Teutopolis Board Of Education Met Monday

Teutopolis, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The Teutopolis Board of Education met for their monthly meeting Monday at 6pm.

• The Board of Education continued its in-depth review of district facility needs, long-term planning, and potential future financing strategies. As part of these discussions, the Board heard a presentation from Steve Adams of PMA Securities, a financial advisory firm specializing in municipal debt analysis. The Board requested this presentation to gain insight into the district’s debt profile in relation to its operational and capital position, ensuring fiscally responsible decision-making for both present and future conditions. This information is being considered as the Board evaluates potential borrowing to support upcoming facility projects.
  Currently, the district is utilizing reserves to fund renovations in the THS Cafeteria, secure office entry upgrades at THS, TJHS, and the Unit Office, and asbestos abatement work. These critical health and safety improvements are on schedule for completion by the start of the 2025-26 school year.
• Looking ahead, the Board has directed its architect to draft plans for anticipated expansion at TJHS during the spring and summer of 2026. Discussions have included the addition of three classrooms and a restroom set or two classrooms to accommodate the movement of sixth grade students to TJHS in August 2026. These improvements will also be funded through district reserves.
• The planned transition of sixth grade to TJHS for the 2026-27 school year will help the district accommodate its growing student population and set the stage for a long-term facility improvement initiative, potentially beginning as early as 2027-28. While details remain under development, plans for TGS include restroom infrastructure upgrades, ADA accessibility improvements, and instructional space modernization, which will require additional funding sources.
• To further explore financial options, the Board will hear a presentation from Tom Crabtree of Stifel, its current brokerage and underwriting firm, during the June regular meeting. At the same time, conversations with a communications firm are underway to develop a plan for collecting additional community feedback on their vision for future facility projects and the potential need for associated borrowing. The Board remains committed to responsible financial planning and ensuring that school facilities support student success for years to come. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and participate in upcoming discussions. For more information, please contact Superintendent Matt Sturgeon.
• The Board approved the Treasurer’s Reports and the Payment of Bills as presented.
• The Board approved the Consent Agenda Items as follows: Approval of Minutes from April 14 Regular Meeting; Renewed Membership Dues with the Illinois Association of School Boards; Approved Enrollment Request of District Employees per an ISBE Waiver for the 2025-26 Academic Year; Approved the FFA’s attendance at the State Convention; and Approved the First Reading of Board Policy Updates 118.
• The Board approved the FY2025 Tentative Budget, placing it on display for not less than 30 days, and established an amended budget hearing for Monday, June 16 at 6pm with the regular meeting to immediately follow.
• Presentation of Reports included:
  a. Building Updates – Principals and Activities & Athletics Director
  b. Superintendent Update – Property/Casualty/Liability Insurance, Worker’s Compensation Insurance and Employer offered Health Insurance Renewals are all anticipated at the June meeting
• New Business for Board Discussion – None
• The Board accepted an updated letter of retirement.
• The Board approved a FMLA Request for Leave of Absence.
• The Board approved the hire of the following for 2025-26 contingent upon their successful completion of background investigation, employment history review and
  verification/completion of necessary licensure for the position: Ivy Schmidt – TGS Music Teacher; John Westendorf – TGS Custodian; Diona Griffy – Bus Driver; THS Kitchen Student Workers; and Two-Day Extended Contract for Amanda Hazlett – Diversified Occupation Teacher.
• The Board adopted a resolution to extend the principal’s contract of Tanner Lawson and Sherry Hoehn through the 2027-28 academic year.

The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 16, 2025 at 6pm.