The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
The financial picture of Illini West High School continues to be solid, according to the annual financial report presented during the regular board meeting on Jan. 21.
“Overall, the district is in excellent financial condition,” stated the conclusion of the financial summary.
The district earned an ISBE Financial Profile Designation of Recognition with a total score of 4.00, which is the highest possible rating.
Balances in all key funds have increased. “As needed” fund balances (Tort and IMRF/SS) have remained flat to maintain a consistent tax rate, according to the report.
The most recent tax rate at $1.89, is the second lowest in the district’s history. It was $1.88 in 2023, and topped at $2.03 in 2014. The district formed in 2007.
“This was another strong year for us financially, with a focus on preparing us, if we ever get the opportunity, to address our unhoused (students) situation,” said Superintendent Jay Harnack. He commended Michelle Monroe for the job she does as a one-person bookkeeper for the district with a multi-million dollar budget.
“We have the same findings every year, as a small district, with not enough people with eyes on the finances. Every district with one superintendent and one bookkeeper gets the same thing,” Harnack said.
The proposed 2026-27 school calendar was approved. The calendars of Illini West and their three elementary school districts are closely aligned, with the exception of an occasional half day teacher training based on some individual district contractual obligations, Harnack said.
The first day of student attendance for the 2026-27 school year is Wednesday, Aug. 19. The last scheduled day of school is a half day on Wednesday, May 19, 2027.
Harnack praised the collaboration among the elementary schools and Illini West to improve the alignment of non-attendance days.
The first reading of the transportation handbook revisions was approved. Harnack said this reading is for content. The second part will add standard operating procedures.
After closed session, the board approved hiring Jessica Rogers as assistant softball coach and Dart Todd as a volunteer baseball coach for the 2026 spring season. Mia Freyermuth was hired as assistant volleyball coach effective for the 2026-27 school year.
Harnack reported he has received three bids for a split unit heating system in the new varsity girls’ locker room. One of the bids did not include electrical work needed for the project.
Rather than delay the vote, the board approved a motion to accept the low bid of the three, once electrical costs are calculated with the third bid.
The area that is now a locker room had been used previously as office space and storage, and did not have a complete system of ducts for heating.
Harnack reported the asbestos abatement and recarpeting in the office area was completed during Christmas break.