James Bock

Key discussions included an update on student performance regarding Wildly Important Goals (WIGs) and Winter MAP assessment results, noting that the state proficiency baseline has changed, affecting direct comparability with prior years. The committee also reviewed the Request for Proposal (RFP) process for a Dual Language Program Evaluation, which involved reviewing ten proposals and selecting three for reference checks before a final vendor recommendation on February 17, 2026. Furthermore, the Deputy Superintendent presented her detailed entry and transition plan for assuming the Superintendent role effective July 1, 2026, outlining priorities such as bolstering stakeholder relations, establishing Board working agreements, and overseeing facility projects like the consolidation of the K-5 dual language program and building returns.

The meeting commenced with a closed session to discuss personnel matters concerning the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees. Upon reconvening to open session, the agenda was approved. Recognition was given to the co-chairs of the 112 Education Foundation's FUNd Run event for raising $58,000, and appreciation was extended to the event organizers and the Foundation's executive director. The Superintendent's report highlighted calendar events, the 9th Annual Robot Revolution, and the annual Day of Giving. A presentation on the student engagement survey results for grades 3-8 showed high student perceptions of safety and belonging, with areas identified for growth in student agency and intrinsic motivation, which align with the Strategic Change Agenda. The administration presented recommendations for two lease extensions: one for off-site warehouse storage until June 30, 2029, and another for the Operations, Maintenance, and Transportation Department building lease extension until April 2029. The proposed 2026-27 student fee schedule was shared, noting that most fees remain unchanged, except for the Early Childhood fee, which is contingent upon the Preschool For All Grant. The Board was informed of Freedom of Information Act requests received in November 2025. The Consent Agenda was approved, covering personnel recommendations including appointments and resignations, the Bill List, Treasurer's Report, destruction of old Closed Session Recordings, and the public release of older Closed Session Minutes. The Board subsequently approved the 3-year lease extension agreement for the 1495 Old Deerfield Rd. facility. Committee reports provided updates on the Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee, the Human Relations Advisory Group's planning for the MLK Day of Service, Highwood Library resources, 112 Education Foundation activities, Finance Committee discussions, PTO Presidents Council updates, and legislative proposals from ED RED and TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804. The Board adjourned to a second closed session regarding personnel matters before adjourning the meeting.

The meeting included an adjournment to closed session for discussing employee appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal. Key discussions in open session included calendar highlights, the commencement of 2026-27 student registration and Dual Language program applications, and updates from the Dual Language Task Force subcommittees. The Board received information regarding partnerships for digital citizenship webinars and the ongoing work drafting a comprehensive framework for artificial intelligence use within the district. An update on the Food Service Request for Proposal (RFP) process was provided, detailing the planned procurement timeline and transparency measures. The Board reviewed a recommendation to amend the 2026-27 school calendar to correct an excess of instructional days, setting a new end date of June 3, 2027. A first reading was conducted for numerous policy updates based on recommendations from the Illinois Association of School Boards PRESS Issue 120. The Board was informed of Freedom of Information Act requests received and responded to between December 2025 and early January 2026. Action items approved via consent agenda included personnel recommendations, the bill list, the Treasurer's Report, and the destruction of older Closed Session Recordings. Further actions included the approval of a 3-year lease extension for off-site warehouse storage and the approval of the 2026-27 student fee schedule, contingent on the Preschool For All Grant outcome. Finally, the Board voted to affirm the superintendent's decision regarding a uniform grievance procedure complaint.

The meeting included an adjournment to closed session to discuss personnel matters, followed by reconvening to open session. Key discussions included recognition for School Board Member Day, updates from the Deputy Superintendent concerning Braeside School's achievement level, construction progress, and detailed updates from the Dual Language Task Force subcommittees (including planning for an RFP for an outside consultant). The board also reviewed upcoming votes regarding the TrueNorth 804 Cooperative reorganization. A public hearing was held regarding the 2025 Tax Levy, which proposed a 4.5% increase to cover construction costs and inflation, though no public comments were offered. The 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report/Audit Report was presented, resulting in a clean audit opinion. A presentation covered the 2025 IAR results and State Report Card data, noting exemplary and commendable designations for schools. The board considered recommending an application for the FY26 Round 1 School Maintenance Project Grant for a fire pump at Braeside. Several Freedom of Information requests were reported. The consent agenda covered routine items, including the approval of past meeting minutes, personnel recommendations (appointments, resignations, and stipends), the bill list, and destruction of old recordings. Major actions included approving the FY25 Audit, approving the NSEA Memorandum of Understanding for homebound tutoring, rescinding the prior intent to withdraw from True North 804, approving the Final Tax Levy for 2025, approving the abatement of property tax for debt service on General Obligation Bonds, approving the School Maintenance Project Grant application, approving Baker Tilly agreements for IRA tax consulting for the Ravinia geothermal project, and approving a Notice to Remedy for a teacher.

The meeting included recognizing students for their participation in the cross-country state meet and the technology team for earning the Trusted Learning Environment Mini Seal. Discussions covered Native American Heritage Month, the Highland Park Community Foundation's Golden Apple Award, and the 112 Education Foundation FUNd Run. The board also discussed dual language consolidation, upcoming calendar highlights, access to Generative Artificial Intelligence tools for parents, and mental health resources. Additionally, there was a recommendation for Intergovernmental Agreements with the Exceptional Learners Collaborative, a Memorandum of Understanding for homebound tutoring, a draft resolution abating property tax levied for 2025, and a recommendation to rescind the Notice of Intent to Withdraw from True North 804. The board also reviewed Freedom of Information Requests, approved Baker Tilly Agreements for IRA Tax Consulting for Geothermal Projects, and approved the 2026 International Field Trip to the Dominican Republic.