As Tazewell County voters prepare to consider the proposed County Schools Facility Tax on November 3, we invite our community to learn more about what is being proposed and how the funds could be used.

The attached graphics and short video provide an overview of the proposal, including eligible uses for the revenue, how funds would be distributed, and information about the upcoming referendum. We encourage everyone to review the information and stay informed.

To learn more, visit TazewellForStudents.com.
about 1 hour ago, Shawnna Rule
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Exciting news for Midwest Central’s band students!

Thanks to a $5,564.88 grant from the Forman Valley Community Foundation and an equal matching contribution from Manito Musical Advocates, Midwest Central will purchase 100 Wenger Nota music posture chairs for our primary, middle, and high school band programs, a combined investment of $11,129.76 in our students!

These chairs will give band students across all three schools, from fifth-grade beginners through high school musicians, consistent seating designed for music instruction and a unified, professional appearance at concerts.

Dirk Heinhorst, President of the Forman Valley Community Foundation, and Matt Dobey, President of Manito Musical Advocates, recently presented the checks to Band Director Thad Franklin.

Thank you to both organizations and the community members who make their generosity possible. Your support will serve Midwest Central student musicians for years to come!
about 2 hours ago, Shawnna Rule
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Happy I.T. Professionals Day!

You know it's a good day when the Wi-Fi works, the printers print, the phones ring, and nobody says, "Did you try turning it off and back on again?"

Today we're giving a huge shoutout to Kyan & Thad for keeping Midwest Central connected, supported, and running smoothly every day. While many of us only notice technology when something goes wrong, they work behind the scenes to keep everything running right.

Thanks for all you do!
about 4 hours ago, Shawnna Rule
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Transportation Staff Spotlight: Lisa

As we continue highlighting the amazing members of our Transportation Department, we'd like to introduce Lisa!

This year marks an incredible 33 years as a school bus driver, including 9 years with Midwest Central.

When asked her favorite thing about driving a school bus, Lisa's answer was easy: “My kids." She shared that she enjoys being a grandma figure to many of the students and helping ensure they are safe each day.

Over the years, Lisa has built strong connections with generations of students and families. Her caring nature and dedication to the students she serves have made a lasting impact, and it's clear that the relationships she builds along the way are one of the things she treasures most about the job.

When asked what she's hoping for this school year, Lisa simply said she hopes for a smooth year.

Thank you, Lisa, for more than three decades of service, dedication, and care. We are grateful for the positive difference you make in the lives of our students every day.

#MCRaiderNationProud
1 day ago, Shawnna Rule
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The second-grade hallways have taken on a little Disney magic this year! Inspired by Mickey Mouse and friends, the second-grade teachers decorated their classroom doors with colorful and creative displays to welcome students each day.

Just down the hall, the third-grade teachers brought the world of Monsters, Inc. to life with fun door designs that are sure to bring smiles to students and staff alike.

A big thank you to our teachers for the time, creativity, and effort they put into creating welcoming spaces for our students. Great job, second- and third-grade teams!
1 day ago, Shawnna Rule
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The first-grade teachers are helping students start the year with a little creativity and a lot of personality!

Inspired by Disney Pixar's Inside Out, the first-grade classroom doors have been transformed into colorful displays that help welcome students each day. The creative designs add a fun touch to the hallways and showcase the time and care our teachers put into creating inviting learning spaces.

Great job, first-grade team!
4 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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The kindergarten teachers have their classroom doors ready for a new adventure!

Inspired by Disney Pixar's Up, each classroom door was transformed with a fun and creative theme to help welcome students and families to a new school year. The colorful displays are a great example of the time, effort, and creativity our teachers put into making their classrooms inviting places to learn and grow.

Great job, Kindergarten team! 🎈
5 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 22 at the Primary School!

All students will have their picture taken, and order forms will be coming soon.

We look forward to capturing another great year of Midwest Central smiles!
6 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Join us for Goodies with Grandparents at MCPS on Monday, September 14, from 7:00 - 7:45 AM!

Grandparents are invited to stop by for a morning treat and spend a little time with their special Raider before the school day begins. We look forward to welcoming our grandparents and sharing this special time together.
7 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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On Friday, first grade had a visit from Mayor Sondag! Last week, students learned about their town and the people who help serve the community. Mayor Sondag shared information about his responsibilities and the work he does for the Village of Manito.

It was a great real-world connection to what students have been learning in class and a fun way to kick off Popcorn Festival weekend. Thank you, Mayor Sondag, for taking the time to visit with our students!

#MCRaiderNationProud
7 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Transportation Staff Spotlight: Tammy Atterberry

As we continue highlighting the amazing members of our Transportation Department, we'd like to introduce Tammy!

This year marks 15 years behind the wheel at Midwest Central, where she can be found driving Bus #6. When asked her favorite thing about driving a school bus, Tammy's answer was simple:"My kids."

If you've ever talked with Tammy's students or their families, you've probably heard her called"Mom Tammy" or"Grandma Tammy." Over the years, she has built special relationships with generations of students and families, and it's not uncommon for parents to remind her that retirement will have to wait because a younger sibling is just getting started. At this rate, Tammy jokes that she may never get to retire!

When asked what she's hoping for this school year, Tammy shared that she's looking forward to"a very good year."

Tammy's kindness, commitment, and genuine care for students have made a lasting impact on countless families throughout her 15 years at Midwest Central. We are grateful for everything she does to help make each bus ride a positive experience.

Thank you, Tammy, for your dedication to our students, families, and community. We hope you have a wonderful year on Bus #6!
7 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Happy Labor Day from Midwest Central! Today we celebrate the hard work and dedication that help make our schools, families, and communities strong. We hope everyone enjoys a safe and relaxing holiday!
8 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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September Menus
15 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Fine Motor Fun in Small Group

Students in small group practiced fine motor skills today using a "magical" eraser! By holding an object similar in size to a pencil and erasing letters, names, and pictures, students were strengthening the hand and finger muscles needed for writing and other classroom activities.

Sometimes learning looks a little like play!
15 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Transportation Staff Spotlight: Holley Veteto

As we continue highlighting the amazing members of our Transportation Department, we'd like to introduce Holley!

This year marks 27 years behind the wheel as a school bus driver, with 23 of those years spent at Midwest Central. Holley currently drives Bus #15 and enjoys getting to know students and watching them grow and change over the years.

When asked what she's hoping for this school year, Holley kept it simple: "Everyone stays healthy."

More than two decades of service to Midwest Central is an incredible accomplishment, and we are grateful for the care, dedication, and commitment Holley brings to our students each day.

Thank you, Holley, for 23 years of service to Midwest Central. We wish you a wonderful year on Bus #15!

#MCRaiderNationProud
15 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Learning About Community Helpers

On Friday, Sergeant Sondag visited the first-grade classroom to talk about what it means to be a police officer. Students learned about the equipment he carries, the responsibilities of the job, and the important role law enforcement plays in our community.

This visit tied in perfectly with first grade's current study of their town and community helpers. Thank you, Sergeant Sondag, for taking the time to share your knowledge and experiences with our students! 🚔

15 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Little Moments That Make Our School Special

One of the sweetest parts of being a school family is seeing the connections that extend across classrooms and grade levels.

Mrs. Charlton's kindergarten class has several students with siblings in Mrs. James' Pre-K class, so they love stopping by for a quick hug and hello during the day. One of the advantages of being a Pre-K through 12 district is that these sibling connections can continue even while they're at school.
20 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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Transportation Staff Spotlight: Lori Wolfe

This year marks an incredible 30 years working in the transportation department. Over the years, Lori has worn many hats, serving as a school bus driver for 27 years, a School Bus Driver Trainer, a Safety Coordinator, and now, for the past three years, as a monitor on the Schramm/Rogers bus.

Lori's service extends far beyond the bus route. Throughout her time with the district, she has assisted with school registrations, helped route buses, and even delivered meals and homework to students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her willingness to step in wherever needed has made her an invaluable part of the Midwest Central family.

When asked what she enjoys most about her current role, Lori shared that she loves interacting with students and appreciates the opportunity to connect with them in a different way than she did as a driver. She is looking forward to "an excellent, safe and amazing year" and says there is absolutely nothing she dislikes about her work.

Thirty years of dedication, dependability, and service is an incredible milestone. Lori's knowledge of the district, commitment to students, and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on generations of Midwest Central families.

Thank you, Lori, for 30 years of service to Midwest Central. We are grateful for all you have done and continue to do for our students and schools.

#MCRaiderNationProud
20 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ MIDDLE SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY RECAP 🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️

Our Middle School Cross Country teams competed today at Illini Central on a challenging 2-mile course. It was a great day for our athletes, with many personal records set! 💪🔥

Girls Results
🥉 Taylen McLaughlin — 18:10 | 31st Place
🏃‍♀️ Iris McKenzie — 20:40 | 40th Place
🏃‍♀️ Lakynn Bohm — 25:45 | 55th Place

Boys Results
🥈 Reid Sidders — 12:42 | 2nd Place
🏅 Carson Campbell — 13:58 | 6th Place
🏅 Liam Frank — 14:08 | 10th Place
🏃‍♂️ Nolan Bartolazzi — 14:37 | 17th Place
🏃‍♂️ Tyler Vanderwulp — 15:36 | 25th Place
🏃‍♂️ Remington Hollis — 17:31 | 40th Place

Congratulations to all of our runners on a great day and for continuing to improve! We are proud of the effort, determination, and many PRs! 👏

Keep working hard! The season is just getting started!🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️🔥
20 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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The Primary School PTO invites all parents and guardians to join us for our monthly meetings. PTO meetings are held at 3:15 PM in the Primary School Library.

We encourage families to attend, get involved, and help support the students, staff, and programs at Midwest Central Primary School. We hope to see you there!
26 days ago, Shawnna Rule
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