Heather Martin

The board meeting included announcements regarding a free summer City Kids Camp, student performances at the Riverfront Museum, high school graduation details for the class of 2026, and upcoming resource events at the wraparound center. Recognition was given to staff and community members through the Remarkable Spirit Award, specifically honoring a teacher at Jameson School and two coaches for their work with the Speech and Debate program. Additionally, information was provided on teacher apprenticeship opportunities and virtual mental health support services available to students.

The board meeting covered several critical items, including curriculum updates and renewals, such as the 7 Mindsets social-emotional learning curriculum, Writable English Language Arts resource, and Character Strong interventions. The board approved various operational and personnel items, including contracts with Dr. Andrew Morgan for therapy services, Aurora University and Bradley University for student internships, and Stellar Systems, Inc. for records archiving. Additionally, the board approved pay increases for non-union administrative staff, a contract extension for the EvaluWise teacher evaluation system, the purchase of Yondr phone-free pouches for middle and high schools, and equipment for the Manual High School welding program. Several board policies were updated, and a memorandum of understanding with the Peoria Federation of Teachers regarding the Grow Your Own and Alternative Teacher Pathway programs was approved.

The meeting featured student performances and presentations on district safety technology and school budgets. Key action items included the approval of an overnight field trip for the Richwoods High School Marching Knights and the adoption of the budget resolution for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Additionally, the board reviewed information reports regarding financial updates, proposed expenditures, freedom of information requests, and staff salary compensation. A suspension review appeal was also considered, along with travel authorizations for various staff conferences.

The board meeting agenda included various acknowledgments and recognitions, such as student attendance improvements and program success showcases. Key action items featured a revision to the student tuition waiver policy for children of district employees and a resolution to authorize a three million dollar transfer from the Working Cash Fund to the Transportation Fund to address negative balances due to bus fleet upgrades. The board also reviewed information items including administrative updates, financial reports, and records of various upcoming professional development travel and conferences.

The Board of Education reviewed and approved a comprehensive human resources report encompassing personnel changes across the district. Key actions included the appointment of new certified and non-certified staff, such as teachers, counselors, administrators, behavioral attendants, and support personnel. The report also detailed various leaves of absence for district staff, as well as resignations, retirements, and dismissals across multiple departments. Additionally, appointments for student workers and substitute personnel were presented for board approval.