Adlai E. Stevenson High School District 125

The Board of Education focused their discussion on reviewing the FY26 and FY27 budgets, the levy, and long-term planning for the district.

The Board of Education meeting covered a variety of administrative and academic topics, including student presentations on the TEAACH Act and Asian American History, student success stories, and a report from the Student Council representative. The Fine Arts Music team presented on Teaching and Learning Principles and Wellness Pillars. The Board approved the 2026-2027 textbook recommendations and a lease renewal for 954 Corporate Woods Parkway. Several items were presented for a first reading, including curriculum changes for the 2027-2028 school year, the Lake County Sales Tax Resolution, the appointment of the District Treasurer, the purchase of a Treasurer's Bond, tentative budget drafts for FY27 and amended FY26, a security system maintenance contract with Convergint, music instrument and yearbook/photography service bids, and the replacement of multifunction devices. Additionally, the Board authorized placing budget notices on display and scheduling public hearings for the budget reviews, reviewed FOIA requests, and approved the Consent Agenda items including the human resources report and monthly expenditures.

The meeting agenda includes a student activities report and curriculum-related matters such as Ambassador Awards, curriculum team presentations, and approval of 2027-28 curriculum letters of intent. New business covers personnel items, including graduate program approvals, and various business operations such as the appointment of a Treasurer, security systems maintenance contracts, replacement of multifunction devices, and the award of music instrument bids. Several items are slated for a first reading, including administrative salary pools, county indemnification agreements, and intergovernmental agreements. The board will also address financial reports, expenditure approvals, and the release or destruction of closed session materials.

This document outlines a recommendation to integrate a distinct, weighted arts indicator into Illinois' Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) State Plan. The proposed indicator is composed of three sub-measures: student participation in arts, quality of instruction by licensed arts teachers, and student voice collected through surveys. It advocates for a phased implementation commencing in the 2020-2021 academic year, featuring an equitable design that considers and adjusts for varying school resources. The overarching goal is to position Illinois as a leader in arts education, provide a comprehensive and competitive education for all students, equip them with essential skills for college and career readiness, and allow schools to effectively communicate their achievements.

The meeting focused on analyzing student performance data and trends, particularly regarding growth in art projects. Discussion topics included the impact of student maturity and life experience on skill development, strategies for supporting students with Individualized Education Programs, and the utilization of organizational tools. The team also reviewed peer-mentoring initiatives, methods for providing feedback on assignments, the benefits of office hours and after-school lab sessions, and preparations for upcoming master print final assessments.