Student Support Efforts and Brighter Futures Grant Results

The board addresses recent student losses and outlines plans to strengthen support services, while a detailed report highlights the impact of the Brighter Futures Grant in helping adult learners complete their education and enter the workforce. Updates on summer resources, TIF negotiations, and upcoming school events are also shared. 13mins

Education
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Original Meeting

Monday, July 7th, 2025
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Brian Wojcicki
Springfield, Illinois
Government Relations & Legal Services Professional
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In This Video
  • Superintendent Gill addressed recent student losses in the community, expressed condolences, and emphasized the district's commitment to improving student support in collaboration with local and state partners.
  • Superintendent Gill announced the 2025 summer meal program, encouraged families to complete back-to-school physicals and immunizations, and promoted an upcoming back-to-school event with supplies, food, and entertainment for students and families.
  • Director Miller provided an update on the Jerome TIF, explaining that the Joint Review Board unanimously recommended against passing the TIF as written and that negotiations with other taxing bodies are ongoing.
  • Superintendent Gill introduced a presentation on the Restore, Reinvest and Renew Grant partnership with the City of Springfield, highlighting efforts to support students in completing their education through targeted incentives.
  • R3 Grant Administrator, Teriann Runkel-Benske, reported on the final year of the Brighter Futures Collaborative Grant, which provided resources and incentives for adult education students in Springfield to complete their education and explore career pathways.
  • Teriann Runkel-Benske described the resources and financial incentives provided by the Brighter Futures Collaborative Grant to help adult education students complete coursework and achieve reading and GED milestones.
  • Teriann Runkel-Benske described how the Brighter Futures Collaborative Grant provided certifications, career exploration opportunities, and access to career fairs for adult education students interested in hospitality, healthcare, and trades.
  • Teriann Runkel-Benske described how the Fishes and Loaves outreach program provided classroom and hands-on CNA training, culminating in clinicals and state exams for participants.
  • Teriann Runkel-Benske reported that the Brighter Futures Collaborative Grant met most of its goals for participant engagement, incentives, and workforce connections, while noting challenges in achieving stackable credentials due to participant circumstances.
  • Teriann Runkel-Benske reported that most of the Brighter Futures Collaborative Grant funds were spent, with remaining funds in the staff budget, and detailed the incentives awarded to students for reading gains and GED completion.
  • Teriann Runkel-Benske reported that 11 students received internships or work experience, 2 interns were offered positions after completing an internship, and 21 participants graduated with a GED through the grant program.
  • Chair Austin announced the date of the next regular meeting and provided a schedule of upcoming district events, including school registration and orientation dates.
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