DANVILLE, IL (Chambana Today) – Danville School District 118 is closed today, Tuesday, February 18, due to a significant number of staff absences. The closure, which affects all schools in the district, comes amid ongoing concerns about staffing issues and recent rumors of a “sick out” by district staff.
The district has stated that extracurricular activities will continue as planned. The district plans to resume classes on Wednesday, February 19, “We have full intentions of resuming on Wednesday. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause,” the notice, issued by Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Schools John Hart, read.
Rumors had circulated that some school staff would be absent in protest of Superintendent Alicia Geddis’ continued remote work arrangements. The district’s board is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, where possible actions regarding the issue will be discussed.
In response to the rumors, the Danville Education Association, through a post on its Facebook page, clarified that no strike or “sick out” was being organized. “No strike/No Lockout. A. It is specifically understood that neither the association nor its members shall participate in or encourage, either directly or indirectly, a strike or any other form of interference with the normal operation of the school system or any of its programs,” the union’s post stated.
The situation highlights the tensions within the district as it deals with staffing challenges and ongoing demands for policy adjustments.