The West Prairie Board of Education hosted the Spring IASB Western Division Meeting on February 29, 2024, at West Prairie Jr./Sr. High School. Board members and administrators from area schools gathered for the biannual division meeting to receive on-going professional development and an opportunity to network with peers.
Upon entering the building, visitors were greeted by West Prairie board members and student council representatives. Guests were treated to hors d'oeuvres while touring the newly renovated building and enjoying the student art show prepared by Mrs. Cordell and Mr. Eden.
The evening started with a welcome from Superintendent Gradert, followed by an encouraging message from former West Prairie School Board President, Dr. Gerald White. Participants enjoyed a wonderful dinner prepared by the West Prairie food service team, led by Mandy Palmer and members of FFA, with direction from Mrs. McGrew and Mr. Heuer. Mrs. Heuer generously donated her time and efforts to bake and decorate beautiful cupcakes for dessert . Mr. DeCounter's horticulture class created floral centerpieces for each table to add to the ambiance of the evening. Student council members helped with dinner service and clean up making the event truly a team effort.
IASB (Illinois Association of School Boards) Division Chair Pamella Bess-Tabb presented West Prairie Board President Scott Vogler with an American Flag as an expression of appreciation. Division and IASB officers conducted the business meeting consisting of association information, resources, and updates. Attendees heard reports from the Board of Directors, Statewide Officers, Executive Director, Governmental Relations, and the Resolutions Committee. Reatha Owen, Field Services Director, provided announcements regarding future meetings, the Joint Annual Conference, and District Liaison opportunities prior to the start of the breakout sessions.
The three breakout sessions included "Board/Vice President Networking", "What Would You Do? Scenarios", and "What's Going On?" Division officers led the discussions within each session. Members had the opportunity to relay personal experiences and exchange solutions among the group to take back to their own districts.
Forty-four people attended the evening of learning and fellowship. Several compliments were received throughout the night. A special thank you goes out to Emilie Hendrix, District Administrative Assistant, for planning and organizing the entire event. West Prairie thanks everyone involved for making the dinner a success!