McLean County
Unit District
No. 5

School
Office  
309.862.3440
Attendance 
309.862.3525
Fax
309.862.3419

School History

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Colene Hoose

Colene Hoose Elementary School opened its doors in the fall of 1965 with 350 pupils and 20 staff members. The original building consisted of 13 rooms, but quickly outgrew its capacity.  An addition was added in 1968, which increased the size of the building by adding a new library, a second gym, 10 special education classrooms, and 3 general education classrooms.  Colene Hoose was named in honor of Miss Colene Hoose, a uniquely gifted teacher of art, speech, and drama.  She was born December 29, 1908 in Atlanta, Il. Graduated as Valedictorian from Illinois Wesleyan University, she began her 38 year teaching career in the Unit 5 system. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, she sponsored the Drama Club and Thespians, and directed 79 major plays at the high school.  Following her retirement, she continued to be active in Community Players, both as director and actor. She died in 1985 at the age of 76. There have been 4 principals of Colene Hoose: Dr. Robert H. Beamer (1965-1988), John Pye (1988-1995), James Braksick (1995-2004) and Edward Heineman (2004-present).  In addition, there have been two interim principals: Miss Trunella Trent (1968) and Mrs. Victoria Freeman (1988.)    

This page created and maintained by Jim Broach

   | Last updated  | ©2001 Colene Hoose Elementary School