Donna Hansen

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.

The committee discussed the upcoming replacement of the Walsh gym floor and associated asbestos removal by Construction, Inc. Discussions also covered the current progress of the FY26 budget, including plans for a future amended budget, and preparations for the FY27 budget process involving staffing, insurance, and transportation costs. Additionally, the committee reviewed a plan to transfer funds from the Capital Fund to the Ed Fund.

The board meeting included recognitions for outstanding bus riders and a special celebration for a cross country and track coach's distinguished achievements. Administrative reports covered early enrollment strategies for the 2026-2027 school year, weather monitoring, and fiscal year-end reporting. The board discussed school district funding challenges, updates to staff evaluation tools based on the Danielson framework, technology projects including new hardware and visitor management software, and building maintenance updates regarding sound panels and life safety surveys.

The meeting featured presentations and celebrations of student achievements, including a state championship performance. Discussion topics included an update on union negotiations, the recognition of staff members for their response to a facility maintenance emergency, and a report on an AI trailblazer initiative. Administrative business involved the rescheduling of an upcoming board meeting due to local elections, an update on student enrollment numbers and class sizing strategies, and a review of facility projects including the evaluation of architect firms and the status of gym floor and kitchen renovations.