Litchfield CUSD 12 Meeting | November 18, 2025

The Litchfield Community Unit School District No. 12 Board of Education met on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, to address a tentative tax levy, review academic performance data, and handle personnel and disciplinary matters. The board approved a preliminary tax levy that anticipates a 9% increase, necessitating a Truth in Taxation hearing scheduled for December 16.

Superintendent Dr. Kelly McClain and Director of Curriculum Jennifer Thompson provided updates on the district’s financial and academic standing. While the district celebrated “Commendable” ratings across all schools on the State Report Card, officials also noted challenges regarding enrollment and chronic absenteeism. The meeting began with a celebration of student achievements in athletics and academics.

Eco Team Takes First Place:
The Middle School ECO Team was recognized for achieving first place overall out of 21 teams at a recent competition. The team, which improved significantly from a fifth-place finish the previous year, secured a first-place finish in the “Snakes” category and second-place finishes in “Nuts and Berries” and “Orienteering.”

Cross Country Success:
The board honored middle and high school cross country runners. The middle school boys team took second place at sectionals, while the girls team narrowly missed qualifying. High school runner Maggie Schwab was recognized as a state qualifier, placing 64th out of 252 runners at the state meet with a time of 18:40.

ILMEA Musicians Recognized:
A large group of middle and high school students was recognized for their selection to the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District 5 Festival. Students qualified to participate in various ensembles, including band, choir, and orchestra, at the festival scheduled for the upcoming Saturday at Eastern Illinois University.

SCI Update:
Juletta Ellis, Director of the South Central Illinois (SCI) Workforce Training Center, reported that the center successfully sold out of student-built picnic tables. She also noted that the center is currently conducting “shadowing days” for Litchfield sophomores, allowing them to explore programs such as industrial maintenance, CNA, and welding.

South Central Conference Honor:
Superintendent McClain announced that the South Central Conference was recognized as one of three organizations receiving the “Organization of the Year” award from the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association. The conference is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.