The Beecher School District 200-U Board of Education approved its annual budget, appointed a new member, and greenlit a cosmetic upgrade for the high school during its meeting on September 10. The board formally adopted the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, which projects a nearly $100,000 surplus and earmarks funds for major facility projects. The meeting began with the appointment of Brad Shrader to fill a vacant board seat. The board also approved a nearly $12,500 window wrap for the high school. Full articles on these key decisions are available.

District to Address Elementary School Tunnel Moisture
The board tabled a decision on a proposal to fix moisture issues in the tunnels beneath Beecher Elementary School, opting to seek a second quote. The initial proposal from Allied Services involves installing industrial dehumidifiers and a drainage system. A related issue is the need for asbestos abatement on old water pipes in the tunnels, which must be completed before any work can begin. The project will likely be scheduled for a future school break.

Staffing Updates: Retirement and New Hires
The board approved several personnel moves, including the intent to retire of Kathy Weiss, a junior high social studies teacher, effective at the end of the 2028 school year. Resignations were accepted from full-time bus monitor Amanda Higgason and high school student council sponsor Meaghan Mahoney. To fill the sponsor role, the board approved Becki Calomino, Emily Hoekstra, and Mirna Mueller as co-sponsors. Tammy Hitzelburger was hired as a new full-time bus monitor.

District Approves Physical Therapy Agreement
To ensure continued student services, the board approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Kankakee Area Special Education Cooperative (KASEC) for physical therapy. Superintendent Dr. Jack Gaham explained that the district’s previous provider was unable to staff the position for a student in need, requiring the new partnership with KASEC to fill the gap.

Enrollment Figures Reported for New School Year
Principals reported student enrollment numbers for the 2025-2026 school year. As of early September, Beecher Elementary School has 428 students, the junior high has 243 students, and the high school has 344 students. The high school’s enrollment is down by seven students compared to the same time last year.

Team Pact Liaison Request Addressed
During public comment, a representative from the Team Pact martial arts organization reiterated a request from last spring for a board member to be assigned as a liaison to the group. Board President Ashley Belt later explained that when board members chose their liaison assignments for community groups this year from a provided list that included Team Pact, it was not selected as a first or second choice by any member.

Junior High Golfer Qualifies for State
Beecher Junior High student Dominic D’Agnolo received a shout-out for qualifying for the state golf competition. Junior High Principal Dr. Michelle Kwasny highlighted his achievement during her report. The board plans to formally recognize D’Agnolo and any other state-qualifying athletes at its November meeting.