Dorith P. Johnson

The board discussed a wide range of items, including revisions to the Board Policy Manual, the establishment of a Tri-M Music Honor Society chapter, and the procurement of new textbooks, furniture, and network infrastructure. They also addressed staffing needs, such as hiring a contractual vision itinerant, approving a substitute teacher compensation schedule, and authorizing salary increases for temporary custodians. Additionally, the meeting covered an athletic training service renewal, principal student outreach subsidies, liability insurance renewal, and the engagement of a CPA firm for financial audits. Significant action was taken regarding the construction of a new district fieldhouse, including the approval of a public hearing process for a $40,000,000 interfund transfer. Finally, a request for use of facilities from the City of Chicago Heights for a parade and picnic was reviewed.

The board met to address new business, specifically the employment of a new Principal for Bloom Trail High School, which was approved with a set annual salary.

The board meeting agenda covered a variety of administrative, financial, and policy-related items. Key actions included approving salary schedules for administrative, non-administrative, and security staff for the upcoming school year. The board reviewed and considered revisions to the Board Policy Manual, including new policy adoption. Additional approvals were granted for attendance at an upcoming joint annual conference, the 2026-2027 meeting calendar, an e-Learning plan, and several service contracts, including assessments, occupational therapy, and classroom management software. The board also authorized the purchase of technology equipment, such as Microsoft Office licenses and computers, and approved the acquisition of a vehicle. A closed session was scheduled to address student discipline, employment and personnel matters, collective bargaining, pending litigation, and the review of previous closed session minutes, with potential subsequent action items regarding employee terminations.

The board convened a special meeting to address the selection of a candidate to fill a vacant board position. Following a closed session, the board officially appointed an interim member, who subsequently took the oath of office and joined the board table. Additionally, the board held a nomination and vote to select a new Vice-President.

The Board meeting included a Superintendent's report with updates from student representatives and discussions regarding potential medical insurance renewal. Staff and student recognition segments were conducted. Action items included awarding diplomas to the Class of 2026, approving a fundraiser, authorizing software and research applications, reviewing an e-learning plan, and making administrative and personnel appointments. The Board also approved several financial items, including the acceptance of an annual audit, bid approvals for cafeteria services and construction projects, and the purchase of a security vehicle. The meeting concluded with closed session deliberations concerning employment and legal matters.