Edith Bender Petty

The meeting included the approval of election results and board minutes from previous meetings. The board was reorganized with new members taking the Oath of Office, followed by the election of officers, including the Board President, Vice President, and Secretary. Committee assignments were made for Curriculum, Finance, People Services, and Policy. The Superintendent's report highlighted good news from various schools, the Kankakee CEO Student Program, and discussions on software renewals, summer school, immunizations, and the FY 2026 budget. The consent agenda included approvals for regular bills, payroll, Head Start Council information, donations, and renewals for Gaggle and Care Solace. Personnel items, including resignations and appointments, were also addressed. Action items involved approving the Board of Education Meeting Schedule for the 2025-2026 school year, opting out of ISBE's College and Career Pathway Endorsement, and approving Dr. Patricia Gonzalez to work transition days. Additionally, salary increases for administrators were approved for the 2025-2026 school year.

The Kankakee School Board of Education is committed to advancing equity in all facets of the school organization. Key areas of focus include providing equitable access to high-quality instruction and resources, ensuring highly effective teachers, creating multiple pathways to success, and actively supporting high academic achievement for all students. The plan also emphasizes developing consistent hiring practices, providing professional development to address disparities, and remedying practices that lead to over- or under-representation of students of color in special education and advanced programs. Additional priorities include empowering families as essential partners, allocating financial resources equitably, and holding district staff accountable for measurable progress.

The Board of Education meeting included a public hearing regarding the intent to sell School Fire Prevention and Safety Bonds. The Superintendent's Report highlighted good news items, including donations to various schools and workshops attended by teachers. A "Safe School" traveling trophy was presented to Steuben Elementary School. The board also discussed and approved the 2015 Tax Levy, an addendum to grant of easement to the City of Kankakee, and a resolution authorizing a supplemental levy to the County Clerk. The status of the Foundation was discussed, and information was provided on various reports and updates.

The meeting included a Superintendent's report which highlighted good news, including donations to Kennedy students and the success of the District's "Stuff the Bus" event. The Superintendent also reviewed goals related to student performance, culture/climate, finance, buildings/grounds, and district accountability. The board addressed personnel items, including resignations, retirements, and appointments. Information was provided on irregular days, the 150th anniversary, state and federal revenue report, and a budget update.

The meeting included discussions on the curriculum audit, the updated remote learning policy, the visible learning conference, and the E-Learning plan. There were budget updates and recognition of Mrs. Tarcy Sealock as the East Central Regional Teacher of the Year in Illinois. The board addressed a resolution authorizing non-renewal of non-tenured teachers, recommended expulsion cases, and board member expense reimbursements. Approvals were given for LED lighting for gyms, a roof replacement project, the purchase of an updated firewall, a visible learning conference proposal, a partnership with Curriculum Management Solutions, and the purchase of a Ford Transit Cargo Van. The board also reviewed previous bill runs, monthly reports, revenue and expense statements, Head Start information, FOIA requests, and minimum wage increase information.