Development News for East St. Louis, Illinois

Union Representative Voices Opposition to State 'Mega Project Bill'

Terry Turley spoke about Illinois House Bill 910, the 'Illinois mega project bill,' which is pending in the state legislature. Turley stated that the bill allows developers to receive massive tax cuts at the expense of school districts and cities. Representing Local 1220 of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, Turley declared strong opposition to the bill in its current form. While the bill is presented as beneficial for the Chicago Bears remaining in Illinois, Turley noted that its provisions could spread throughout the state, and the union believes it would not be beneficial in their area. He indicated he had letters detailing their opposition to distribute to the board.

Board of Education Approves Multiple Action Items, Including Contract Revisions and Meeting Schedule

The Board of Education approved several action items via omnibus vote, including the proposed 2026-2027 board meeting schedule, a worker's compensation settlement financial report for April, personnel report addendums, contracts and MOUs, the buildings and grounds report and addendum, the curriculum committee report and addendum, a revision to the 7A.11 agreement with Thomas Reuters Clear including a revised cost for three years, the policy committee report and addendum, and the finance committee report and addendum. The revision to the Thomas Reuters Clear agreement, originally $18,898 per year, was negotiated down to $7,950 per year to verify student and resident residency within the district.

Board of Education Celebrates Student and Staff Achievements

The Board of Education recognized numerous students and staff for outstanding achievements. This included preschool students from Vivian Adams Early Childhood Center who participated in a spelling bee, with Amara Lyons taking first place. Three students were recognized by the Southwestern Regional Illinois Principals Association for leadership: Pamela Johnson McNeely, Officer Bryson Guten, and Jermaine Minor. Gavin Manning and Janice Swisher, audio-visual students from East St. Louis Senior High School, won first place at the SkillsUSA state competition in digital cinema production and audio production, and will advance to nationals in Atlanta. The East St. Louis marching band also received top honors at the Drums Along the River Day Battle of the Bands, securing first place for percussion, the flag team, and overall band. Delicia Scott, a special education teacher at Mason Clark Middle School, was selected as a Teach Plus Illinois Policy Fellow. Finally, 17 staff members earned advanced degrees, demonstrating a commitment to professional growth and lifelong learning.