Effingham Board Of Education Met Monday

Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- Effingham Unit 40 school board members Monday revisited the failed one-percent sales tax proposal, discussing projects that could have been addressed with that revenue.

Assistant Superintendent Kelsey Baker said upcoming needs may include fencing at South Side School, a safety fence around the pond at Central School, and parking lot work at Effingham High School. Superintendent Andy Johnson said board members currently have no interest in putting the sales tax issue back before voters.

Curriculum Director Michelle Beck updated the board on the 21st Century grant program, noting after-school and summer participation has grown from 139 students to 200, and now 234. She said losing the program would hurt the community, and she hopes grant funding continues.

The board also approved the district crisis plan for the next fiscal year, a tentative budget, and the treasurer’s bond. Angie Byers addressed concerns about delayed funding for support staff under the new contract, which may not arrive until later this year. Substitute regular-route bus driver pay was also increased, as Unit 40 seeks licensed drivers.

The Board also released the district’s recent personnel moves.