Shane Gordon

The meeting commenced with special recognitions for Board Member Appreciation Day and highlighted achievements of high school students, including Illinois State Scholars and Daughters of the Revolution recipients. Administrative reports detailed community service efforts, such as canned food drives benefiting the Blue Mound Food Pantry, and academic accomplishments by middle and elementary school students. Key actions taken included the approval of the Consent Agenda, which covered previous meeting minutes and financial reports, and the acceptance of a volleyball coach's resignation. In New Business, the Board approved the Tentative 2025 Tax Levy and a facility request from Studio B. Discussion items included a budget update, preliminary review of 2026 meeting dates, notification of a $50,000 matching grant for facility improvements (roofing and gutters), and review of a PRESS Policy update. Significant discussion centered on the potential addition of wrestling as a high school sport, with a decision slated for the December meeting. Personnel actions included the approval of a Paraprofessional, two bus drivers, and an increase in substitute pay from $15 to $18 per hour.

The Board discussed administrative reports including student honors, upcoming school activities, and the progress of the district work program. Actions taken included the approval of February disbursements, the processing of staff resignations and retirements, and the authorization of a facility request for the Meridian Youth League. Additionally, the Board approved the 2026-2027 school calendar, a joint agreement with the Macon-Piatt Special Education District, and the declaration of a district vehicle as excess property. Personnel items approved included the appointment of a new Student Services Coordinator and several athletic coaching positions, as well as a performance evaluation for the Superintendent.

The regular meeting included recognizing First Semester High School Board Scholars. Administrative reports covered the success of the annual Cakes for Cause basketball game, which raised over $16,000 for charity, Meridian hosting the 7th-grade boys' basketball state tournament, maintenance updates including carpet tile installation and outdoor building construction, staff wellness institute activities, and recognizing middle school students who achieved maximum performance in the IX program. The high school also received a $1000 check from a Pepsi promotion. New business included approving a PRESS Policy Update and the recommendation to purchase a replacement 2019 Ford F-250 vehicle. Discussion topics involved the Budget Update, the Macon-Piatt Special Education Joint Agreement update, and concerns related to Richland Community College's program allowing female prisoners to attend classes on campus. During the open session following executive session, the Board approved appointments for high school girls' track coach and basketball volunteer assistant, and approved a recommended bonus for the maintenance director.

The regular board meeting included presentations summarizing the recent annual Board Conference experiences. Administrative reports noted the conclusion of semester exams and upcoming staff return with wellness and training sessions. Committee updates covered spring coaching evaluations, football survey results, and a recommendation for the addition of wrestling to high school athletics. The Finance Committee report included updates on district investments, budget projections, the 2025 Tax Levy, and Bond Abatement. The Transportation & Building Committee reported on the nearing completion of the HVAC system and insulation work on the Maintenance Building. The Board approved the 2026 Board Meeting Schedule, the 2025 Tax Levy, a tax abatement resolution, and a $50,000 matching grant for facility improvements. The addition of High School Wrestling for the 2026-2027 school year was approved. A budget analysis confirmed the current year is on track. The Policy committee is scheduled to discuss Policy Update 120 before the next meeting. The Board also discussed pursuing quotes for repairs or replacement of a white diesel truck necessary for snow removal. Following an executive session regarding employment, property, legal matters, student discipline, and negotiations, the Board approved coaches for the 2026-2027 school year.

The meeting commenced with the appointment of the School Board President to preside over a hearing. The Board subsequently entered an executive session to discuss matters pertaining to student discipline. Upon returning to open session, the Board voted to expel Student A for the remainder of the 2025-2026 school year, with the expulsion held in abeyance pending the student's successful completion of an alternative program of study.