Lake County Gazette

Du Quoin Community Unit School District 300 is preparing to honor Veterans Day with several events and schedule changes throughout November. The district expressed its appreciation for veterans, stating, "As we recognize Veterans Day this month, Du Quoin Community Unit School District extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces. Your courage, dedication, and sacrifice safeguard the freedoms we enjoy each day."

The district will host a Veterans Celebration at the Flagpole on Friday, November 7. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. at the K-8 campus and will feature first-grade students working together with the Du Quoin Middle School Band. According to the announcement, "All area veterans are warmly invited to attend as our students lead the Pledge of Allegiance, band plays patriotic songs and share a moment of gratitude in honor of those who have served our country."

School officials also announced closures for Veterans Day observance. "In observance of Veterans Day, all Du Quoin schools will be closed Mon., Nov. 10 - Tues., Nov. 11. We encourage our students, staff, and families to take time to reflect on the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans." The community is encouraged to participate in the Du Quoin Chamber of Commerce’s Veterans Day Parade on Tuesday, November 11 at 10:00 a.m. in downtown Du Quoin.

Other upcoming dates include a late start for school improvement on Monday, November 17. Classes will begin at 9:00 a.m., giving staff time for professional development.

Superintendent Diana Rea stated, "We look forward to celebrating this special week with our students, staff, and community."

The district serves Perry and Jackson counties through Du Quoin Elementary School, Du Quoin High School, and Du Quoin Middle School (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). As reported by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), there are 103 teachers employed by the district with an average salary of $52,174; about three-quarters are women (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). Student demographics show that approximately 83.8 percent are White; Black students make up nearly five percent; Hispanic students account for about three percent; Asian students represent less than one percent (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). In fiscal year 2020, spending per student was $16,356 for a total expenditure exceeding $24 million (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).