Schools

Public schools news, student achievements, and education updates.

High school volleyball player spiking ball during intense playoff match

Highlights/scores: High school volleyball, boys' soccer playoffs (10/27/26)

As the sun began its descent over Central Illinois, casting long shadows across meticulously manicured fields and brightly lit gymnasium courts, a palpable energy coursed through our communities. High school athletes, fueled by years of dedication and the unwavering support of their families and...

Tom Patel

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Concerned parents speaking at a school board meeting in Champaign, Illinois

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Champaign School District considering new method to place students in AP classes

At a recent board meeting, the air was thick with tension as concerned parents voiced their worries about new curriculum changes in the Champaign School District. The proposed 'Tracking' method for placing students in Advanced Placement (AP) courses has sparked a heated debate among educators and...

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Decatur Public Schools entering new phase of district architecture revamp

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) -- Decatur Public Schools is entering the next phase of a facilities revamp that aims to maximize space amidst declining enrollment and a budget deficit. For the last year, DPS has been implementing the Roadmap 2030 initiative. The district hired the architect firm Wold...

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Champaign community, school board clash over waiver request for admin wage increase

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) -- The Champaign School Board's Monday meeting saw fiery public comment as the district requested a waiver of administrative costs for the 2026 fiscal year. District officials said it happened because of the change in leadership at the superintendent level. The Illinois State...

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Highlights/scores: High school volleyball regional quarterfinals (10/26/26)

CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) -- The high school volleyball playoffs kicked off across the state with regional quarterfinals. Salt Fork 2, Arcola 0 Tuscola 2, Heritage 0 Paxton-Buckley-Loda 2, Clinton 1 Bismarck-Henning-Rossville-Alvin 2, Hoopeston 0 Unity 2, Uni-High 0 Centennial 2, Danville 1

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High school soccer coaches Vincent Mkhwanazi and Andy Stembridge shaking hands after a game

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Kankakee, Bradley-Bourbonnais have seasons end with losses in sectional semifinals

In a poignant twist of fate, two former teammates turned coaches found themselves on the brink of a thrilling rematch in the sectional semifinals, only to see their dreams dashed in a heart-wrenching fashion. Vincent Mkhwanazi and Andy Stembridge, once united on the field, now lead rival high...

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Decatur Pioneers high school soccer team celebrating a second-half victory

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Flurry of Second Half Goals Sends Pioneers to Sectional Final

In a thrilling display of teamwork and tenacity, the Pioneers surged forward in the second half, igniting the crowd with a flurry of goals that echoed their determination. Each strike was not just a point on the scoreboard, but a testament to the hard work and dedication of a community rallying...

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Jan O'Neil, Grissom Middle School gym teacher, smiling with students during a physical education class in Tinley Park

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Teacher of the Month: Jan O'Neil

In the bustling gym of Grissom Middle School, the echoes of laughter and the rhythmic thud of sneakers on the floor create a vibrant backdrop. Jan O'Neil, the recently honored Teacher of the Month, transforms physical education into a celebration of teamwork and personal growth, where every jump...

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