Good morning, Decatur.

Decatur schools reported better scores on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness compared to last year—chronic student absences remain a problem.

Yesterday, Principal Rita Ellis and ag teacher Delia Jackson (from Ellsworth Dansby Jr. Magnet School) joined Byers and Co (on a podcast) to discuss the magnet school lottery and their ag program.

Three schools in Macon County earned an exemplary rating on the Illinois Report Card.

The report card (issued statewide) noted that Warrensburg-Latham, Maroa-Forsyth, and Mount Zion schools met high performance standards (scoring in the top range).

Decatur is moving into Stage 1 Water Rationing as water levels in Lake Decatur continue to fall due to ongoing drought since mid-August—residents and businesses are urged to limit water use for irrigation, vehicle washing, and other nonessential purposes while alternative sources are tapped and major users are engaged.

50th Annual Turkey Trot

8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. — Fairview Park — Registration fee varies — Participate in a festive race with options for all ages including a virtual race.

Nutcracker Performance

7 PM – 1 AM — Richland Community College — Tickets $15 ($12 for kids and seniors) — Experience a delightful local interpretation of Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet with community talent.

Fleet Feet Santa Shuffle

3:40-9:40 p.m. — Decatur Brew Works — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a festive run leading up to the Decatur Christmas Parade.