Canton Unit SD 66 board to form committee to study elementary restructuring affecting 74 students

Superintendent Tad DeRenzy and Assistant Superintendent Julie Tarvin presented an elementary program restructuring proposal during the April 20 meeting that, as outlined in the packet, would move approximately 74 students among district elementary schools and change staffing allocations.

The packet lists specific enrollment movements and staffing changes: Lincoln would shift 7 students, Eastview 21 and Westview 46 for a total of 74 students moving into a new program configuration; staffing adjustments in the proposal showed Lincoln +1 teacher, Eastview +3 teachers and Westview +3 teachers. Assistant Superintendent Tarvin reviewed staff training plans that would include trauma-informed practices, de-escalation, behavior supports and paraprofessional training to support the transition.

District administrators explained the placement process for 19 students affected by special-program moves and set a May 8 deadline to complete those placement meetings. Board members discussed concerns raised in staff letters; Board Member Matt Kees noted those concerns, and Board Member Brent Parry suggested forming a committee. The board agreed to form a committee composed of two board members (Anne Grzanich and Brent Parry volunteered), two teachers per school, union leadership, school and district administration and two paraprofessionals per school; Superintendent DeRenzy will coordinate with CEA Co‑President Christopher Siders to assemble the group.