David Blatchley

The Board conducted public hearings regarding an amended budget and a fund transfer, focusing on special education transportation expenditures and legal requirements for maintaining fund balances. The meeting also featured the recognition of retiring staff, an AFT union report concerning ongoing contract negotiations, and administrative updates regarding a demographic enrollment study, updates to the school calendar, gym floor abatement progress, a new worker's accident triage pilot program, and a vehicle replacement insurance claim.

The board meeting included recognitions for student achievements and staff contributions. Administrative updates were provided regarding district projects, professional development, and technological infrastructure. The board approved the Consolidated District Plan and the job description and salary for a physical therapist. Additionally, lunch prices for the upcoming school year were established. The board also discussed the implementation of fifth-grade departmentalization, potential bus driver attendance benefits, future meeting dates, steering committee updates, and plans to improve instructional minutes and resources for mathematics and English Language Arts at Oak Prairie.

The Board convened a special meeting to conduct a closed session for the purpose of discussing collective negotiating matters and salary schedules for classes of employees.

The board recognized students for their achievements at the Illinois Music Educators Conference and staff for receiving state awards. The student council reported on various spring events and initiatives. Administrative reports covered topics including student enrollment trends, building maintenance, curriculum collaboration, technology pricing, and staffing changes. Board action included approving the job description and a new position for a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, the Middle School PACE Framework, the award of a contract for Walsh School flooring and door replacements, an architecture proposal for pre-design services at Ludwig School, and a memorandum of understanding for crisis mutual aid. Additionally, the board discussed the Consolidated District Plan and held an executive session.

The board meeting featured recognitions for the State Cheerleading Champions and district staff for their assistance during a facility emergency. Administrative reports included updates on AI learning trends, long-term financial planning, planned hiring for specialized student service positions, an assessment of a departmentalized model for the fifth-grade team, and technology hardware status. Board actions included the approval of revised board policies and a resolution authorizing a property tax assessment appeal regarding a local refinery. Discussions were held concerning a future proposal for a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a memorandum of understanding for mutual aid assistance within Will County.