The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Illini West continues to build a fine staff by hiring new employees at each school board meeting.
According to this week's press release, Terry Owings was offered a job as high school secretary and Mike Russell and Carol Walker were being asked to stay on as the custodians for the newly converged high schools of Carthage, Dallas City, and La Harpe.
Illini West is still seeking a third full-time custodian, the release said.
The board voted to allow support staff to bring forward any uncompensated sick days and vacation leave based on seniority in their current district.
Part-time certified staff to be shared with the Carthage Elementary district included Diane Pepple, Linda Hartweg, Sarah Mueller and Kelly Nagel.
Part-time certified staff working for Illini West included Joe Dion, Marcia McGaughey, and Michael Carson. Deanne Clark was hired to provide school psychologist services one day a week. Zak Huston will be offered the position of athletic director.
Faculty sponsors for various clubs and activities were assigned with three new clubs being added, a science club, a history club and an international club. The board is still open to suggestions for other student organizations. The board also voted to add a scholastic clay target team at minimal cost to the district upon approval from their liability insurance carrier.
Joy Swearingen spoke briefly to the board about a photographic history book being created by the Journal-Pilot staff based on the history of Carthage, Dallas City and La Harpe school districts.
The Chargers Sports Boosters was given permission to provide concessions at athletic events.
The Illini West board has narrowed the portable classroom selection to two companies, Innovative Modular Solutions and Jim's Mobiles. The portable classroom committee hopes to have a suggestion by the next board meeting. They also hope to have a finalized lease for the rest of the high school building with the Carthage Elementary District.
Board members also enjoyed a delightful fashion show showcasing new Charger uniforms to be ordered.
The next Illini West board meeting will be May 9th in the Methode Electronics board room. It will be the final meeting that Dr. Harold Ford will preside over as Mike Mauzy is eager to begin his position as the leader for this newly formed district. Board members expressed gratitude for Dr. Ford's dedication and expertise during the formation of Illini West.