Meeting Summary and Briefs: Crete-Monee School District 201-U for Jan. 20, 2026

Crete-Monee School District 201-U Meeting | Jan. 20, 2026

The Crete-Monee School District 201-U Board of Education met on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, to handle regular business, approve financial reports, and hear updates on school culture and capital projects. The meeting opened with a video presentation of the district’s recent Wellness Fair, held for staff in January. Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese highlighted the event’s focus on staff health and preparedness.

The Board approved a Consent Agenda that included meeting minutes, the monthly financial report, and payment of bills. Notably, the Board approved a payment of $193,688.93 to Bear Construction for ongoing work at Crete-Monee Middle School. Following the open session, the Board entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

Middle School Construction Update:
Assistant Superintendent Jason Okrasinski provided an update on the renovations at Crete-Monee Middle School. He reported that framing has begun on the first-floor classrooms where the amphitheater was located, with electrical conduit being installed. Framing for the second-floor classrooms is expected to begin immediately. Okrasinski confirmed the project is on schedule and that construction during the school day has caused no reported issues.

Speed SEJA Board Representation:
Board Vice President Alejandro Gallegos announced he can no longer serve as the district’s representative on the Speed SEJA Governing Board due to work conflicts. The meetings are held monthly on Thursdays. Board President Maurice Brown volunteered to attend the upcoming meeting this Thursday to ensure the district is represented while a permanent replacement is identified.

Education Foundation Grants:
Board Member Jamie Zite-Stumbris reminded the administration and staff that grant funding is still available through the Education Foundation. She encouraged teachers and administrators to utilize the active link to submit applications for funding for conferences or other needs.

Personnel Changes:
The Board approved the Personnel Report, which included the retirement of Early Learning Center Principal Kelly Chesta, effective June 30, 2030. Other actions included the employment of Karveta Broussard as a temporary Elementary Interventionist and the resignation of Christina Lovato from Crete-Monee Middle School.

Discipline Improvement Plan Approved:
The Board unanimously approved the district’s Discipline Improvement Plan. This plan is a requirement by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) for districts identified on the Top 20% Exclusionary Discipline list. The plan outlines strategies to reduce exclusionary discipline and address racial disproportionality.