The board voted to terminate the Springfield High basketball coach after a public appeal and discussion, welcomed a new student board member, celebrated student achievements, approved a SCOPE fee increase, and discussed a possible new junior high wrestling program. Watch full meeting on YouTube.
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Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Springfield’s next police chief and downtown plans
Meet Springfield’s likely new police chief: hear about his background, his focus on officer wellness, and plans for supporting both new and veteran officers—including ideas for in-house mental health support and better fitness programs. Council members pressed for more minority leadership, stronger community policing, and action on speeding complaints. Downtown revitalization is picking up steam, […]
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Lift assist fees approved, Growth Alliance funding debated
The council took a big step by approving new fees for lift assists at care facilities, but not before a heated debate. Some members pushed for targeting only the worst offenders, while others worried about costs being passed to residents. The new rule gives each facility two free calls a year and bans charging individual […]
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New board leadership, handbook changes and budget concerns
Big changes for District 186: – New board members were sworn in, and the board elected a new president. – The meeting celebrated student achievements, including the Lanphier High School band’s festival win, statewide coaching honors, and a future educator signing day. But the spotlight was on the updated Student and Family Handbook: – Stricter […]
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25-year solar contract, assisted living fees and Wyndham fallout
Springfield council paused to honor the lives lost in Chatham, then got right to work on some big decisions. A $13 million-a-year solar contract sparked debate about the city’s clean energy future, how it fits into long-term plans, and whether residents are being heard before major spending. Council members pushed for more public engagement and […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Trump immigration actions are only latest in white supremacy tradition
The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled recently that Maryland resident Kilmar Abrego Garcia must be released and returned to his family. He was wrongfully deported to the high-security prison in El Salvador based on what the Trump administration calls an “administrative error.” However, during a recent visit to the Oval Office with President Donald Trump, […]
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Health care careers, summer program fees and awards
The board is piloting a new Hospital Heroes program at three schools, giving students a firsthand look at health care careers beyond doctors and nurses. Ridgely, Wilcox, and Southern View are the first to try out these hands-on kits, with hopes to expand soon. Recognition was given to this year’s top administrator and educator, as […]
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Council dedicates funds to east side growth
The Springfield City Council meeting was packed with big decisions and some heated moments: – Emotional farewells for the police and fire chiefs after nearly three decades of service each. – A zoning request for a longer dock on Lake Springfield drew strong warnings about changing the rules — yet the council approved the extension […]
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Council debates public comment rules and a bus bench contract
Public comment rules are under scrutiny. Corporation Counsel Greg Moredock explained the Open Meetings Act and answered questions about what changes might be allowed. – Ward 3 Ald. Roy Williams raised questions about political signage on bus benches. Could new regulations be on the horizon? – Ward 2 Ald. Shawn Gregory emphasized the need for […]
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Celebrating educators and health insurance changes
Springfield District 186 Board of Education meeting was packed with updates and heartfelt community moments. – Students, don’t miss the chance to apply for next year’s student board representative role. The deadline is extended. – Superintendent Gill celebrated school plays and recognized outstanding educators, including teachers and administrators of the year. – Exciting events are […]
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Springfield council faces citizen complaints; requests Wyndham hotel damage update
Public comments grabbed most of the Springfield City Council meeting this week. – The council celebrated the Lincoln Magnet Ball Charter 7th grade boys basketball team for their historic 4A state championship win. – Updates on the Wyndham Hotel damages that temporarily halted overnight stays, but the city is working hard to relocate conventions and […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Summer camps offer adventure, discovery and growth
The things I remember most about childhood summers, besides the feeling that summer stretched on forever, were the new experiences and adventures I had. Summer, for me, was two and a half months of long, sun-drenched days that were filled with unstructured play, outdoor exploration and making new friends at camp. The lack of school […]
