Dieterich Reviews Facilities, Options for the Future

Dieterich school board members Monday heard from representatives of The Upchurch Group regarding a facility assessment report created at the request of the District.

Superintendent Cary Jackson said the report revealed that, overall, the Dieterich building is in very good condition and is maintained at a high level. Additional information addresses options for expansion, if the need arises.

The need to examine expansion has resulted from a continued increase in enrollment at Dieterich over the past 10 years. Enrollment in the 2009-2010 school year was 426, and has steadily increased to 557 this school year. The report provided location options, as well as cost estimates for expansion.

The Dieterich board passed the tax levy for the fiscal year. Jackson estimates a decrease in the tax rate due to an increase in the equalized assessed valuation. Jackson noted that Dieterich has the third lowest tax rate in the region. Fellow county districts Effingham Unit 40 and Teutopolis Unit 50 are lowest and second lowest.

The Dieterich board renewed its insurance coverage with Liberty Mutual and Star Insurance. The renewal reflects an increase of $13,409, or 18.6%. The total cost of the insurance package for 2021 will be $85,517. The Board also accepted a Back to Books library grant totaling $4,900. District Librarian Mary Richars applied for the grant.

Dieterich board members also approved an intergovernmental agreement to participate in the Effingham Regional Career Academy. Dieterich is one of nearly 15 school districts who will participate in the Academy. Plans are on schedule to open the new facility next to the Lake Land Kluthe Center in Effingham in 2023.