Arlington Heights School District 25

This document outlines the concept of a 'Preferred Future Statement' for Arlington Heights District 25, defining it as an aspirational vision within a strategic plan. It details key characteristics, best practices for development, and the core benefits of aligning mission, vision, graduate profile, and core values. The document also presents various options for the district's mission statement, vision statement, core values, and graduate portrait competencies, aiming to establish an integrated operating system for guiding decisions, aligning priorities, and fostering coherence across the organization.

The Board of Education convened for a regular session, which included an initial closed session to discuss employee matters, litigation, and the setting of property sale prices. Upon returning to open session, the meeting featured recognitions for middle school band and jazz band members who participated in the ILMEA District 7 Honor Festival, students who qualified for the All-Illinois Junior Band, and the South Middle School 8th Grade Girls Basketball Team that placed third in the State Tournament. A presentation of the 2024-2025 Financial Audit was provided by Baker Tilly, LLC, noting strong internal controls. Communications were received from the PTA, ABC25 Foundation (regarding Box Out Bullying events and a future fundraiser), and the ATA. The Consent Agenda approved personnel actions, invoices, board bills, and the minutes from the December 16, 2025 meetings. In Business and Finance, the Board approved the 2026 ISBE School Maintenance Grant to offset costs for the fire alarm system at South Middle School. In Facilities Management, the Board approved the Ten-Year Life Safety Survey submission and the 2026 Capital Projects. In Personnel and Planning, the INSIGHTeX staff satisfaction and engagement report was presented, showing a slight decrease in the overall satisfaction/engagement score, and a resolution was approved for the dismissal of a substitute teacher. The Superintendent provided updates, including Freedom of Information Act report responses. Discussion occurred regarding student voice initiatives. The Board conducted a first reading of several PRESS policies and exhibits, which will return for a second reading in February. Resolutions were approved authorizing the transfer of engagement/appointment of legal counsel, and two resolutions were introduced for a vote in February: one calling on Cook County officials to resolve systemic property tax bill issues, and another prohibiting the use of school district property for civil immigration enforcement staging areas. The meeting concluded with a return to closed session.

This document outlines a future strategy recommendation based on an analysis of SWOT and vision, detailing five long-range strategic goals. These goals include enhancing student achievement through curriculum alignment, strengthening core instruction, and improving special education outcomes. It also focuses on cultivating a supportive learning environment by building MTSS frameworks and social-emotional systems. Furthermore, the plan aims to foster a positive working environment through effective data teams, professional development, and leadership systems. It seeks to build robust family and community partnerships through improved communication and engagement structures, and to optimize resources through strategic allocation models aligned with student outcomes.

This engagement summary reports on feedback regarding the district's mission, vision, core values, and Portrait of a Learner. The mission emphasizing inclusivity and community support, and the vision focusing on joyful learning and clear expectations, received strong participant preference. Core values and the Portrait of a Learner are also widely endorsed as essential for student success. The report identifies areas for refinement to enhance clarity, meaningfulness, and inclusivity across these strategic components.

This document summarizes feedback from staff and middle school students on the district's Preferred Future Statement, which encompasses its mission, vision, core values, and Portrait of a Learner. It reveals a predominantly positive sentiment, with strong support for the district's strategic components. Key feedback highlights include a preference for an inclusive and caring community, joyful learning environments, and the identification of 'Everyone belongs here' as the most important core value. The summary also notes suggestions for enhancing clarity, fostering academic excellence, improving student wellness, and ensuring that described skills are crucial for post-graduation success.