Community News
School board votes to seek school improvement day waiver, approves audit and accepts insurance bids
Community Unit School District 7 will seek a school code waiver allowing it to conduct three full-day school improvement days in lieu of six half-day sessions required by the state’s school code after the Board of Education voted Monday night to formally seek the exemption. The action followed a brief public hearing at the start of the board’s regular monthly meeting during which Supt. Shane Owsley outlined the request. Owsley said the administration had already written to local legislators and to the teachers union to advise them of the district’s intention. The public hearing was a final formality before seeking the waiver.
Owsley told the board he wanted to “modify” the school code requirement for six half-day school improvement days to have three full-day sessions instead.
“With our staggered start times, we’re seeing that a half day doesn’t leave a lot of time for instruction,” Owsley said. “In addition, those are days with a lot of student absence and a lot of staff absence because people make appointments on those days.”
Full-day school improvement days, he argued, would provide additional time for professional development, and facilitate engaging speakers and presenters for professional development. Per state statute, the district would still be able to count those days as student attendance days, while eliminating the cost of bussing students to and from school. It also would reduce the need to hire substitute teachers on the days half-day training is scheduled. Owsley also said the change would benefit parents by allowing them to plan for three full days of alternative supervision for their children instead of six half days.
“I see a lot of benefits for our kids, our parents and our staff,” Owsley said.
Tentatively, the three full-day sessions would be scheduled immediately before the first day of student attendance, with one in October and one during the second semester.
Owsley said the Jerseyville School District already has secured permission to modify the code requirement. If Gillespie succeeds in winning approval, he said he expects other districts in the area will follow suit.
Board members voted unanimously to seek the waiver on a motion by Kelli Vesper, seconded by Amanda Ross. The application now goes to the Illinois State Board of Education and Regional Office of Education for review before being submitted to the state legislature for final approval. If the legislature approves the application, the waiver will be valid for five years.
ANNUAL AUDIT
Board members unanimously voted to accept the annual audit, a summary of which was presented by Ken Loy of Loy Miller Talley CPAs, Alton. Loy described the audit as a “clean audit” with no major findings. The audit includes three “clean opinion” letters from the auditors—one regarding the audit in general, one referring to internal controls and compliance regarding bonds, and one referring to the district’s handling of federal funds.
Based on the audit, Loy said the school district will received a financial rating of 3.7 points out of 4, resulting in “Recognition” status. Recognition status is the highest level in the State Board of Education’s rating system.
Loy said the most recent fiscal year was “the second good year in a row for the district,’ compared with previous years.
“Things are a little better now with the one percent sales tax revenue, evidence-based state funding (which benefits rural districts) and increases in the districts equalized assessed valuation,” he said.
Loy said only two funds saw expenditures exceed revenue for fiscal year 2023. Transportation posted a deficit of $23,670, due primarily to fact buses ordered by the district during the previous fiscal year were not delivered until after the start of the 2023 fiscal year. Capital Projects also posted a very slight deficit of $4,574. All other funds ended the year with surplus funds, and most funds were within a few percentage points of what was budgeted for them.
In total, Loy said the district ended the fiscal year $1.38 million in the black.
Property tax revenue was up somewhat, even though the tax rate went down due to a significant increase in the district’s total equalized assessed valuation.
The total equalized assessed valuation for the district was $95.3 million, Loy said, an increase of about 9.3 percent.
“That’s a big increase in the EAV for a school district,” he said. “But tax levies can only go up so much due to tax caps, which means the tax rate goes down when the EAV goes up.” The rate actually fell from $3.80 per $100 in EAV two years ago to $3.48 last fiscal year. The county collected and distributed 99.6 percent of what was sent out in tax bills, Loy said, resulting in revenue of $3,129,179 in local property tax revenue.
Emergency federal funding resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic boosted federal funding for the district to a total of $2.5 million. Federal funds accounted for about 14 percent of the district’s revenue, compared with seven or eight percent a few years ago. Those emergency funds, however, are expected to dry up this fiscal year, and federal funding is expected to drop back to $1 or $1.2 million..
Auditors calculated the per capita cost of education at $10,772—up from $9,452 the previous year. The increase was attributed to inflation, but also stagnant student enrollment.
“A lot of districts are hitting record lows for enrollment,” Loy said. “There are not as many children in rural areas as a few years ago.”
Owsley reported auditors from Loy Miller Talley CPAs spent three days in the district last summer to review financial documents. He thanked Loy for continuing to do perform the audit while other firms are backing away from school district work because of stringent requirements and peculiarities of school district accounting. He said school districts statewide are scambling to find qualified auditing firms and some are still waiting for audits to be completed for fiscal 20223.
INSURANCE
Following the recommendation of Rick Sedlak of Schmale Insurance, Belleville, the board voted to switch the district’s property coverage from EMC Insurance to Wright Specialty, a firm specializing in insuring school districts. EMC, the company that insured the district’s property for the past three years, planned to raise premiums by $30,000, from $188,000 to $222,000. Wright will provide virtually the same coverage for an annual premium of $166,028.
In a separate action, the board renewed its policy with Zenith Insurance for workers compensation coverage at a cost of $53,860, down from $56,262 last year. Board members also voted to renew excess mine subsidence/earthquake insurance with Axis Insurance to cover the first $10 million in damage, Sompo to cover the next $5 million in damage and Markel Insurance to cover up to $5 million in damage exceeding $15 million. The total premiums for excess mine subsidence coverage if $202,084—about $30,000 more than the $170,6334 th district paid last year.
In aggregate, the district will pay $368,112 for property insurance and excess mine subsidence coverage, compared with $359,334 last year.
“If you stay with EMC and renew your excess mine subsidence insurance, you’re going to be up about $65,000,” Sedlak reported.
Sedlak said his firm received only two bids after reaching out to five national insurers. The second bidder, Illinois Counties Risk Management Trust, a consortium of more than 400 public bodies in Illinois, offered a bid of $146,982 but with significantly less coverage.
“We’re in a hard market for property insurance,” Sedlak said. “We’re in a high tornado/high hail area., and you have lots of property value. For those reasons, a lot of companies don’t want to quote.”
Sedlak said part of the challenge was to find a carrier that would offer adequate coverage for mine subsidence and earthquake damage. EMC, the district’s current insurer, offered full coverage for earthquake damage, while Wright Specialty’s policy limits coverage to $15 million. Illinois Counties Risk Management Trust capped coverage for earthquake damage at $5 million, less than 10 percent of the district’s total property value.
While Wright’s earthquake coverage is lower than the district’s current provider, Sedlak said that difference is somewhat mitigated with the district’s excess mine subsidence insurance, which also covers earthquake damage. Coupled with the excess mine subsidence policies, the district will have coverage to a limit of $35 million.
“That’s more than half of your property value,” Sedlak said. “You’re in a moderate zone for earthquake risks,” he said. “You could have damage to buildings but you shouldn’t have buildings collapse.”
Sedlak said an $8,000 increase in premiums for property insurance “is unheard of in today’s market.” Moreover, he said Wright Specialty’s rate could end up being lower than what was quoted after the company does its own independent appraisal of the value of the district’s assets. Sedlak said he estimated “on the high side” for bidding purposes, setting the value of the district’s buildings at $67 million.
PERSONNEL
Following a 70-minute executive session, the board voted unanimously to accept the resignation of district custodian Tommy Richards, effective immediately and posted the position as vacant. The board also accepted “with regret” the resignation of Mike Bertagnolli as high school men’s track and field coach.
The board also approved a maternity leave for first-grade teacher Sydney Owsley, who is unrelated to the Superintendent, from approximately Feb 24, 2024, through April 20, 2024.
OTHER ACTION
In other action, the board:
- Heard brief reports regarding BenGil Elementary’s Fall Family Fun Days program, the first Athletic Wall of Fame banquet and induction ceremony, and a report on how elementary teachers are using data points to refine teaching strategies to ensure students meet state standards in specific subject areas.
- Voted to ratify changes to the South Macoupin Association for Special Education’s Joint Agreement to remove Bunker Hill School District from the agreement, and revise fees from a per-student-based structure to a single fee per participating school. Owsley said the fee change will benefit CUSD 7 by reducing the amount it pays into the consortium.
- Voted to accept a change to the district handbook to include specific consequences for violating the district’s cell phone policy. Owsley said some students cited for using cell phones questioned their punishment because it isn’t specifically outlined in the current handbook.
- Accepted a Health Life Safety survey for BenGil Elementary School. The survey is required every 10 years, and 2023 is the tenth year since the school was built.
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FELONIES
Trey W. Fenton, 34 of Mount Olive, is charged with residential burglary, burglary without causing damage, and criminal damage to property (<$500) in connection with a November 3 incident.
Peyton R. Pehrson, 26 of Benld, is charged with two counts of aggravated DUI/license suspended or revoked, DUI/BAC 0.08, DUI, driving on a suspended license, driving 21-25 mph above the limit, expired registration, disregarding a stop sign, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with a November 6 incident.
MISDEMEANORS
John M. Molinar, 40 of Staunton, is charged with criminal trespass to residence in connection with a November 2 incident.
TRAFFIC
Robert M. Keffer, 38 of Benld, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 25 incident.
Haidyn D. Branson, 25 of Hettick, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 25 incident.
Asa M. Proctor, 47 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 28 incident.
Rodjai A. Johnson, 21 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a suspended license and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an October 27 incident.
Amber L. Burgess, 45 of Staunton, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 23 incident.
Shane C. Chance, 29 of Carlinville, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with an October 28 incident.
Jerry J. Wilson, 77 of Carlinville, is charged with canceled/revoked/suspended registration in connection with an October 30 incident.
Shannon J. Ward, 44 of Modesto, is charged with improper use of registration/title, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and being unlicensed in connection with an October 28 incident.
Blake D. Roberts, 28 of Carlinville, is charged with driving on a revoked license, unlawful use of cannabis/driver, and display plate attachment in connection with an October 30 incident.
Shota Gagelidze, 44 of Downers Grover, is charged with speeding 26-34 mph over the limit in connection with a November 1 incident.
Christopher P. Smith, 39 of Chesterfield, MO, is charged with driving on a revoked license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and no valid registration in connection with an October 26 incident.
Chad C. Baumann, 54 of Chicago, is charged with driving on a suspended license and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an October 27 incident.
David A. Rithe, 44 of Benld, is charged with driving on a suspended license, driver failing to give notice of a crash, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and failure to reduce speed in connection with an October 29 incident.
Donald E. Bruhn, 66 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with an October 29 incident.
DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE FILED
- Rocky Lyle Smith versus Rebecca Lee Smith
MARRIAGE LICENSES
- Tyler Luke Semplowski of Peoria and Margaret Anne Moore of Gillespie
- Craig Charles Wicker and Cheryl A. Scroggins, both of Staunton
- Jacob William Feeley and Kaitlin Marie Moore, both of Plainview
- Peyton Scott Hudspeth and Macy Danielle Rhodes, both of Divernon
- Cody Stephen Bradley and Savannah Michelle Norris, both of Auburn
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Walnut Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Henrietta Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to a 911 call.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 2300 block of Staunton Road in Mt. Clare in reference to a theft.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Oak Street in reference to an animal call.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Baker Street in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer initiated a traffic stop in the 200 block of North Hard Road in Benld. Mandy V. Aldridge, 44 of Benld, was issued a citation for driving a vehicle with suspended registration.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Kentucky Street and Central Avenue in Benld. Stormee M. Lyons, 32 of Benld, was issued citations for operating an uninsured motor vehicle and operating a vehicle while using an electronic device.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Lincoln Street and Edgar Street in Eagarville. Tony L. Law, 58 of Benld, was issued citations for operating an uninsured vehicle, no valid driver’s license, and expired registration.
An Officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 200 block of Southern Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2025
An officer was out with a vehicle in the 300 block of East Central in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was out with a subject in the 100 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Frey Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer spoke with a juvenile at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a dispute in the 500 block of West Baker Street.
An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Madison Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Broadway Street. Seth E. Bruhn, 45 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for operating a vehicle with expired registration.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the Gillespie Police Department to speak with a female in reference to a domestic battery in the 400 block of South Kentucky Street in Benld. Devon W. Pulley, 18 of Benld, was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Walnut Street in Benld in reference to an animal complaint. Kussandra D. Hildebrand, 30 of Benld, was issued a citation for a dog at large.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Shelby Street in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North Illinois Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Main Street in Benld. Crystal D. Bryant, 37 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for speeding.
An officer was dispatched to Calcari Street in East Gillespie in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 100 block of South Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to criminal trespass.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 200 block of Southern Street in reference to criminal trespass. Melissa J. Hughes, 50 of Gillespie, was arrested on a Montgomery County warrant for failure to appear for theft, and she was also issued a citation for criminal trespass.
An officer dispatched to Cedar Street and Macoupin Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to Route 4 and Route 138 in Mt. Clare in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Dorsey Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to Frey Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.
An officer was dispatched to Henry Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and 2nd Street in Benld. Alec T. Laughlin, 20 of Livingston, was issued citations for operating an uninsured vehicle and suspended registration.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to a security check.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a motorist assist.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South Main Street in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 1200 block of South Second Street in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to the Gillespie Police Department to take a report of fraud in the 600 block of West Oak Street.
An officer was out in the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 200 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of Central Avenue in Benld in reference to a suspicious person.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Spruce Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Montgomery Street in reference an animal complaint.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Staunton Road and Henrietta Street. Jackeline K. Hernandez-Montufar, 24 of Beardstown, was issued citations for no valid driver’s license and operating an uninsured vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Trolley Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle in their driveway.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Pine in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to Route 138 by Benld Cemetery in Benld in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to an ordinance issue.
An officer was dispatched to Osie Street and Madison Street in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was out on 5th Street and Locust Street in Benld in reference to suspicious circumstances.
An officer was out on the 200 block of West Locust Street in Benld in reference to a security check.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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In a decisive finish that underscored his rising dominance in Illinois Class 1A cross country, senior Chaz Oberkfell of Gillespie High School claimed the state title with a time of 14:31.10 at the IHSA State Cross Country Championships held at Detweiller Park on Saturday, November 8.
Finishing just behind Oberkfell, sophomore Evan Knobloch of Toulon (Stark County) crossed the line in 14:46.25, placing second. Rounding out the top five were senior Blake McLeese of Tuscola (14:46.45), senior Luca Bryja of Elgin (Harvest Christian Academy) with 14:48.38, and senior Elijah Teefey of Pleasant Plains at 14:49.02.
This victory marks Oberkfell’s second IHSA Class 1A state championship. He also won the state crown as a junior in 2024 with a time of 14:31.87. In his sophomore year, he finished 21st with a 15:21.43 season-best time.
Looking ahead, Oberkfell is set to compete in the New Balance NXR Midwest Regional Championships on Sunday, November 16, at the LaVerne Gibson Course in Indiana. The meet serves as a critical stepping stone toward the national championships, and Oberkfell will look to carry his state momentum into the regional stage.
