Brandi Steele

The board meeting primarily focused on convening an executive session to discuss and consider contractual and personnel matters. Key topics included legal advice regarding the employment and contractual assignments of the associate to the superintendent, as well as contractual terms concerning the selection of an interim superintendent.

The board meeting and public hearing focused on the review and revision of the expenditure budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, including maintenance and operations, district additional assistance, and the classroom site fund. Key topics included discussions on average daily membership fluctuations, override funding, carry-forward adjustments from previous years, and state-level supplements. The board also held a recognition ceremony to honor retiring district staff, including teachers, administrators, and support personnel, celebrating their years of service to the school district.

The strategic plan for the Peoria Unified School District, identified as a five-year initiative, focuses on four key areas. These areas include enhancing student learning to promote growth, proficiency, and post-secondary success; ensuring comprehensive school safety through preparedness, intervention, and social-emotional support; upholding strong stewardship of resources, covering equitable pay structures, policy alignment, and cybersecurity; and cultivating robust community partnerships and connectedness. The plan aims to guide the district's future, integrate technology, and foster a collaborative, 'design up' approach to education.

The 21st Century Education Forum focused on five key areas: budget, curriculum, college and career readiness, safety, and technology. The event included presentations on the current district landscape, strategic planning, and the importance of community engagement. Breakout sessions were designed to gather feedback on these topics to help set future district priorities and targets, particularly in the face of ongoing economic challenges.

The committee reviewed the Peoria Unified School District survey results and discussed the 2020 Bond and Override election results. Additional topics included information regarding the upcoming November 8, 2022 election, a presentation on school repurposing, and an enrollment and demographic presentation. The committee also discussed adding a meeting in May to the schedule and finalized future agenda items.