The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
The West Central Community Unit School District #235 Board of Education held its regular meeting on April 15, 2025, in the elementary cafeteria, addressing community partnerships, personnel changes, and future initiatives.
Board President Schaley led the meeting, which showcased the district’s dedication to student success and community engagement.
The meeting began with “Good News Items” celebrating district accomplishments. Country Financial Insurance provided drinks and snacks to staff as a gesture of appreciation, while Raritan State Bank partnered with West Central Elementary (WCE) for Community Banking Month, hosting fourth-grade students and sponsoring a coloring contest.
Mrs. Ackermann’s coin collection challenge to support the Henderson County Public Library was highlighted, embodying the theme, “A Little Change Makes A Big Difference.”
The board recognized 59 staff members for April Rise and Shine Awards, honoring their contributions across various roles. Senior Addie Seitz was celebrated for her 800th strikeout in softball, with expectations of further milestones.
On March 27, motivational speaker Damon West delivered tailored messages to students across grade levels, inspiring the school community.
The board unanimously approved the consent agenda, including minutes from prior meetings, bill payments, activity accounts, the March 2025 Treasurer’s Report, and a proclamation for National Teacher Appreciation Week. Key discussions included:
FOIA Requests: The district responded to 10 Freedom of Information Act requests from ACB for vendor payment data from 1995 to 2024, part of a statewide AI-driven request, meeting all required timelines.
Summer Board Retreat: Superintendent Day will coordinate with the Henderson County Public Library to schedule a summer retreat for strategic planning.
Wrestling Program Proposal: The board discussed launching a high school wrestling program for the 2025-2026 school year, with cost estimates to be presented at the next meeting.
Strategic Plan Update: Superintendent Day presented the updated five-year Strategic Plan, shaped by a December stakeholder survey, with the District Team now developing actionable steps.
Community Eligibility Provision (CEP): The board reviewed the district’s eligibility for CEP, which provides free breakfast and lunch to all students.
Although 43% of students qualify, participation would lead to an estimated $7,000 monthly reimbursement loss, raising concerns about the program’s funding stability.
The board approved declaring two art kilns as surplus and setting the 2025-2026 registration and technology fees.
No action was taken on The Heat Index district magazine, which will be revisited next meeting alongside the elementary playground and wrestling program.
In a closed session, the board addressed personnel, negotiations, and student matters.
Personnel actions included: Rehiring winter coaches for West Central Middle School (WCMS) and West Central High School (WCHS), except for Tyler Klossing (WCHS Head Basketball Coach) and Kayla Johnson (WCMS 6th Grade Volleyball Coach).
Approving new appointments: Chris Ervin and Michelle Johnson as long-term substitutes, Shelby Johnson as K-8 District Music Teacher, and Jennifer Shimmin as WCHS Physical Education Teacher.
Acknowledging Erin Clark’s resignation as WCMS 8th Grade Volleyball Coach and terminating Crystal Mabe as District Custodian.
Approving two Memorandums of Understanding with the West Central Association of Teachers (WCATS).
Denying a request from student number 25020 to participate in graduation.
Present at the meeting were Board Members Bigger, Clark, Gullberg, Higgins, Schaley, and Vancil, along with Superintendent Day, J. Shultz, K. Lafary, B. Taylor, B. Kugler, B. Helt, J. Kirby, and J. Hennings. Board Member Chockley was absent.
The April minutes were approved on May 21. The next board meeting is scheduled for June 18, at 6:00 p.m. in the Elementary Cafeteria.