Effingham Unit 40 Board Of Education Met Monday

Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- Unit 40 Board of Education members met Monday to tackle a range of significant topics.

Assistant Superintendent Kelsey Baker projected a possible 10% increase in the district’s Equalized Assessed Value, leading to discussion of a tentative 14% tax levy hike. A public hearing may take place at the November meeting.

Superintendent Andy Johnson also highlighted an anti-vaping initiative, building on last month’s presentation by EHS principal Kurt Roberts and aiming to involve the entire Apollo Conference. Enrollment in the district has grown by 22 students since last month.

The Board recognized Kathleen Henderson and Jennifer Hess as new co-directors of the Unit 40 Foundation Board. Another matter on the agenda was whether Unit 40 should act as fiscal and administrative agent for the CORE Academy—a topic slated for further debate in November.

Community attention also focused on a social media post by a district employee, which some interpreted as referencing the death of Charlie Kirk. Board President Jill Wendling addressed concerns, clarifying that while the post was upsetting to many, it was made outside school hours on a private account and did not mention the district. Legal counsel advised that current facts indicate the post is protected by the First Amendment, though the board stressed that this protection does not equal endorsement. Wendling called for civility and respect in all public discourse and reaffirmed the board’s commitment to fostering a respectful school environment.

The Board also released their recent personnel moves.