Union School District 81 Wins 'Award of Merit' from Illinois State Board of Education

Submitted by Union School District 81

Two years of teamwork and dedication have paid off for Union School District 81.

Changing the culture in any place of business can be tough; especially when it’s a school. The only possible way is through dedication and teamwork. Union School District 81 has done just that.

Being nominated for drastically improving their financial situation, extending the school year and providing additional resources for students, Illinois State Superintendent Christopher Koch notified officials last week at Union School District 81 that they had won an Award of Merit from the Illinois State Board of Education.

‘This truly was a team effort”, stated Superintendent Tim Baldermann. “The credit goes to our new Board of Education, teachers, staff, students and parents. Everyone is commited to providing the very best to make sure we are serving the students’ needs”.

Since Tim Baldermann was named Superintendent two years ago, the school built it’s first playground, every student in 3rd-8th grade was provided with their own computer, the district’s financial rating went from the Financial Watch List (worst rating) to Financial Recognition ( best rating) and the district went to a balanced calendar with 18 additional days of schooling for students available.

District representatives will receive the award at the Those Who Excel program on October 25 in Normal, Illinois.