Tom Patel

Reporter · Bloomington, IL

With a background in educational policy and a degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago, Tom has spent the last 6 years covering the Bloomington school district for various outlets. He is passionate about education and has won awards for his investigative pieces on local school funding and reforms.

3 stories from Tom Patel in Decatur

High school volleyball player spiking ball during intense playoff match

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Highlights/scores: High school volleyball, boys' soccer playoffs (10/27/26)

As the sun began its descent over Central Illinois, casting long shadows across meticulously manicured fields and brightly lit gymnasium courts, a palpable energy coursed through our communities. High school athletes, fueled by years of dedication and the unwavering support of their families and...

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Concerned parents speaking at a school board meeting in Champaign, Illinois

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Champaign School District considering new method to place students in AP classes

At a recent board meeting, the air was thick with tension as concerned parents voiced their worries about new curriculum changes in the Champaign School District. The proposed 'Tracking' method for placing students in Advanced Placement (AP) courses has sparked a heated debate among educators and...

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Decatur Public Schools entering new phase of district architecture revamp

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) -- Decatur Public Schools is entering the next phase of a facilities revamp that aims to maximize space amidst declining enrollment and a budget deficit. For the last year, DPS has been implementing the Roadmap 2030 initiative. The district hired the architect firm Wold...

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