West Central School Board Approves $7.3M Tax Levy

The West Central Board of Education held its regular meeting on December 17, 2025, in the elementary cafeteria at the district’s campus in Biggsville. President Brendan Schaley called the meeting to order at 6:14 p.m., with a quorum established despite absences from board members Lauren Chockley (arrived 7:16 p.m.), Josh Higgins (arrived 7:34 p.m.), and Dillan Vancil. Superintendent Stacey Day and other administrators and staff were in attendance. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Celebrating Student and Staff Successes

The board highlighted several “Good News” items to start the evening on a positive note. West Central High School (WCHS) proudly recognized two Illinois State Scholars for outstanding academic achievement: Teegan Rodeffer and Delaney Endress. The district’s annual music concerts were described as “amazing,” showcasing student talent. Teacher Mr. Brooks received a $150 award from Valley Propane for classroom projects. A $175 donation was received to support student lunch accounts.

The West Central PTC (Parent-Teacher Club) was commended for its fundraising efforts toward a new playground, having raised over $50,000 in recent years through events like “Drinks at Drop Off” and auctioning front-row concert seats. The group aims for $125,000 total and plans additional initiatives, including brick sales and business sponsorships starting in the new year.

December’s “Our District. Our Legacy.” recognitions honored numerous staff members for their contributions, including Amy Chandler, Betty Mynatt, Chad Ellison, Coach Kelley, Emily Klossing, the high school and middle school kitchen staffs, and Superintendent Stacey Day, among many others.

Routine Approvals and Updates

The board approved the agenda and the consent agenda, which included November meeting minutes, bill payments, activity accounts, the treasurer’s report, and Press Plus Issue 120 policy updates. No public comments were received. Superintendent Day reported one FOIA request since the prior meeting from Stephanie Bernake regarding the district magazine and contracts with the Forgottonia Times which was fulfilled promptly. Board members and Day shared insights from the Triple I Conference in November, covering rural school advocacy, IHSA updates, accountability, and inspiring keynotes.

Key Project and Financial Updates

The playground project advanced, with the committee finalizing equipment plans for PTC purchase (taking advantage of year-end discounts) and district-funded surfacing. Fundraising continues. The Building and Grounds Committee, updated by member Karl Gullberg, met with architects on summer 2026 projects: middle school windows, high school courtyard windows and roof, elementary playground surface, and exterior door replacements. Bids are expected in February/March for spring approval. On reserves, Day explained the new ISBE requirement to compare fund balances to three-year average expenditures in Education, Operations & Maintenance, and Transportation funds. The district’s ratio of 0.967 falls well below the 2.5 threshold, so no reduction plan is needed. Principals (Kathy Lafary, Brittney DeWeese, Jason Kirby), Technology Coordinator Jeremy Hennings, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director Stacey Kreps, Special Education Coordinator Mallory Allen, and Librarian Tiffany Ouellette presented reports.

Major Actions Taken

The board approved the 2025 tax levy at $7,289,779 (excluding bonds), with supporting unaudited fund balances provided (e.g., Fund 10 at over $8 million). The vote was unanimous 5-0. WCHS FFA trips to Des Moines, Iowa, and Columbia, Missouri, were approved unanimously. After closed session (7:34 p.m. to 9:22 p.m.) for personnel and negotiations discussions, the board reconvened and approved fall coach rehires. This includes: 

High School

• Varsity Volleyball - Stephanie Higgins

• JV Volleyball - Jacinda Hill

• Head Golf - Jackie Biggs

• Asst. Golf - Carrie Todd

• Head Football - Jason Kirby

• Asst. Football - Steve Arnold

• Asst. Football - Tom • Williams

• Asst. Football - Austin Bigger

•Football Cheerleading - Open due to resignation

Middle School

• Head Football - EJ Santos

• Asst. Football - Chris Root

• Head Baseball - EJ Santos

• Asst. Baseball - Greg Link

• Head Softball - Dylan Voyles

• Asst. Softball - Jena Goff

• 8th Grade Girls Basketball - Jena Goff

•  7th Grade Girls Basketball - Lene Lox

• 6th Grade Girls Basketball - Jena Goff

The board also approved the new appointments of Ariel Dillard as 6th grade volleyball coach, Neo Colter as middle school boys track coach and acknowledged Sierra Torrance's resignation as middle school cheer coach. The meeting adjourned at 9:25 pm. This information was taken from the December 17 minutes, approved at the January 21 regular meeting. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 18, at 6:00 p.m. in the elementary cafeteria.