School board discuss variety of matters at meeting last week

By Editor | August 25, 2021

David Hejl addressed the Vandalia Community District 203 School Board at its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, Aug. 16, regarding the foreign exchange student program.

Hejl explained to the board that he and his wife were interested in possibly hosting a foreign exchange student. He continued, explaining that the couple have no children and have a lot to offer a potential student. He said when he questioned school officials about the program, he said that the program was filled with one student already.

Hejl questioned the board on whether another could be added for next year.

Joe Lawson explained to Hejl that there had been problems in the past with contractual issues with the exchange students’ families, however High School Principal Randy Protz said that the situation has improved over past situations.

“I feel it is unfair that you are discounting us without giving us an opportunity,” Hejl explained.

Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Garrison told the couple to submit the paperwork to Protz for approval for next year. Protz responded that as long as the Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois High School Association approves, he will look at it.

Letter from FFA alumni

During the meeting, board president Joe Lawson read a letter from the Vandalia FFA alumni expressing their displeasure with the amount of support in which former FFA advisor Mandy Totten received from school administration or the Teachers’ Union.

“We are rightfully frustrated and somewhat angered to know that the administration and teachers union allowed one of our best teachers to walk out the door,” the letter said.

It continued, “It is our understanding that a new teacher has been employed for the ag program and FFA. As alumni, we will fully support her in this new endeavor so the success of our students have seen with Mrs. Totten can continue and grow.”

In closing, the letter stated,“Out of respect to Mrs. Totten, we did not become involved in the situation that caused her to leave. It will be very hard for us to do that a second time. We are full supporters of Vandalia Community Schools, the ag program and all the students in our community. We want our students to reach the success that is possible for each of them. We hope that your future actions as administrators, teachers’ union, and the school board will prove to be the same.”

Other business

In other business, the board

• heard from Dr. Garrison who explained that with respect to the plans for the proposed expansion at the Elementary and Junior High, the district will have to wait and see the amount budget comes back with all of the projects included, and make adjustments from there;

• Principal Protz explained that this year’s homecoming activities will be held all on Thursday night, instead of being spread throughout the week to try to increase participation. He also reported that athletic passes are available at the high school office and that the Freshman Academy will again start this year;

• heard from other building administrators on how opening preparations are coming.

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