The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Joy Swearingen, Quill correspondent
The Illini West High School board asked Superintendent Jay Harnack to get more information on a possible sports co-op between Illini West and Southeastern high schools.
Harnack told the board at their meeting March 19 that he had been approached by the Southeastern superintendent to gauge interest in a sports co-op.
“This is just a first step,” Harnack told the board. “They just want to determine if Illini West is interested in discussions with Southeastern regarding a potential sports co-op. This agenda item is exploratory only.”
The co-op could be for all sports, except possibly girls volleyball, where Southeastern has good numbers, Harnack reported.
“They are looking for something stable. They have had changes. As kids come up and work to make a team, they need to know it’s going to be there for them.”
The Illini West board wanted details on financial considerations, coaches, transportation, and if this would change the district’s 2A class status.
Board member Beth Webster said, “It will be easier to have a discussion if we have more information.”
“I’d like to hear more,” agreed board member Wyatt Green.
Harnack will work with the Southeastern superintendent to draw up a formal proposal for consideration at a future meeting.
A four-year technology lease was approved with American Capital Financial Services for $17,092.69 per year. The company would provide 24 HP ProOne 440 G9 computers, 12 HP Pro 400 G9 computers, and 24 HP G10 notebooks at a cost of $17,092.69 per year. The school would be responsible for the installation and maintenance of the equipment.
“Technology has become an integral part of everything we do. Every student has a device. Every staff member has at least one device,” Harnack said. “Keeping all those devices refreshed has been a fairly costly endeavor.”
When the district buys a large amount of devices, they can get a good price. When they must replace items in smaller amounts, leasing is a more practical choice. When they are finished they can return them. E-recycling has become more challenging.
The board approved the bid packet for the parking lot resurfacing project. Bids will be opened April 1 and acted on at the April meeting.
Following executive session, the board approved issuing a notice for remedy to IWHS teacher David Mueller.
Three-year contracts were approved, extending the employment of Principal Amanda Congdon and Director of Student Services Grant Surprenant through the school year 2028.
The following coaches were approved for the 2025-2026 school year:
Two overnight trip requests were approved. Twelve students will attend the State Science Olympiad at McHenry College in Crystal Lake on April 25 and 26, supervised by teacher M.J. Palmer. The varsity and JV girls basketball teams will participate in a summer shootout at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo., June 16-17, supervised by coach Grant Surprenant.
The board renewed membership in the Illinois High School Association. The 2025-2026 District Consolidated Plan was approved.