Coal City, IL News

The Coal City Theatre Department is set to stage the Illinois premiere of "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition." This event marks a significant milestone as it is part of a national initiative by Broadway Licensing Global. The department was one of 70 high school programs that applied for the opportunity, with only 29 schools nationwide selected to present the play this fall.

Students in Ms. George’s class at Coal City High School participated in an exercise designed to enhance their teamwork and direction-following skills by preparing a snack called blueberry banana bites. This activity was part of an extension from their weekly news article.

Students at Coal City Early Childhood Center participated in an ABC Bootcamp Fashion Show organized by Mrs. Wren and Miss Jackman's kindergarten class. Over the first 26 days of school, students were introduced to each letter of the alphabet, its sound, and related vocabulary.

Manufacturing Day, a career exploration initiative for high school students, was recently observed in Illinois. The event, part of the Manufacturing Institute's efforts, is officially held on the first Friday of October. In Illinois, it coincides with Manufacturing Month as recognized by the state's Manufacturers' Association.

In first grade science, students are exploring the wonders of the sky. Recently, Mrs. Duffy's class delved into understanding how the sun travels from east to west during the day. This lesson included observing how this movement influences shadows. Students expressed their excitement upon discovering that their shadows shift positions.

The Coal City High School Athletic Department and Soccer Team honored Sam Sterba for his four-year dedication to the Coaler Soccer Team during Senior Night on October 3. As the sole senior on the team this fall, Sterba's efforts in advancing the program have been acknowledged by his peers and mentors. Additionally, he is part of the school's Tennis Team.

In the Unit 1 School District, five teachers have been recognized as Star Teachers for their contributions to education and the school community. The recognition comes from the Coal City Community Unit Education Association, which represents the district's certified staff. Each academic building selected one teacher through nominations submitted by their colleagues.

Mr. Kostbade's Environmental Science class recently conducted a field trip to the Coal City Area Club on October 2 as part of their study on aquatic ecosystems. During the visit, students measured various water quality parameters of the lake, such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, water transparency, and nitrate levels. The class was accompanied by Georgette Vota, a member of the Area Club who has experience in testing these waters.

The online Coaler Store is now operational, offering a range of Coaler merchandise. Customers can choose from T-shirts, sweatshirts, and pullovers in various styles, colors, and sizes for both youth and adults.

Alec Waliczek, Zander Meents, William Johnke, and Landin Benson were among the senior football players honored on Senior Night at Coal City High School. Alec Waliczek, who has been a team captain for four years, also participates in wrestling and other extracurricular activities. He plans to study finance at a four-year university.

Calleigh VanderWerken, Ella Edwards, and Sydney Hughes were honored on Senior Night for their contributions to the cheerleading squad. Calleigh VanderWerken joined the team in her junior year and has been a positive influence. She is also involved in Coalers with Character and the National Honor Society. On Senior Night, she was accompanied by her parents Megan and Steve VandeWerken. After graduation, she plans to pursue a nursing major.

Kindergarten students are being introduced to characters designed to assist them in developing reading and writing skills. Cass, who has a passion for cooking, is helping students with words that start with the sound /k/ and the letter Cc. In celebration, students made cooking caps like Cass's and prepared their own snacks.

Coal City High School golfer Jerry Carlson secured a place in the Illinois High School Association's Sectional Golf Tournament after finishing among the top 15 golfers at the IHSA Boys Golf Regional. The event was hosted by Coal City at Cinder Ridge Golf Course, where Carlson completed his round with a score of 84.

The Lady Coaler Golf Team achieved a significant milestone by securing first place at the Illinois High School Association’s Regional Tournament held at Dwight Country Club on October 1. This victory marks a historic moment as they become the first girls' golf team from their school to win a Regional Championship.

Dakota Clubb, a senior and four-year member of the Lady Coaler golf team, was honored on Senior Night. Clubb, who was the 2023 Ladies Golf ICE Conference Champion, plans to study criminology at Joliet Junior College after graduation. Coach Tim Gabehart praised her contributions to the team since her freshman year, saying she will be missed. She was accompanied by her parents Brandon and Stephanie Clubb.

Illinois State Senator Tom Bennett convened a meeting of the Youth Advisory Council on October 2. Four students from Coal City High School participated in this event. The group was accompanied by social studies teacher Ben Baer, who noted that the students are actively engaged and learning about legislation and policy-making processes.

Senior members of the Marching Coaler Band and color guard were honored on Senior Night for their dedication to the music program. Kyliee Jones, accompanied by her mother Jen Weller, plans to enter the workforce after high school.