David Negron

The Cook County School District 104 Technology Integration Plan (2016-2020) aims to integrate technology into all aspects of the educational community to promote learning and prepare students for a global workforce. The plan is built on five pillars: Access (reliable technology access), Curriculum (technologically integrated curriculum and assessment), Professional Development (ongoing professional learning), Global Citizenship (ethical technology use), and Leadership and Infrastructure (sufficient resources and support). Specific goals include developing a technology curriculum, increasing device-to-student ratios, upgrading internet infrastructure, providing professional development for staff and parents, and fostering digital citizenship. The plan outlines SMART goals and action items for each year (2016-2020), focusing on curriculum development, access to technology, professional development, digital citizenship, and leadership and infrastructure. The plan also includes a needs assessment of staff and parents, and a review of relevant literature.

The Cook County SD 104 Board Goals aim to promote a love of learning by focusing on academic growth for every child, achieving or exceeding projected MAP growth scores in reading and math, and surpassing national averages. The plan also emphasizes curriculum enhancement through alignment with Illinois Learning Standards, expansion of dual language and STEAM programs, and exploration of a gifted education program. Increased parent and community involvement, fiscal responsibility and transparency, safe and clean facilities, and enhanced learning through technology integration are also key priorities. Specific technology goals include increased accessibility, curriculum integration, and exploration of a K-8 coding curriculum.

The meeting focused on personnel matters, specifically the approval of a personnel report. The extra duty role for a basketball coach assignment was tabled. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

The school board meeting addressed several key issues. Public comments included a letter from Michelle Manzo regarding job description changes for cross-country and wrestling coaching positions, and an email from Eva Manske concerning administrative positions, student-teacher ratios, and sports guidelines. The board also discussed the state budget, which included funding for a new special needs center. Additional topics included reports on virtual graduation, the reopening of schools in the fall, and plans for remote learning, blended learning, and a full return to in-person instruction.

The meeting included a report on extracurricular activities, focusing on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Illinois State Association (IESA) guidelines on middle school sports. Discussions covered the status of various sports, including basketball, volleyball, softball, and wrestling, and the challenges of virtual practices and limited competitions. The board also reviewed monthly financials and fund balances.