Community News
Goldasich, Tiburzi speak to school board about school culture
Mark Goldasich addressed the school board about his concerns with school culture
Two staff members from the district approached the school board during a regular school board meeting on Monday, November 19. Staff members informed the board of their own opinion on how data over the district is tearing the district apart and, in contrast, bringing the district together. The board listened to both instructors and explained they would contact them later if they had any questions.
Mr. Mark Goldasich was recognized first by the school board under recognition of the public to speak about school culture. “It will unite us, not divide us,” Goldasich explained to the board on his way to the front. Mr. Goldasich, high school industrial technology teacher, addressed the school board about his concerns with school culture or the way the school does business.
“Regardless of what your political beliefs are, adequate yearly progress (AYP) was supposed to bring us together and have daily conversations about our day-to-day operations,” Goldasich started, “I don’t think it did.” He went on to say that the CUSD #7 is still isolated in 4-6 different groups and the district has had 10 years to look at data, the districts’ report card or adequate yearly progress. “Data is what it is, it was supposed to produce a data driven school culture and I don’t think it did.” Goldasich explained that the same data that tore the district apart is supposed to bring the district together, and it has not.
According to Goldasich, CUSD #7 did not embrace aspects of AYP. “Now we are searching for other things to measure such as effort, parental involvement, sports, and we could measure everything else instead of what we should be doing.” He went on to explain that some aspects of test taking are important to a certain degree. He highlighted that the Illinois School Board of Education placed CUSD #7 in the bottom 20% of all school districts in the State of Illinois. “We have teachers that have no idea of this, this cannot happen.”
Other things teachers do not know, according to Goldasich, is less than 12% of our students are going to college according to the ACT college success report. “That is the lowest in the area,” he added. He also mentioned high school students have the highest GPA, but suffer the largest loss in college. “That is grade inflation, I am concerned about this.” He questioned what the board is concerned about. “Education is a loose structure and we can squirm away from accountability,” Goldasich went on to add. “In order to remain effective, we need strong local control of our day-to-day operations.”
Goldasich explained day-to-day operations start with curriculum maps, the most important things the district has. Maps need to be aligned, sequenced, and phased. “We do not have that, we are already behind.” Then, teachers then apply different teaching strategies to ensure everyone learns. Goldasich added that CUSD #7 is good at teaching to a diverse group of learners. Next, according to him, students take tests to prove their learning. Assessments are then structured. “Since our assessments are not structured, because our curriculum maps do not have performance objectives, we cannot gauge where we are.”
Mrs. Susan Tiburzi then presented school culture from a teacher’s point of view. “I am here as a teacher of 27 years,” she started. “Data plays a large role in operation, the eyes are on it.” Tiburzi explained she has viewed data in many different lenses and her presentation was a collaborative effort by her friends in the elementary section. “Some see numbers, we see hope,” she started in. Tiburzi explained there is a lot of data when it comes to test scores, but she informed the board of facts not excuses.
“These are the facts we deal with daily,” she started in. In 2009, our school sunk and 600 students were without a school. Students were then housed in a split schedule in both the middle and high schools. “Thisnot only affected the elementary students, but also the middle and high school population,” Tiburzi explained. Other facts she noted were: 61% of our demographic is low income, the districts’ mobility rate is at 19%, the truancy rate is at 9%, 24 students are reported homeless, and 18% of students are IEP.
Susan Tiburzi responded to Mr. Goldasich’s speech and explained how data is viewed in a teacher’s perspective.
Tiburzi said the district is testing the students to death, as her slideshow pictured a student crying. “It is something I see daily,” she said. “There are 6 year olds that scream ‘Not the timer, not the timer’.” The timer is used by all grade levels doing practice testing because all standardized tests are timed. “I get it, it’s what we do,” Tiburzi added. “If kids need to learn how to name letters, they need to do it in a minute.”
“Even though Goldasich explained we are in the bottom 20%, our scores have continued to increase,” she highlighted. “Especially in reading.” She went on to explain the lowest scores were from the year after the mine subsidence. In 2012, the average score was higher than the state percentage in reading. “In math, we met AYP in 2012.”
Tiburzi went on to explain what is set up in the elementary school to improve scores. Teachers use a RTI model, AIMS web, MAZE, benchmark. The AIMS web measures fluency. The MAZE measures comprehension. The benchmark is where the school stands after testing. The elementary tests students 3 times a year to measure progress, or baseline. From there, students are progress monitored to track individual progress. “It directly drives our instruction,” Tiburzi said. Other new programs implemented by elementary teachers are Explode the Code, guided reading, ISAT coaching, school themes, leaders for readers, Reading A-Z, Daily 5, Great Leaps, Review and Practice, Frog Publications, and Singapore Math. “If we all work together, which is what it takes, we can complete the puzzle,” Tiburzi closed.
The school board then asked both instructors to present their slideshows to the board of education so they can review them further and explained they we be in contact with both Goldasich and Tiburzi if they have any questions.
Personnel Action
The board of education approved maternity leave for Coleen Favre, elementary teacher, beginning February 25, 2013 through May 3, 2013. The board then accepted the resignation of high school volunteer boys’ soccer coach Mark Stewart, effective immediately.
The board appointed Dan Smith and Adam Tallman as high school volunteer baseball coach for season 2013. Lastly, the board released Debbi Zillen from the administrative staff due to medical reasons.
Superintendent’s Report
Mr. Paul Skeans, superintendent, reported to the board that the Barton Charitable Foundation’s gift of $30,000 was presented to the district. The Lon D. and Lucille Barton Charitable Foundation earmarked the money for the music and athletic programs. “Majority will go toward the music program,” Skeans explained.
Skeans also questioned the board if the board would like him to seek out alternative options to having school board meetings paperless. The cheapest options would cost the district $50 each month and would be an online portal for all board members to access. Board members raised the question what the cost was for having the meeting like they are currently and Skeans responded with a $50 figure. “The thing about paperless, we can send out updates immediately and confidentially to board members the day of the board meeting,” Skeans added. “Any updates or amendments to the agenda would be immediate.” Board members encouraged Skeans to seek out options for paperless board meetings and advised him to look into BoardBook.
Mr. Skeans explained the bleachers from the previous elementary school in Benld will be demolished if a bid is not approved. Previously, a third party bid on the bleachers, but then removed their bid leaving the bleachers in the building for demolition. Skeans said Bunker Hill expressed interest in the bleachers and the board voted to give the bleachers to Bunker Hill for $1 to prevent them from being demolished.
Paul Skeans also noted that the district’s company that received the bread bid has gone out of business leaving the district without any bread. Administrative staff had to go around Monday and buy bread from local stores to ensure bread for the rest of this week. Skeans noted that he is looking into another bread option.
The school board negotiated the idea of meeting with the public once a quarter or once a month. Board members explained the open discussion must have a topic to be discussed and not be an “open firing session.” Although Skeans explained he did not encourage the board to do this, board members explained they would like to consider having it. The school board is going to discuss this and possibly establish the open discussion in the future.
Assistant Superintendent’s Report
Tieman had several items to inform the board about. Tieman explained the sharing committee is continuing to explore options on how technology can help school districts offer more dual credit courses on the high school level. “It is moving slow, but we are moving closer,” Tieman added.
ISBE now offers a 6 cent lunch option now. If the school district offers a healthier menu, the State of Illinois we reimburse the district 6 cents for each lunch. CUSD #7 has filed the appropriate paperwork and Tieman believes the district will be approved. “I think they will apply that to the breakfast program next year.”
Tieman updated the board that 49 teachers, 59%, of CUSD #7 has a master’s degree. Tieman noted that the statistic is from last year and would not reflect any earnings from this year or last summer. “I still think that is wrong, I just have to contact the right person to find out how that is reported.”
Old Business
Tom Hyde reported that Contegra has completed 54% of their work with 62% of the entire project being completed. Hyde explained that bids for the Benld demolition are to be in by December 12, 2012. Data wiring for the middle school will be started by the end of the month.
He went on to explain that the city engineer is looking at Kelly Street to make sure improvements can be done to the street. Hyde said they are considering a 3” paving for the road.
Hyde also explained the photovoltaic system is down by 60% compared to two years ago. The photovoltaic system would replace the wind turbine. It would switch the alternative power from wind to solar. He added Illinois Clean Energy is reviewing the change from wind to solar to see if the grant would still cover the PV system. If they do, CUSD #7 would save nearly $100,000 on the project.
New Business
After purchasing a regular van two months ago, Superintendent Skeans suggested to the school board to purchase another van equipped with a wheelchair lift. The van will be used for special educational use. When it is not in use for wheelchair transportation, it can be used to transport up to 6 students. “The van we purchased two months ago is being used every day to transport students or staff conferences,” Tieman explained.
The board chose to purchase a wheelchair accessible van from Southern Mobility which for $37,976. The 2012 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a wheelchair lift and averaged 26-27mpg while the bus being used now averages 7.5mpg. “I know it a lot higher than some of the other ones, but a couple inches here and a couple inches there really gives a lot of flexibility for us,” Dave Griffel added. Mark Hayes and Peyton Bernot objected, but the motion went on to be approved 5-2.
Administrator Updates
Dennis Tiburzi, high school principal, explained midterm grades would be distributed on November 21. He noted parent/teacher conferences provided a positive experience for both parents and teachers. Tiburzi also explained that parents have been actively accessing the online student information system to track their students’ grades.
Lori Emmons, principal of the middle school, also explained midterm grades were sent home. She explained that GMS students have decorated Christmas card to send to a local soldier: Scott Schardan. Schardan is currently serving in Afghanistan and is the brother of Allison Schardan. She thanked the student council for sponsoring the holiday project.
Angela Turcol, principal of the elementary school, noted that 475 parent/teacher conferences were held. She went on to thank Ageless Fitness for continuing to support the elementary school. Ageless donated $250.00 from the GloRun event on November 3. “They are an asset to the community and I want to thank them for always thinking of us. They give back to us every year from an event they do.”
November Bills
Education Fund: $66,046.53
Building Fund: $7,297.86
Transportation Fund: $13,337.16
Grand Total: $86,681.55
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The Wilsonville Progressive Club will celebrate and host a 90 year Anniversary Party on Saturday, May 11. The party will include a catered dinner, a live band, and fireworks.
Doors will open at 2 pm with a catered dinner being served at 4 pm. The Shane Kessinger Experience (live band) will play at 5 pm, and a grand fireworks display will be held at dusk.
The Progressive Club was originally established in 1934 by the Progressive Miners and was located on the northwest side of Wilsonville’s main street. The Club moved to their new building in January of 1949 and today this is still the current location at 212 Wilson Street in Wilsonville.
Wilsonville was founded in 1917 when Superior Coal Co. Mine No. 4 was sunk and this was the most modern mine in the Superior field. At that time, the little settlement which grew up around the mine was called Wilson. One day a worker paused and asked, “What are we going to name this town?” President Wilson was in office, thus the town was then and there named Wilson until 1919 when it was incorporated and the name expanded to Wilsonville.
The Wilsonville Progressive Club is operated and maintained by an elected panel of trustees and loyal members. The Club is open to the public and membership is always welcome. The large outdoor covered pavilion and manicured grassy side lot offer an attractive and convenient venue for any event along with inside facilities.
If you are interested in renting for any kind of event, call 217-835-3122 during open hours which are Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 4 pm to close, and Sunday doors open at 2 pm. Every Sunday afternoon at 4 pm is the Queen of Hearts drawing and the Club is on Facebook as well.
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SUNDAY, APRIL 14, 2024
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Oak Street in reference to a dog bite.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street to pick up a found item.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Chestnut Street in reference to a burglary.
An officer was out in the 200 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a motorist assist.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Schmidt Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South 1st Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Broadway Street in reference to a medical call.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of South Illinois Street in Benld in reference to illegal burning.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South 5th Street in Benld in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Horizon Street in reference to a 911 call.
MONDAY, APRIL 15, 2024
An officer was dispatched to Gillespie Police Department to speak with a male in reference to a theft in the 100 block of South Main Street in Benld.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of West Osie Street in reference to a violation of an order of protection.
Nicholas O. Landolt, 36, of Gillespie was arrested on multiple warrants including one out of St. Clair County for possession for methamphetamine, a second one out of Montgomery County for failure to appear for driving while license was revoked, and a third out of Macoupin County for failure to appear for methamphetamine.
An officer was dispatched to East Walnut Street in reference to a suspicious noise.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Broadway Street in reference to a medical alarm.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a theft in the 200 block of West Oak Street.
An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to criminal damage to her property.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to identity theft.
An officer spoke with a female in the 100 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to a neighbor dispute.
An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a violation of an order of protection.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Southern Street in reference to a suspicious person.
TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2024
An officer was dispatched to the 1100 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to criminal damage to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of East Walnut Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass to property. Melissa J. Hughes, 49, of Benld was arrested on a Montgomery County warrant for theft/larceny.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Francis Street in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 700 block of Rose Street in Benld.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South 5th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Pine Street to assist the Department of Children and Family Services.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Broadway Street in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Central Avenue in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 2024
An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to fraud in the 200 block of South Macoupin.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of East Elm Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to Route 4 and Staunton Road in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Gillespie Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.
An officer was dispatched to High Street and Gillespie Street in reference to a suspicious noise.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of High Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil standby.
An officer was flagged down at Elm Street and Clinton Street and spoke with an individual in reference to a civil issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Mt. Olive Road in Eagarville in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a suspicious circumstance.
THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 400 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a panic alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 1300 block of South Second Street in reference to a civil standby.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Osie Street in reference to a dog bite. Heather L. Kimberlin, 47, of Gillespie was issued a citation for dog at large.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Baker Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was out with a suspicious vehicle in the alley in the 500 block of Park Avenue.
An officer was dispatched to East Walnut and South Main Street in Benld in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the Veterans Memorial Park in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle that had been parked there for a couple of days.
Gillespie Police Department was requested for traffic control by the Gillespie Fire Department for a fire on Eagarville Road.
FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of East Walnut Street in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South Street in Gillespie in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Litchfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to a suspicious person at the storage units. Kathy J. Henderson, 49, of Sawyerville was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for failure to appear for bad checks
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Maple Street and Macoupin Street. Kenny L. Fults, 18, of Belleville was issued a citation for possession of cannabis.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Mt. Olive Road in Eagarville in reference to civil standby.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of West Burton Street in reference to an animal complaint.
SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 2024
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespassing. Timothy J. Dalpozzo, 57, of Benld was arrested for criminal trespassing to residence and a Macoupin County warrant for criminal trespassing to a residence.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at South Street and Chestnut Street and charges are pending crime lab results.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to Macoupin Street and Elm Street in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Osie Street in reference to a dog at large.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to medical assist.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Spruce Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Baker Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Street in Benld in reference to a medical call.
An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to an ordinance issue.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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LITCHFIELD, Ill. — HSHS St. Francis Hospital is offering service opportunities to area teens this summer through the 2024 Junior Volunteer Program. Applications are being accepted now through May 1.
Applicants must be high school students maintaining at least a “C” average, be a minimum of 14 years of age by June 1 and be willing to volunteer at least two hours per week during the summer program. Junior volunteers will perform a variety of duties in various hospital departments.
Registration materials are available on the hospital’s website volunteer page at https://www.hshs.org/st-francis/community/volunteer.
All participants in the program will be required to present proof of immunizations for MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), and Varicella (chicken pox). An additional requirement includes attendance at a hospital orientation.
A limited number of positions will be available. For more information, contact HSHS St. Francis Hospital at 217-324-8200.
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