Berkeley School District 87

The board discussed facilities, including a 10-year health, life, and safety report, and reviewed school improvement efforts, specifically focusing on attendance and reading progress at Whittier Primary School. Key topics included prioritizing safety compliance items, implementing strategies to improve student attendance, and reviewing reading data across grade levels to address learning gaps.

The board meeting centered on a comprehensive presentation regarding school improvement plans at MacArthur, including efforts to foster a sense of belonging and community among students and staff. Discussion topics included the implementation of restorative practices, student council involvement, academic assessment progress, and initiatives to increase student engagement and morale through school-wide activities and advisory groups.

Key discussions and actions included the approval of expenditures totaling $4,340,732.82, covering payroll and accounts payable. The Board approved the employment and leaves of absence for both licensed and educational support staff. Furthermore, the Board approved a consulting agreement with Entropia Education Professional Development Services and authorized the creation of a new position: Director of Special Education for Teaching and Learning. Fundraiser requests for Box Tops for Education and a Little Caesar Fundraiser were approved. Business Services reported on the summary of budget statement of position and authorized the Superintendent to prepare the 2026-2027 budget tentatively, as well as authorized the offering of student accident insurance for 2026-2027. An action was also taken to authorize the Superintendent to execute a utility supply agreement to secure fixed utility rates, pending ratification at the next meeting. The Superintendent provided an update on the draft 2026-2027 school calendar development, and updates were shared regarding special education staff support and Institute Day planning.

The meeting included an audit presentation for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2025, where the District received the highest level of assurance. The Board approved expenditures totaling $3,237,833.77, covering payrolls and accounts payable. Discussions covered the Monthly Building Rental Report and updates from leadership teams regarding school improvement, data analysis, and the new early literacy screener legislation. The Board adopted the 2025 Tax Levy Resolutions and accepted the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Audited Financial Statements. Additionally, the Board approved the settlement for property tax objections for Tax Year 2021. Human Resources reported on staff vacancies and the progress of the Bloomboard program. The Board also approved the resolution to renew the agreement with the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission until December 31, 2030, and approved renaming the Parent Advisory Committee to the PTAC/Behavioral Interventions Committee. Several fundraiser requests were approved, and the Board addressed administrator and staff leaves of absence and new employment.

The meeting focused on updates from school personnel, including a presentation recognizing the Bloom Board teacher pathway scholars who completed their first semester of coursework. An update on student achievement at Jefferson detailed goals and strategies for reading and math proficiency, showing progress in foundational skills and emotional reading levels, as well as data analysis procedures involving teacher collaboration and data days. Key initiatives discussed included consistent conferencing, analyzing data to drive instruction, and embedding special education involvement across curriculum areas to ensure false curriculum alignment. Math goals emphasized utilizing discourse strategies for engagement and building grade-level standard capacity. Reading celebrations highlighted various in-class, grade-level, and school-wide incentives for student reading accomplishments.