Central IL educators preview new goals, initiatives as school year begins

CENTRAL ILLINOIS, (WCIA) — For many districts across Central Illinois, their superintendents feel the school year is off to a great start. As teachers and students adjust to the daily routine of being in a classroom once again, many administrators are looking ahead to new programs being introduced in schools.

In Decatur, there is a focus on mental health as they introduce families to the “Cartwheel” program.

“Cartwheel employs several clinicians all over the country so students can get therapy for lots of different things,” Eldon Conn, the student services director for the district, explained.

Teachers can make referrals, and students K-12 later connect with a doctor online all for free. They can discuss topics like anxiety, depression, bullying, relationships, trauma and more.

“I think the biggest thing with Cartwheel and mental health is just raising awareness,” Conn said.

In Mahomet, some administrators are participating in a pilot program of the “SAM” initiative. Kenny Lee, the superintendent, said it’ll help them gain more face-to-face time with students.

“It gives me an opportunity to get back in the classroom, assist our teachers and then provide feedback to hopefully increase teaching and learning at all buildings,” he said.

Mahomet-Seymour schools are also turning to voters and taxpayers to help them keep up with growing numbers. A $112.8 million question will be on the ballot , asking voters if they want to support the construction of two new buildings and improve other parts of the facilities.

Just north on Route 47 in Gibson City, Jeremy Darnell, the superintendent, said they’re focusing on “a whole lot of normal.”

To him, that means getting kids involved in various activities, and re-emphasizing human engagement instead of focusing on technology use.

“So that we’re not spending as much time while we’re on-site directly connecting to a device, it’s more connecting with the human beings in the space,” Darnell explained.

Chromebooks are being used in classrooms, while cell phones are to be left at the door.

“We’re teaching them to use the devices properly when it’s appropriate,” he added.

No matter what, all three of these school district leaders want what’s best for their kids as a new chapter begins in everyone’s book.

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