The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
By David Grimes, Quill Correspondent
Following nearly 1-1/2 hours of executive session, Union School Board members approved the expulsion of a male junior for violation of school policy as well as state and federal statutes regarding possession of a weapon on school grounds at their January 16 meeting.
Superintendent Dean Irlbeck said the 18-month expulsion for student C would come with the opportunity for him to continue his education through the PASS program if he so desires. After 6 months, he may return to Union on a probationary basis and at the superintendent's discretion.
No criminal charges were filed, Irlbeck said.
Miller was absent.
The board also set the graduation date for the Union Class of 2002. Commencement exercises will take place at 2 p.m. at the high school on Sunday, May 19.
Eighth grade graduation will follow later that week, although no specific date was set.
Staff presentations in the areas of language arts, reading, writing, spelling, speech, English and Spanish were made by Erin Crawford, high school Spanish; Lara Kendell, high school English; Penny Rowan, high school English; Nancy Chandler, fifth and sixth grade Language Arts and Steve Arnold, 7th and 8th grade English.
Discussion on transportation matters under old business and on reviewing curriculum handbooks and course fees under new business was tabled until a future meeting date.
In his principal's report, Fred Nestler told the board "the Yellow Dress," a play dealing with domestic violence, has been scheduled to be performed in April. Southern students will also attend. The Domestic Violence Grant and Project Success contributions will fund the performance.
Students are preparing projects for Science Olympiad at WIU February 9, and Dating Violence Assembly is scheduled for February 8.
The District Spelling Bee is scheduled for February 6, with the County Spelling Bee slated for February 21.
In her principal's report, Pat Collins told the board report cards should be printed and passed out by Friday, January 25, and curriculum is being reviewed and enhanced for next school year.
In other business, the board approved the awarding of a high school diploma to discharged veteran Richard Link, Oquawka, and agreed to continue in discussions with Roseville and Southern school districts on possible consolidation options.
Business following executive session included:
The next board meeting is February 6 at 6:30 p.m