Bureau Valley Students Honored for Remarkable Achievements

The Bureau Valley District 340 board convened on July 23, 2025, at the District Office in Manlius, where several outstanding students were recognized for their notable accomplishments. Mr. Stabler, the board president, highlighted the achievements of three students: Toby Behrends, Landon Hulsing, and Logan Philhower, each excelling in their respective fields.

Toby Behrends earned seventh place in the Extemporaneous Public Speaking event at the Illinois State FFA Convention. Behrends has participated in FFA speech events since her freshman year, demonstrating her dedication to this competitive area.

In athletics, Landon Hulsing made headlines by setting a new school record in the discus throw. He also claimed first place at the IHSA state track and field meet, with his throw marking the fourth-longest in the event’s history—a remarkable feat that showcases his talent and hard work.

Logan Philhower became the first Bureau Valley baseball player to receive All-State team honors. He set three single-season records, which will be acknowledged at a Chicago White Sox game later this season, further elevating his status within the sport.

The meeting also featured a report from the Bureau Valley Trap Shooting Team. This group, guided by volunteers Tracey and Casey Carton, saw seven students compete during the spring season. The team finished first in their conference and performed admirably at the state level, with four students qualifying for the National competition in Lansing, Michigan.

Chad Gripp, superintendent of Bradford schools, expressed his appreciation for the Bureau Valley district’s commitment to welcoming and educating students from Bradford. For the upcoming school year, 25 Bradford students are expected to enroll at Bureau Valley High School.

Following the recognition segment, the board addressed various administrative matters. They approved several items, including the meeting minutes from June 25, monthly financial reports, and the appointment of board committees for the 2025-27 period. Other resolutions included authorizations for budgetary spending and the selection of Prairie Farms as the milk supplier for the 2025-26 school year.

The board also discussed the ongoing efforts of custodial and maintenance staff during the summer months. Mr. Stabler thanked a local church group for their assistance with outdoor clean-up projects at Wyanet, which included landscaping updates around the high school.

Looking ahead, the district plans to install three new video scoreboards, vital for meeting the Illinois High School Association’s new shot clock requirements. While the shot clocks will be funded by district resources, community donations from organizations such as Central Bank, TCI, and Marquis Energy will cover the cost of the scoreboards. These boards will be used in physical education classes and school events, with plans to involve students in content creation and operation.

In discussions about future facilities, meetings with the district architect have produced a draft plan for new classrooms and a gymnasium on the Manlius campus. This expansion will address the district’s need for additional space and flexibility to accommodate future student requirements. Funding for these capital improvements has been earmarked from recent bond issues.

Despite ongoing efforts to minimize expenses, Mr. Stabler informed the board of significant reductions in federal title funds and Medicaid reimbursements, which may pose financial challenges. The 21st Century Grant, which supports after-school programs, is also at risk.

Board President Justin Yepsen proposed adding an agenda item for the August meeting to discuss the demolition of the old Manlius Elementary building, which has become an eyesore. The building has already been abated, and the architect is working on the bid process for this project.

The board noted the recent resignations of Stephanie Galassi as BV Wyanet pre-K parent coordinator and Michelle Carr as BV E/JH food service staff.

The next scheduled meeting for the Bureau Valley District 340 board will take place at 18:00 on August 20, 2025, continuing their commitment to the educational excellence of the community.