School News
Partnership awards nearly 25 percent of Gillespie graduates with scholarship
Back Row (L to R) Tyler Swank, Braden Rauzi, Landen Emelander, Quinn Beechler, Owen Schweppe, Traegan Madeline, Macie Wright, Mia Brawner, Katie Spencer, John Fassero, Ken Tebbe
“We are honored to reward and assist almost 25 percent of this years graduates,” reported John Fassero, Jr., at the Gillespie High School senior awards night on Thursday May 14. The president of the CUSD7 education foundation, noted that once again every applicant received a $2,000 tuition scholarship to the college or institute of their choice.
“We are proud tonight to award $34,000 in tuition scholarships to these amazing and very worthy seniors out of a graduating class of 72,” he said. “Our directors were moved by the applicants’ personal statements of the varied life experiences that have shaped their future goals.
“To date we have awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships to 556 GHS graduates to further their educations,” Fassero said. “In addition, we have donated more than $700,000 for in-classroom grants since 1992. Our latest grant capped a three-year $90,000 gift to update computers for student school and at home use.
The 2025 awards and their recipients are:
BEHRENS FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FOR A CAREER IN SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, OR MEDICINE
Today James William Behrens, retired senior technical advisor for the U.S. Navy to the Pentagon, initiates this scholarship to honor his family which has contributed to Gillespie since 1869. Henry H. Behrens and wife Wilhelmina raised eight children, including George William Behrens Sr. and his son George William Jr., who later operated Behrens Drug Store in Bunker Hill.
Madilyn Martin, daughter of Emily and Josh Martin of Gillespie, will attend Southern Illinois University Edwardsville to study pre-dentistry.
PETE AND WANDA BERNOT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship was established to honor students who exemplify the values that the Bernots held dear: service to community, dedication to hard work, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Mia Brawner, daughter of Nikki and Matt Brawner of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study sonography.
BILL AND GWEN BERUTTI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
The Beruttis left a generous gift to fund scholarships. Gwen taught English in Roxanna and Mt. Olive after she earned a graduate degree at SIU Carbondale. She was also well known as a keyboard accompanist and vocalist in her husband Bill’s musical combo. Bill worked at Berutti Self Service Grocery Store, in the office at Shell Oil, and was a piano technician and musician.
Ellie Wilson, daughter of Stephanie and Jim Wilson of Gillespie, will attend Illinois College in Jacksonville to study writing.
DR. D. ROSS AND MRS. ROSEMARY BILLITER SCHOLARSHIP
“We are grateful to the people of this area who have supported my medical practice,” said Dr. Billiter, when he retired recently after nearly 50 years as a general surgeon at St. Francis Hospital. “This gift acknowledges our appreciation and an investment in the future of our area.”
Owen Schweppe, son of Sara and Larry Schweppe of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College, to study industrial electricity.
ELINOR DAVIES NURSING SCHOLARSHIP
Established by friends and family in honor of Elinor who served many decades as school nurse in CUSD7. She was also an active member of the Gillespie First United Methodist Church.
Owen Pau, son of Sara and Gavin Pau of Gillespie, will attend University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, to study nursing.
ROGER DEWITT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
An outpouring of memorials for this farmer, painter, horse breeder, horticulturist, and musician led to this award. Song writing and performing with his band Southern Blend were backdrops to his farming and painting. Self-taught, he depicted small family farm life, a disappearing culture of the rural Midwest.
Macie Wright, daughter of Shannon and Dave Wright of Gillespie, will attend Millikin University in Decatur, to study art therapy and psychology.
JOE DONA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
A friend has chosen to recognize Joe’s years of service to his community. A professional truck driver, Joe was best known for his deep commitment to the area. He was in the first EMT class for the Gillespie ambulance service. He joined the Gillespie fire department in 1960 and remained active until his death in 2022. In addition, he was an auxiliary policeman and kept the Benld Catholic Cemetery in beautiful condition for many years.
Landen Emelander, son of Kelly and Eric Emelander, will attend Midwest Technology Institute in Springfield to study HVAC/R and electricity.
H.E.I.D.I. FOUNDATION MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Gerald and Sandi Brand’s foundation, in memory of their daughter Heidi, assists those interested in helping young people with special needs to achieve full potential. H.E.I.D.I. stands for Helping Every Individual Develop Independence.
Traegen Madeline, son of Deanna Ellis and Jeremy Ellis of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study exercise science.
RYAN KOSCHAK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established by his wife, Abbie Bunge Koschak, this scholarship supports students in the trades. Ryan, GHS Class of 1999, graduated from the Midwest School of Welding and became a Boilermaker (Local 363). He was known for his exceptional kindness, humor, and generosity as well as skillful welding. Especially devoted to his daughter Vivien, he touched many lives with joy before his untimely passing.
Quinn Beechler, son of Tammy and Jim Beechler of Gillespie, will attend Midwest Technology Institute in Springfield, to study welding, specifically pipeline welding.
DAISY LANCASTER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Daisy retired as a cafeteria cook in CUSD7. She was an active member of the Gillespie United Methodist Church. She and her husband Bill enjoyed playing pinochle and watching their nine grand- and great grandchildren play sports.
Kennedy Helmkamp, daughter of Danielle and Robert Helmkamp, will attend Millikin University to study business.
J. E. LIBBRA FAMILY FARM SCHOLARSHIP
Married for 48 years, Joe, a hardworking grain and livestock farmer, and Eileen, a nurse, were dedicated to their four children. Today Mary Sievers, Joe Libbra, Trish Elking, and Carol Kramer, maintain this scholarship to honor their parents and give back to their community.
Hayleigh Otten, daughter of Elizabeth and Michael Otten of Gillespie, will attend the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis to study nursing.
DENIS AND MARGARET MCGRADY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Denis and Margaret Bee McGrady are honored by their nine children: Denis, Jr.; Connie Page; Mikey McPheters; Doug; Charlie; Barb Mathenia; Margaret Enlow; Murray; and Brian. Denis graduated from the University of Illinois Commerce and Law programs, returned to Gillespie and practiced law for almost 50 years. Both were known for their love of flower gardening, landscaping, and hospitality. Margaret, who passed in 2024 at age 98, was also a talented musician, seamstress, and interior designer.
Kaitlyn Spencer, daughter of Steven and Victoria Spencer of Gillespie, will attend Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville to study pre-law.
SCHMIDT-BARTON FAMILY FUND SCHOLARSHIP
John Schmidt and his wife Peg were the very first “partners” of The Partnership, generously stepping up to generously support our shared mission of improving educational opportunities for young people in CUSD7. John’s father, William E. Schmidt, Sr., and his wife Florence raised five children in Gillespie. William worked in a Gillespie bank for 20 years before joining the Columbia Quarry Company in 1932. Son John of Tucson, AZ passed away in 2025. He was president of their family Foundation but turned the reins over to his daughter Susan Hillkemeyer. After 33 years, the Schmidts are still one of our most generous and consistent supporters.
Elissa Plasters-Cline, daughter of Kellyn and Justin Peoples of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study accounting.
DAWN TILLEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Dawn Tilley was a paramedic with the Gillespie-Benld Area Ambulance Service. Dedicated to emergency care, she also worked on Dunn’s and Medstar ambulances. She was also an active local volunteer in children’s causes. “She would help anyone who needed anything,” says her family.
Corinne Fellin, daughter of Kathy and Chuck Fellin of Benld, will attend Lincoln Land Community College to study x-ray technology.
MICHAEL VALENTI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
This 1994 GHS graduate lost his life in a tragic accident. Michael had earned an associate degree at Lewis and Clark Community College and was continuing his education at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
Andrew Sellers, son of Dale and Brian Sellers of Benld, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study pre-dentistry.
VFW POST 4547 SCHOLARSHIP
The Partnership is pleased to offer a scholarship for a child or grandchild of a U.S. military veteran and/or a student who has committed to ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) in college. This scholarship is the result of a generous gift from the now disbanded Gillespie VFW Post 4547.
Haeden Kellebrew, son of Jake Kellebrew and Jessica Ross of Gillespie, will attend Lewis and Clark Community College to study pre-dentistry.
JOHN R. WOLFF MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
John was a 1963 graduate of GHS and a lifelong area farmer. He was the recipient of the FFA Farmer Degree. He aspired to witness younger generations uphold the tradition of acquiring knowledge of both the history and future of farming and the trades.
Braden Rauzi, son of Jennifer and Brad Rauzi of Gillespie, will attend Midwest Technology Institute in Springfield to study HVAC and electricity.
EVALINE BOEHMKE MUSICIANSHIP AWARDS
Evaline Boehmke of Gillespie was an ardent supporter of music. She left a bequest for $100 cash awards for students selected by the music faculty of GHS for their outstanding musicianship in band and chorus. This year the BAND winner is Kennedy Helmkamp, and the CHORUS winner is Tyler Swank.
The Partnership for Educational Excellence is an IRS-chartered 501(c)3 not-for-profit educational foundation. It also awards classroom grants to enhance curriculum. To donate or learn more, contact us at www.thepartnership7.org or P.O. Box 125, Gillespie IL 62033.
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Members of the Community Unit School District 7 Board of Education on Monday night voted to adopt an amended budget for the fiscal year that ended June 30, committed $189,000 in CEJA grant funds to partnering with the City of Gillespie to improve Plum Street, and reviewed ongoing and upcoming facilities improvement projects.
During a public hearing prior to the regular board meeting, Supt. Shane Owsley told the board an amended budget is required anytime “you spend even a penny” over what was initially budgeted for a specific fund. For the just concluded fiscal year, the district overspent the budget in the Bond & Interest Fund, Transportation Fund, and IMRF/Social Security Fund.
With funding uncertainties and uncertainty about when state payments will be received, Owsley said it is nearly impossible to draft a budget a year out that will be completely accurate at the end of the year. For example, at the time he was preparing the amended budget presentation, nearly $40,000 in state money had not been processed by the comptroller. That money did arrive on Monday but if it had come a day later, it would have been considered revenue for fiscal 2026.
Expenses from the Bond & Interest Fund exceeded the budget because a $500 service fee previously paid by the bond broker fell on the school district because of a change in state law. That unanticipated expense pushed expenditures to $1,120,974—$500 more than the $1,120,475 the board initially budgeted. The amended budget increases expenditures to $1,120,975. With $1,117,397.85 already received, the amended budget boosts revenues to $1,123,614.
Salary and benefits for additional support personnel, bus inspections, and additional expenses for contractural services boosted Transportation Fund expenditures to $892,631.25, nearly $60,000 more than the $836,090 initially budgeted. The amended budget approved Monday night increases the amount allotted for expenditures to $921,800.15, with revenue increased from $860,242 to $926,788, with $817,752 already received.
Owsley pointed out the amended budget allots $210,726 for bus driver salaries, compared with $190,000 initially budgeted. Salaries for special education drivers is increased from $81,357 to $115,374, while expenditures for bus aides salaries is increased from $79,833 to $102,759. Expenditures for special education transportation is increased from $7,150 to $7,650, and expenditures for inspections are increased from $1,500 to $2,000.
According to Owsley, expenditures from the IMRF/Social Security Fund exceeded the initial budget in part because of an increase in the IMRF employer rate that become effective Jan. 1. IMRF operates on a calendar year that does not coincide with the school district’s fiscal year. Additionally IMRF/Social Security expenses were influenced by higher than expected expenses for overtime and substitute teacher wages, new hires and position changes.
In total, the district spent $440,078 from the IMRF/Social Security Fund—about $60,000 over the $410,887 initially budgeted. The amended budget increases the expenditure line item to $472,402, with the revenue side increased from $219,308 to $219,846.
Owsley said he added a small contingency to the affected fund budgets “just in case something unexpected happens before July 1.”
The board is expected to get a first look at the new budget proposal for the current fiscal year in August with final approval usually coming in September.
CEJA GRANT
The board agreed with Owsley’s plan to commit about $89,000 in anticipated grant funds from the federal Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) to partner with the City of Gillespie to make improvements to Plum Street. The street has been a focus of discussion for the City Council for several months after the school district rerouted bus traffic to Plum to facilitate synchronizing starting times and dismissals at each of the district’s three attendance centers. City officials say the bus traffic over the past year has severely deteriorated the condition of the street, which was not designed to carryheavy traffic.
“There was talk that we would not be able to continue using Plum Street,” Owsley noted.
While no engineering has been done for the project, the expected price tag is expected to be in the range of $250,000. City officials have said the city cannot afford the improvements on its own and would require the school district’s participation to make the improvements. The project would likely include re-establishing a thicker base along with resurfacing.
The school board originally earmarked the CEJA funds to install more solar panels but agreed with Owsley to divert the money to the Plum Street project.
Owsley said he would ask the school attorney to draft an agreement clarifying that the district would be able to continue using the street for bus traffic in exchange for its financial participation.
PERSONNEL
Following an 80-minute executive session the board took extensive action in the area of personnel.
The board accepted the resignations of Jennifer Brown as high school prom sponsor, and Chase Peterson as a middle school cross-country coach. Vacancies were posted for both positions.
The board accepted the resignation of Mike Smith as a part-time bus driver, and appointed him as a substitute driver. Additionally, the board posted vacant positions for two full-route bus drivers, and exercised a Reduction In Force (RIF) to lay off half-time bus driver Jeff Nehls.
The board voted unanimously to hire Tom Turiglatto as a district custodian, pending a background check.
By a unanimous vote, the board agreed to post vacancies for three paraprofessional positions. Owsley said those hires could be or not be new positions depending upon final enrollment figures for the 2025-26 school year.
After some discussion, the board agreed to rehire coaches for middle school and high school sports programs. Board member Weye Schmidt briefly questioned rehiring Athletic Director Jeremy Smith as head coach for the high school baseball program. Schmidt said the board discussed whether or not Smith should continue his coaching duties while also serving as Athletic Director.
“I remember we said we would try it for a year and see how it worked out,” Schmidt said. As baseball coach, Smith is responsible for supervising upward of 30 games, board member Dennis Tiburzi commented.
Supt. Owsley said the roster of coaches proposed for rehires was approved by the high school principal.
Board President Mark Hayes said Monday night was the deadline for rehiring coaches. “You either have to hire him or fire him tonight,” Hayes said.
In addition to Smith, Tim Wargo, Dan Smith, Adam Tallman and Tate Wargo were rehired as assistant high school high school baseball coaches. Michelle Smith was rehired to coach high school softball, along with Jim Matesa, Joe Kelly and Melissa Heigert as assistant coaches. Jay Weber was rehired as head high school boys track coach, with Alex Ottersburg rehired as assistant coaches. The board rehired Korbin Clark to coach high school girls track with Ottersburg rehired to assist. Casey Fellin was rehired to coach high school girls soccer with Michael Otten rehired to assist. For high school bass fishing, the board rehired head coach Jake Kellebrew, JQ Hartman and Ryan Bossman rehired to assist. Chase Peterson was rehired to coach middle school boys track, while Jacob West was rehired to coach middles school girls track. Jarrod Herron was rehired to coach both middle school and high school scholar bowl.
EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE
On the advice of Supt. Owsley, the board agreed to contract with Blue Cross-Blue Shield to provide employee health care coverage for a period of 14 months with a premium increase of about nine percent. Owsley said the board was locked into choosing an insurance provider Monday night because the Teacher Retirement System requires teacher salaries and benefits to be documented before the end of July.
During the 14-month term of the newly approved policy, the Owsley and the board are likely to look further into the potential for entering into a self-insurance consortium. Under the plan, the school district would cover employees for up to $75,000 of medical expenses, after which the consortium would kick in to cover up to $300,000 in medical expenses. Anything above $300,000 would be covered by an umbrella policy.
Owsley said it could take five to eight years of expense experience to tailor the program specifically to meet CUSD 7 needs.
“This is a big thing in some states,” Owsley said. “With increased costs in pharmaceuticals and health care, this is seen by some as a way to combat rising costs. There’s more risk at the beginning, but it potentially could result in greater reward.”
FACILITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Owsley briefly reported on the status of a number of improvement projects at district facilities using grant funds and funds generated from the sale of alternate revenue bonds. Major projects already completed include a new intercom system at the middle school, new fire alarm system for the middle school and high school, new HVAC and lighting at the middle school, a key card system to control entry to the middle school and high school, and other projects.
For the current 2025-26 year, Owsley said plans are underway to install new playground equipment at the elementary school, paint the press boxes at the softball and baseball fields, install new window coverings for the elementary school gym, install lighting for the track and a sidewalk from the elementary school to the high school, and remove carpeting from high school classrooms.
Starting with the summer of 2026, the district plans to resurface the track, add new doors for the weight room, install new breezeway windows, and update the lights and ceiling in the GHS/GMS cafeteria. With the recommendation of Building Manager Brian Page, Owsley said the school will begin a program of annually inspecting building roofs and making minor repairs as needed with an objective to avoid major expenditures for roof replacement.
DISTRICT HANDBOOK
The board approved a Student Handbook for district students. Owsley said a major change include increasing the number of credits required for graduation from 23 to 24, requiring an additional science credit. To mitigate against impacting vocational programs, the district is designating Animal Science as a qualifying science course. Owsley said the graduation credit hike corresponds to other schools in the area. Carlinville requires 26 and Litchfield reportedly requires 25 credits for graduation.
The handbook also requires students to store cellphones in their locked lockers during class time. Previous policy allowed teachers to set their own policies regarding cellphones.
OTHER ACTION
In other action, the board:
- Awarded the 2025-26 food contract to Kohl Wholesale, Quincy.
- Approved a course description book that updates course offerings and includes classes offered through the South Central Illinois Regional Workforce Training and Innovation Center in Litchfield.
- Approved an intergovernmental transportation agreement with the Jersey Community School District to provide bus transportation for the CUSD 7 student who attends the Illinois School for the Deaf in Jacksonville.
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GILLESPIE, IL — For 28 years, the Gillespie community has demonstrated its unwavering dedication to supporting local students through the longstanding Project Kid Kare initiative. This heartfelt program ensures that children from kindergarten through high school start the school year equipped with the necessary supplies, thanks to the generosity of local residents and organizations.
Each year, more than 160 students benefit from the community’s kindness, receiving backpacks and tailored school supplies suited to their grade levels. The effort is a collaborative community effort, with donations helping to provide essential items such as notebooks, pencils, backpacks, and other supplies crucial for academic success.
The cost to outfit each student ranges from $20 to $25, making individual contributions vital to the program’s continued success. Community members are encouraged to help by donating within this range, with all contributions greatly appreciated.
Donations can be made conveniently at United Community Bank in Gillespie or sent directly to Project Kid Kare, Attention: Jody Dunn, at 340 Kelly Street, Gillespie, IL 62033. For questions or more information, individuals can contact Donna Easton at 217-556-3807.
As the new school year approaches, the community’s ongoing support serves as a powerful reminder that together, they can positively impact the educational journeys of local children. The generosity of Gillespie residents continues to foster an environment where every student has the tools they need to succeed.
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CARLINVILLE, Ill. (July 8, 2025) – Jenna Beck of Plainview has been named to the Blackburn College Dean’s List. Students named to the Dean’s List must earn a grade point average of 3.6 or higher for the semester. Beck earned this recognition for the Spring 2025 semester.
Founded in 1837, Blackburn College is a four-year, Presbyterian-related, co-educational liberal arts college located in Carlinville, IL. One of only ten federally recognized Work Colleges, Blackburn is the only Work Program in the nation managed by students. Balancing academic rigor and experiential learning, each student at Blackburn gains tangible experience and develops critical skills by contributing to their community, all while building a resume and earning their degree.
U.S. News & World Report has recognized Blackburn College as one of the best colleges in the Midwest region for 2025 and also earned rankings as a best-value school and a top performer for social mobility. The Washington Monthly ranked Blackburn as second overall among baccalaureate colleges in Illinois and first in Pell Grant student performance in 2024.
