District 94 planning for $37.5 million in construction
A few months have passed since the community voted in favor of funding our district's $37.5 million plan to increase instructional space, renovate existing spaces and replace mechanical systems at West Chicago Community High School.
Today, I want to share the planning and processes that have occurred so far, to share what is to come in the future, and to highlight one of our end-of-the-school year activities.
Analysis and planning - these are the words that best describe what is happening now. Overall, we expect the projects to take up to four years to complete.
Financial analysis
Our business office is working with financial consultants to determine timing for the sale of bonds in relationship to the timing of projects. We must balance the need to generate funds against the schedule of work being done and the current and anticipated interest rates to assure we are using these assets wisely.
Program planning
This spring, division heads have been meeting with certified staff, prioritizing and making decisions about future programming for students. Each division will share information with administration and professional services to begin the design process toward facilities that can support 21st century learning opportunities for our students.
Building analysis
If you have undertaken any kind of remodeling project or watched home improvement shows on television, then you know the challenge that comes with determining what is "behind the walls."
Structural engineers are inspecting the 1926 original high school building, looking not only behind the walls but under the floorboards as well to gauge the integrity of the building and analyze what needs to be done to maintain the aging building.
We expect the analysis to be completed this summer and are hopeful for no surprises.
Inspirational Educators
Ten Inspirational Educators were recognized at the staff end-of-year brunch at West Chicago Community High School on Friday, June 9.
The WCCHS Illinois State Scholars were asked to think about their high school experience and nominate two teachers who inspired them to think creatively, ignited a special interest, provided guidance, or reached them emotionally.
After tallying the students' choices, the top 10 teachers who received the most votes were surprised and recognized at the brunch: Nick Caltagirone (social studies), Brandon Fantozzi (choir), Brianne Ferreiro (science), Candi Fikis (social studies), Anna Fulmer (science), Steve Govertsen (band), Aaron Hayes (math), Rich Kost (language arts), Nicole Osborne (language arts), and Krysta Schoenbeck (science).
Presenting the awards to the teachers were students Josh Bowen, Jacilyn Doncoes, Lauren Long, Danny McComb, Jennifer Orr, Jenna Palka, Harsh Patel and Max Smith.
• Doug Domeracki is superintendent of Community High School District 94.