Rogers seconded to go to closed session at 6:27 p.m. for the purpose of considering information regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, individual student issue, and dismissal of specific employees.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Quint Harmon, Steve Rogers, Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
Mr. Engelhardt moved, and Mr. Harmon seconded to return to open session at 6:34 p.m.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Dan Engelhardt, Quint Harmon, Cindy Klein, Steve Rogers, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton,
Motion: Carried.
ACTION AS A RESULT OF CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Rogers moved, and Mr. Harmon seconded to approve the expulsion of student number 2028373.
Roll Call.
Ayes: Steve Rogers, Quint Harmon, Dan Engelhardt, Cindy Klein, Ken Miller
Nays:
Absent: Jeff Emerson, and Shawn Hamilton
Motion: Carried.
BOARD STUDY SESSION OF THE WHOLE DATE: MARCH 26, 2025 @ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: APRIL 2, 2025 @ 6:00 P.M. In Coal City CUSD #1 Administrative Center Boardroom
ADJOURNMENT
Mr. Harmon moved, and Mr. Engelhardt seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m. President Miller asked if there was any opposition to the motion, hearing none considers the motion approved.
https://4.files.edl.io/e724/04/10/25/175231-965b85a2-26ad-4303-9257-a097d845d07b.pdf
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