West Central Board Approves Major Building Projects

The West Central Community Unit School District #235 Board of Education held its regular meeting on April 15, in the Elementary Cafeteria, with President Brendan Schaley calling the session to order at 6:01 p.m. All seven board members were present, establishing a quorum.

Good News and Recognitions

The board highlighted positive community partnerships and staff achievements. Raritan State Bank partnered with the district for Community Banking Month, including a 4th-grade bank visit and a student coloring contest. The board also recognized numerous “Our District. Our Legacy” honorees, including Mallory Allen, Joyce Bass, Tabitha Cooper, Ariel Dillard, and many others for their contributions.

Routine Approvals

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the full consent agenda, which included minutes from prior meetings in March, payment of bills, activity accounts, the March Treasurer’s Report, a proclamation for National Teacher Appreciation Week, and the 2026-2027 registration, technology, and lunch fees.

Superintendent Search Update

Consultant Diane Robertson of School Exec Connect presented survey and focus group results to help shape the profile for the next superintendent. Her full report will be posted on the district website and social media. The board is scheduled for training on May 3, with candidate interviews to follow. Robertson noted the possibility of appointing an interim superintendent if needed. Superintendent Stacey Day is resigning at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.

Strategic Plan and Building Updates

Superintendent Day updated the board on the district’s Strategic Plan progress, including curriculum alignment, 10-year life safety projects, social-emotional learning support through Second Step, and career exploration. The district is also overhauling the Student Handbook for next year.

Several building projects were discussed: 

• The elementary playground equipment is ordered and expected in mid-June. 

• The board approved bids for two major projects (detailed below). 

• Middle School kitchen equipment is being ordered, and planning continues for locker room HVAC work to meet grant requirements. 

• Removal of pea gravel near the Middle School is under consideration to protect new windows. 

• A potential additional baseball field was discussed, with fencing estimates around $46,000, but it is not an immediate priority.

Technology and Other Items

The board discussed the 1:1 Chromebook program, emphasizing that devices should supplement—not replace—teacher instruction. Usage data will be tracked and reviewed, with an initial check-in at the end of April. Updated job descriptions for Middle and High School Athletic Directors were reviewed and will return for final action in May. The current Driver Education vehicle lease expires after this school year; alternatives for leasing or purchasing will be explored.

Action Items

The board unanimously approved: 

• The 2026-2027 school calendar. 

• A bid from Laverdiere Construction, Inc. for $178,931 to replace elementary exterior doors. 

• A bid from R.A. Oldeen, Inc. for $773,409 for Phase I of the High School roof project. 

• PressPlus Issue 121 on first reading.

Personnel Actions

Following a closed session, the board approved several personnel items: 

• Rehire of most winter coaches (several positions remain open; 6th grade boys’ basketball was tabled). 

• New appointment: Gary Fryrear as Seasonal Groundskeeper. 

• Bailey Garner as WCHS Football Cheer Coach. 

• Tracy Mason as WCMS Assistant Principal. 

• Administrative reassignments: Byron Helt from Assistant Principal to WCMS Principal and Bryan Taylor from Assistant Principal to WCES Principal. 

• Three-year administrative contracts (2026-2029) were approved for Helt, Taylor, and Mason. 

• The board acknowledged resignations, including Superintendent Stacey Day, several coaches, and a paraprofessional. 

• Approval of a maternity leave for Kara Keating.

The board did not rehire EJ Santos as Middle School Athletic Director.

Special meetings for the superintendent search were set for May 3, 8, 9, and 16. The board also plans to discuss the West Central logo at the next meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 9:33 p.m. This information was taken from the April 15 minutes, approved at the May 20 regular meeting. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, at 6:00 p.m. in the elementary cafeteria.