During its regular meeting on Wednesday, November 20, the John Wood Community College Board of Trustees approved a five-year lease agreement with Parent and Child Together (PACT) of West Central Illinois.
PACT Head Start will operate a childcare facility within leased space at JWCC’s Quincy campus. The organization will serve 16 qualifying children ages 0 to 3 years old, including children of JWCC students who meet requirements.
JWCC President Dr. Bryan Renfro shared that construction on the renovated area in the southeastern portion of the JWCC Learning Center is right on schedule for the PACT to begin operation after the holidays. Starting in January 2025, free daycare will be provided Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by PACT professionals.
The center will also serve as an observation site for students in JWCC’s Early Childhood and Education programs. JWCC currently has 84 of students enrolled in early childhood and education programs.
“The partnership with PACT Head Start is one way we are making our vision of being community’s partner in workforce development and lifelong learning become reality,” JWCC President Dr. Bryan Renfro said. “Providing a space for families to have high-quality childcare helps them pursue a college education and continue to be productive employees. The bonus is JWCC students in early childhood and education pathways can observe professionals in real-world situations as part of their training.”
In other business, the Board:
Approved the 2024 aggregate tax rate excluding debt service of $0.34622 per $100 of Equalized Assessed Valuation. The full levy and total rate for 2024 will be considered by Trustees at the December meeting.
Approved submission of a $65,000 grant application to the Illinois Community College Board for Adult Education Digital Instruction.
Approved a $5,000 grant application to the United Way of Adams County for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program’s Carry Out Caravan and Friendly Caller community services.
Approved the acceptance and filing of the audit report.
Denied a proposed amicable separation agreement request from an employee.
Approved regular Board of Trustees meeting dates for 2025.
Authorized entry into a one-year lease agreement with Two Rivers Regional Council of Public Officials for space at the JWCC Mt. Sterling Educational Center.
The next meeting will be held Wednesday, December 18, at 6:00 p.m. at the JWCC Quincy campus.
