Last month, the Bement school district approved a nearly $2-million project to connect two of its buildings on its campus in the small Piatt County town.

Part of the ability to do a project like that was private donors but also financial stability within the district. Superintendent Mary Vogt calls herself blessed thanks to the efforts of her predecessor, Dr Shiela Greenwood, who helped get the district back on solid financial footing.

According to Vogt, the district budget is very healthy, with a projected $ 7 million in the bank. It is that message that she and the Board of Education are trying to convey to their community, despite heavy rumors to the contrary.

The Bement budget is largely funded by local dollars. Vogt indicates those dollars are very steady and reliable.

Bement recently entered into separate co-ops for high school football and wrestling. Vogt says it was those co-ops that have led some in the community to question the financial health of the district.