Community News
PARCC scores improve in CUSD 7
The board was introduced to three new district teachers— Katie Prange, high school accounting and English teacher; Lee Harrison, art teacher; and Vanessa Kolesar, second grade teacher.
A year after facing criticism from the Community Unit School District 7 Board of Education for substandard student scores on the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) tests, administrators presented reports showing marked improvement during the regular monthly board meeting on Monday night.
“There’s a tremendous amount of good news in these reports,” Supt. Joe Tieman told the board. “There are some areas of concern as well.” Tieman described the information presented to the board Monday night as “preliminary,” indicating more complete reports will be presented next month when the state releases School Report Cards for the local school district and school systems statewide.
“All I can say is ‘wow’,” Board President Mark Hayes commented after reviewing the test score data. “You guys took some criticism and some heat from this board last year. You came through with flying colors. Keep up the good work.”
Building administrators came under fire last October over declining scores on the state’s standardized tests to assess student performance. The board later chose not to renew a contract with Lori Emmons to serve as high school principal. In April, Carlinville resident Shane Owsley was hired to step into the position Emmons vacated.
Like Emmons, Ben-Gil Elementary Principal Angela Turcol was criticized last year for declining test scores, but reports presented Monday night documented significantly improved performance among district elementary students. Turcol attributed the improvement to revised teaching strategies as well as the fact that test administrators allowed students to take the test last spring with pencil and paper instead of using computers.
There’s a tremendous amount of good news in these reports
“Eventually they want everyone to do computer-based testing,” Turcol said. “For now, we’re going to stick with pencil and paper. It’s what the students are comfortable with.”
Tieman singled out Turcol for high praise, saying she took on the challenge of working with teachers to revamp teaching strategies.
Middle School Principal Jill Rosentreter presented comparisons showing improvements in English/Language Arts and mathematics among current fifth and sixth grade students. Among fifth graders, who took the test last school year, substantially more students met or approached, met or exceeded expectations than the same students a year earlier when they were tested as third graders. Likewise, more students who took the test last year as fifth graders approached, met or exceeded expectations as the same students when the took the test as third graders and fourth graders.
Rosentreter said the data is especially useful because it compares the same group of students from one academic year to the next.
“You’re comparing apples to apples?” board member Weye Schmidt asked.
“Yes,” Rosentreter replied.
As part of the strategy to improve scores, Rosentreter said instructors “started targeting skills (students) needed,” based on the results of the previous year’s testing.
“You can see from our scores that it did have an impact on our kids,” she said. “I’m very pleased with how our kids performed. There was significant improvement last year.”
Until this past spring, high school students took an ACT test to evaluate performance. For the 2016-17 school year, the state switched from the ACT test to the SAT test for high schoolers. Tieman and Owsley both suggested that switch makes it more difficult to make comparisons to determine whether or not student performance has improved and, if so, to what degree. Owsley reported, however, that he was able to track improvements from the time when students took a pre-SAT test in the fall and the actual SAT in the spring.
He noted a gain of nearly 40 points in reading and writing skills and a gain of nearly 44 points in math. The State Board of Education has not yet set the standard for SAT performance, but the College Board reported a statewide average for students meeting benchmarks in both math and language skills at 37 percent. Gillespie High School students came in at 36 percent, on the cusp of the statewide average.
Wills, a vice president with First Midstate Investment Bankers, Inc., Bloomington, told the board a downward trend in interest rates has created “an opportunity” for the district to refund the bonds at a lower rate.
Owsley said 37 of the 74 Gillespie students who were tested scored above the national average for the test. Eleven local students were in the top 20 percent in the country, and one student scored in the 99 percentile.
He said both GHS English and math departments are discussing the SAT results and the resources they have available to better prepare students for the test.
“I’m really impressed by what Mr. Owsley has put in place,” Tieman said. “Our SAT scores were probably higher than what we would have expected last year, and I expect to see them continue to go up.”
BOND REFINANCING
The board took no immediate action regarding the refinancing of nearly $7 million in construction bonds issued to build the BenGil Elementary School after hearing a brief presentation from Kevin Wills, a vice president with First Midstate Investment Bankers, Inc., Bloomington.
Wills said a downward trend in interest rates has created “an opportunity” for the district to refund the bonds at a lower rate. Special state legislation was required for the district to issue the bonds on an emergency basis in order to build a replacement facility for the Benld Elementary School, which was destroyed by mine subsidence. Within the legislation are provisions allowing the district to refund the bonds up until the call date on Dec. 1, 2021. The current rate is approximately 5.9 percent, but Wills said the district could refinance the bonds at a rate of less than four percent.
Using a current rate of 3.7 percent, Wills offered two scenarios for the board to consider.
“Neither of these is a recommendation,” he said. “They’re just something for you guys to consider. This is nothing more than getting this out there for you to consider.”
Wills said the biggest “pro” of the proposal would be the district being able to lock in a new, lower rate for the bonds.
In one scenario, the district could refinance the bonds and continue making approximately the same payments toward the balance and capture a savings of about $540,000 at the end of the bond of issue. In the second scenario, the district could use savings to retire part of the debt and make lower payments toward retiring the bonds in fiscal 2034.
“In this scenario, they’re still paid off in that fiscal year, so we are not extending anything,” Wills said. The second scenario would result in savings of about $20,000 per year, which would translate into a reduction of three or four cents in the tax levy. That tax levy would help mitigate against a levy increase built into the $2.5 million Working Cash bond issue approved earlier this year, but the overall savings to the district would be about $180,000 less than the first scenario.
Responding to a question from Supt. Tieman, Wills said the biggest “pro” of the proposal would be the district being able to lock in a new, lower rate for the bonds. The only downside he could cite was the fact that the bonds can only be refunded once. If the district experienced a financial downturn before the bonds are due in 2034, it would be unable to exercise its option to refinance without incurring taxes on the proceeds. “It could end up costing you more money,” he said.
Tieman suggested the board should explore the options and make a determination at a later date.
“I think it’s something we need to explore,” he said. “I’m not in the business of turning down savings, but I think I need to talk with Kevin and decide what makes more sense for the district.” Ultimately, if the district chooses to refund the bond issue, the plan could be one of the scenarios Wills outlined Monday night or yet another option to be determined during further discussions with First Midstate.
LAWSUIT CDs
Upon a recommendation made by Tieman during the budget hearing, the board approved a plan to invest $2.4 million of the Union Pacific lawsuit settlement in certificates of deposit with United Community Bank. The money will in invested in tiers for 12, 24 and 36 months.
Tieman said he asked for both United Community Bank and First National Bank-Benld to submit bids for the investment.
I’m recommending United Community Bank because their rates were better
“I’m recommending United Community Bank because their rates were better,” he said. In addition, UCB agreed to waive any penalties for early withdrawal if the district finds it needs to tap into the money before the CDs mature.
“It’s a win-win for the district and an opportunity to capture some interest,” Tieman said.
During the discussion, board member Weye Schmidt asked about considering First National’s bid since the difference in the interest rate was one-tenth of one percent for some CD increments. Tieman said he recommended taking the best bid and pointed out that First National is the designated depository for the district’s state aid payments.
Brought to a vote, the measure was approved unanimously with Jenni Alepra, UCB Gillespie branch manager, voting present.
STRATEGIC PLAN
The board voted unanimously to adopt a 10-page strategic plan to guide school improvement efforts over the next three years. The plan, which Tieman described as a goal-setting document, was developed by a committee that included administrators, teachers, and community representatives. It was chaired by board member Schmidt.
The plan addresses six areas of educational administration: 1.) Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment; 2.) Student Discipline; 3.) Building and Grounds; 4.) Technology; 5.) School Culture; and 6.) Financial Stability. In addition to identifying areas the district needs to address, the document sets specific goals, target dates for reaching those goals and mechanisms for evaluating whether or not the goals are sufficiently met.
“Once the board approves this, it will become a ‘fluid’ working document,” Tieman said, noting that it will be subject to being updated and revised as strategies are implemented.
Tieman specifically thanked Schmidt and committee members for their work on the document. The committee began work on the plan in September 2014.
“They volunteered a lot of time and a lot of effort,” Tieman said.
PERSONNEL
Following an executive session of more than one hour, the board voted to promote Jacqueline McKinney to the position of head cook at Ben-Gil Elementary School and to post the position she currently holds as vacant. The board also voted unanimously to post an open position for a paraprofessional to serve as a classroom aid at Gillespie Middle School. Gina Frensko was unanimously approved as a volunteer high school cheerleading coach.
Also in the area of personnel, the board was introduced to three new district teachers—Vanessa Kolesar, second-grade teacher; Katie Prange, high school accounting and English teacher; and Lee Harrison, art teacher.
As a district focus, Middle School Principal Rosentreter recognized Stephanie Wilson, seventh grade English and language arts teacher.
As a district focus, Middle School Principal Rosentreter recognized Stephanie Wilson, seventh grade English and language arts teacher. Rosentreter said Wilson recently has secured more than $1,200 in grants for her classroom including a $100 scholarship, a $650 grant from the Illinois Retired Teachers and a $500 classroom grant from the Partnership for Educational Excellence.
“She consistently creates an environment for teaching,” Rosentreter said, “and she has created a culture where students enjoy reading.”
Rosentreter said Wilson has trained other teachers in analyzing testing data, and she holds book clubs in her classroom for seventh and eighth-grade students during lunch periods.
TEACHER CONTRACT
Jennifer Brown with the local chapter of the Illinois Federation of Teachers reported to the board that teachers will meet on Oct. 3 with a union representative to discuss and vote on ratifying a proposed teachers contract. A special meeting of the board is set for Oct. 4 to finalize approval of the contract.
“We look forward to meeting with you either later that day or another date,” Brown said.
DONATION
Supt. Tieman reported to the board that Dave DeLaurent of DeLaurent Construction had donated striping for a parking lot project his company recently completed for the school. In addition, he said DeLaurent donated $500 to defray the cost of students participating in a bowling program during the winter months.
OTHER ACTION
In other action, the board:
- Approved a performance trip for the high school band and chorus to New Orleans set for Feb. 15-19. Tieman said participating students will miss one day of school, but the trip will not interfere with families’ plans for Easter as in past years. He also reported that all chaperones will be subject to a background check.
- Approved an update to the list of Parent-Teacher Advisory Committee members, changing Dennis Tiburzi’s status from “community member” to “board member.”
- Voted to renew the district’s liability and workers compensation insurance policy at a cost of $239,107. Tieman said the premium is about $1,800 less than last year, with the bulk of the reduction attributed toan drop in the workers compensation premium.
- Approved a revision to the district’s wrestling team cooperative agreement with the Mount Olive school district, allowing Staunton students to also participate on the team.
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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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