Brian D Ahmer

The meeting included a discussion regarding curriculum resources, specifically addressing the need to view the main source materials, which may be textbooks or digital resources, and noting that not all resources are available on Google Classroom. It was determined that more information regarding resources would be gathered for a subsequent meeting in March. Another key agenda item involved grading guidelines, including a presentation overview of traditional versus modern grading practices, focusing on assessing learning, numerical accuracy, and equitable grading. Specific aspects discussed included the use of zeros as a motivator, the practice of allowing retakes for grades below a B, and ongoing revisions to grading documents shared with teachers. The committee also reviewed graduation requirements proposed for the class of 2030, which had previously been presented to the Board of Education in January. Future agenda items include student services setup, Math Education, and a continued review of resources and accessibility.

The meeting commenced with a resolution to recognize Dr. John Greenan, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel, for receiving the new member award from the Illinois Association of School Personnel Administrators. Board members provided positive feedback regarding the Veterans Day celebration, noting its emotional impact and successful execution. Several sports achievements were recognized, including the dance team being sectional champs, the bowling team advancing to state, and the wrestling team being conference champs. Discussions included the status of ESP contract negotiations utilizing the interest-based bargaining model. The Student Board Report detailed that the advisory council is focusing on period delay, facilities, student discipline, and mental health. The council also expressed support for implementing vape halo monitors in bathrooms and exploring online/pre-ordering options for food service to reduce lunch line times. A suggestion was made to train 30 students from each grade in first aid for mental health support. E-learning setup was praised. The Foundation Report highlighted a successful second annual prom dress fashion show with 50 donated designer dresses and noted that scholarship applications are now open with a planned change in the award ceremony format. The Legislative Report covered updates from the Illinois High School District organization regarding revised policies, with first readings expected in February and March. Significant activity is focused on English Language Learners (ELL) testing data due to low pass rates on the ACCESS test, prompting the district to join a consortium to localize data. Revisions to the ISBE accountability system and the continuing world language requirement were also noted.

The key discussions during the board meeting focused on improving student support services, specifically addressing the high social worker-to-student ratio (1:892, compared to an average of 1:440 for nearby schools) and the need to hire more staff to provide better access to mental health tools. Additionally, the board is planning an increase in graduation requirements for the class of 2030, which will necessitate three years of science, an additional half-credit of history, and an elective half-credit, corresponding with the introduction of an 8th period day. The LTHS Foundation hosted a prom fashion dress show, and scholarships are currently open with 76 opportunities available. The board is also considering a 10-year plan for infrastructure renovation and addition to the buildings.

The board meeting included recognition of Dr. John Greenan for receiving the equivalent of a rookie of the year award in Illinois for his work as assistant superintendent for personnel. Two major issues were discussed: student social-emotional needs and facilities/infrastructure. The administration recommended doubling the social worker staff due to high case loads, which impede proactive mental well-being work. Regarding facilities, the board received an update on the ongoing facilities master planning, which includes addressing major mechanical replacements, replacing obsolete bleachers, work at Central Campus, and modernization efforts at East Campus, presented as part of a proposed 10-year plan. The Superintendent also thanked staff for managing recent severe weather conditions and noted the community event celebrating veterans.

The Board of Education meeting commenced with recognition of the Lockport girls varsity volleyball team for achieving third place in the IHSA Class 3A state finals. Additionally, two National Merit Scholarship semi-finalists and a student who achieved a perfect score of 36 on the ACT were congratulated for their academic achievements. Student board members shared key takeaways from the IASB conference, emphasizing the importance of remembering that board members are human first. The Lockport District 205 foundation encouraged all senior students to apply for the available foundation scholarships. During the superintendent's report, discussions centered on various infrastructure and facility improvement projects requiring board prioritization. The principal's report highlighted recent student achievements, including performances by AP Spanish and literature students.