Teutopolis School Board Votes to Seek Bids on High School Project (UPDATE)

Teutopolis school board members Monday voted to direct Upchurch Architects to release contract documents on the construction of a seven-classroom addition to the high school building. The vote also directs Upchurch to release information on an alternate bid for two additional rooms, as well as an alternate bid to renovate the front exterior of the main entrance to the high school.

The vote was 6-1 with member Leon Gobczynski voting No.

Siemer Milling Company President Rick Siemer continued to voice questions about the project, but the board members who voted in favor of seeking bids said they had enough information to proceed. Member Brad Koester said he wants to get the bids in hand and then decide how to proceed.

The Board also voted to place a 1% sales tax question on the April 2 election ballot. If the majority of those in the County voting on the question vote Yes, the measure will be passed. Revenue could go toward construction or renovation projects. The measure got majority approval in the Teutopolis district the last time the question was on the ballot.

Teutopolis board members passed a tax levy calling for more than $5.2 million in revenue with an increase of about 8.27%. Counting bonds, the increase would be about 7.7%. The Board also heard from Teutopolis High graduate Taylor Hartke who is now serving as Illinois FFA Treasurer.

(TAYLOR HARTKE)

There was discussion on whether the district should allow children of Unit 50 employees to attend Teutopolis schools tuition-free. The matter will be researched further.

The Board approved resignations from Sharon Wallace as F/T bus driver effective January 7, 2019; Libbie Jorn as THS play director, effective immediately; Dave Zerrusen as TJHS play co-director; and Jodi Anders as TGS cafeteria helper. The Board also hired Sullymar Rivera as a two-hour TGS cafeteria helper three days a week, and hired Christina Brown as TJHS play co-director.

Superintendent Bill Fritcher reported that the District's fiber build technology project has been funded.