The Mt. Pulaski CUSD #23 Board of Education met on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in the Mt. Pulaski High School Learning Center. Six board members were present, with one absent.
Good News
Senior of the Month: Sophia Buenrostro was recognized as the October Senior of the Month. Sophia is involved in FCCLA Parliamentary Procedure, co-op, and cheerleading, and is known for her positive attitude and leadership.
Athlete of the Month: No athlete was selected for October.
District Highlights & Reports
High School
Principal Fricke shared that Homecoming Week was a huge success, with well-attended events and strong student engagement. The Career Fair provided valuable real-world experiences for students and local employers. Departments reviewed MAP data and sent personalized reports to families. The lockdown drill and Parent-Teacher Conferences went smoothly, with many parents attending alongside their students to discuss academic progress.
Grade School
Principal Lora reported a successful lockdown drill and a record-breaking book fair that raised over $5,000 during conferences. Primary grades enjoyed their annual Pumpkin Patch trip, and 5th graders visited the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago through the Woods Foundation. Staff members Mrs. Lora, Ms. Payne, and Ms. Awe also presented at a MAP conference.
Curriculum
Curriculum Director Smith introduced the Numeracy Plan, a voluntary initiative focused on math instruction, targeted interventions, and professional development. The plan complements the state-mandated Literacy Plan and promotes instructional equity. The math curriculum adoption process will mirror the literacy rollout, and teachers expressed satisfaction with their current materials. Ongoing review will ensure continued effectiveness.
Activities
Interim Activities Director Spang shared that Veterans Park is nearing completion. The irrigation, seeding, and sound system are complete, with handicap parking and additional parking (82 new spaces) being finalized by the end of October. MPGS will host the 8th Grade Girls Basketball Regional, and both cross-country and soccer will compete in regionals. Mr. Wilham raised a concern about junior high girls’ basketball uniforms still featuring blue and white colors.
Board Actions
The Board unanimously approved the following actions:
Board Governance Protocols: The board adopted updated governance protocols following a training session with IASB representative Patrick Allen. The board will co-present with Lyons Township at the Joint Annual Conference in Chicago.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance Renewal: Approved with a modest 5.8% rate increase, ensuring stability for staff coverage.
Estimated Expenses for the IASB Joint Annual Conference: Approved. Superintendent Spang, Mrs. Lora, and Mrs. Fricke will attend.
Joint Committee Appointment: Superintendent Spang and Mrs. Kathy Tschantz were reappointed to the Joint Committee for Honorary Dismissals, a required annual action.
Personnel Report:
Resignations: Johnathan Jordan (Activities Director), Gale Clark (Track & Field Coach)
New Hires/Assignments:
Cortnee Worthington – MPGS Paraprofessional
Tricia Campbell – MPHS Head Track Coach
Victoria Moffett – MPHS Scholastic Bowl Sponsor
Ryan Davis – MPGS Boys Basketball Coach
Addendum to Superintendent Contract: Discussion tabled for next month.
Discussion Items
2025 Tax Levy: Superintendent Spang reviewed the upcoming timeline for the tax levy, with a more detailed presentation to come in November.
Activities Director Vacancy: The board discussed potential adjustments related to this role’s responsibilities.
Veterans Park Improvements: Lighting and accessibility projects are ongoing, with final touches expected soon.
Superintendent’s Report
Superintendent Spang shared several updates:
Attended an active shooter drill at LJHS, praising the coordination and realism of the exercise.
Energy Transition Community Grant (Phase 1) is completed; the district awaits funding results, Phase 2 Award Letter.
Introduced a new recognition coin program called The Hilltopper Medallion to honor students, staff, and community members who “Inspire, Engage, and Empower.”
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:01 p.m. after a brief return to executive session, with no further action taken.