Dieterich School Board Members Get Timeline on Construction Project

Dieterich school board members Monday reviewed the timeline for the construction project that will provide additional classroom space.

Included in the project is new classrooms, a new science lab, new restrooms and restroom renovations. Dieterich Superintendent Cary Jackson said the timeline is as follows:

--design complete in early January

--bidding in January or early February

--approve the bid at the February Board meeting

--begin abatement and construction in March.

The Dieterich Board reviewed the annual property tax levy. Jackson said there was an increase in the Bond Fund levy to account for bond payments for the school expansion project. Jackson said the district's tax rate will rise, but he said it would remain comparatively low when compared to other districts in the region. The Board then approved the tax levy.

The Board also approved a renewal of the District's workers compensation insurance policy that reflects a slight decrease of 0.05%. The renewal will be for a six-month period to get the renewal on schedule with the District's property, auto and liability policies. Board members also renewed the district's memberships in the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce and the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools.

Dieterich board members approved a door access control system upgrade from Barlow Lock and Security for $7,200, and approved the purchase of a communication software tool through the school's mobile app, called Rooms. Jackson said Rooms will allow the teachers and coaches to communicate with their students and families along with updating them on any classroom activities or assignments, as well as athletic or club practices and schedules and assignments.

In personnel matters, the Dieterich Board hired Brooklyn Wendte as a student worker, hired Rich Westendorf and Gabriella Hardiek as junior high co-assistant volleyball coaches, and hired Fred Stevens as a substitute bus driver.