When the new contract was signed with the Huntley Teachers Association, there was a provision that non-teachers could be hired to do things that didn’t require a teacher.

Jobs like bus duty, keeping score at sporting events. Jobs teachers were getting paid $28 an hour to do.

Before Christmas I sent an email to District 158 about why none of these jobs had been posted on its web site or advertised in local papers.

I finally got an answer yesterday.

Here is what Chief Human Resources Officer Lauren Smith sent me:

I understand you have requested this information, I do apology for any delays.

We have posted the positions in both the Northwest Herald (1/4-1/8 print and on-line) and the Daily Herald (1/7-1/10 print). We also have the info posted on our website under support employment. These opportunities have also been made available to our current support staff.

We have received approx 90+ applications. Please note that this number does not represent the number of qualified applicants, only the number received.

Please let me know if you have any other questions. Feel free to call if you like.

Here’s what I was able to find on the district’s web site:

Consolidated School District 158 is currently seeking applicants for Student and Activities Supervisors. Positions are available from PreK – 12th grade with a pay rate of $14.00 per hour, school certification not required. Schedules varies with flexible hours. Interested applicants may apply on-line @ www.district158.org or in person @ 650 Academic Drive, Algonquin, IL 60102.

So, if you’d like to earn $14 an hour, give Huntley School District 158 a call.

Estimates are that the school district could save a couple of hundred thousand dollars a year by paying $14, rather than $28 an hour for such jobs.

It is hard to understand why District 158 has waited so long to save 50% on these labor costs.