Springfield District 186 Board of Education packed a lot into this meeting — worth a watch if you’ve got students riding buses or heading to high school next fall.
Highlights and key takeaways:
– Celebrations: Students earned spots in the Illinois Music Educators Association All-State programs and will head to Peoria in January. Southeast’s Best Buddies pilot club threw a joyful inclusion-focused holiday party with crafts, dancing and more.
– Incoming 9th graders: Freshman preview night is set for Jan. 15, 6–7 p.m. Not sure which high school you’re assigned to? Check the school locator or ask your current school.
– Superintendent search: The board says the process is on track with strong community input; an announcement is expected near the end of January.
– Bus transportation: The district is tracking late buses, securing billing credits from the contractor, and pushing for better communication when routes get doubled or changed—especially when tracker glitches cause confusion.
– Dates to know: Winter break runs Dec. 22–Jan. 2 (traditional). Jan. 5 is a Teacher Institute day; classes resume Jan. 6. Balanced calendar break is Dec. 22–Jan. 9; Jan. 12 is a Teacher Institute day.
If bus issues or the superintendent search affect your family, you’ll want to see how the board is handling them — and get those January dates on your calendar.
