Jeff Knapp

The meeting commenced with a Public Hearing on the e-Learning Program, which was subsequently adjourned before the Regular Meeting was called to order. Key discussions included a presentation on the results of the Studer Annual Survey, noting positive momentum in climate and relationships but concerns regarding staff workload and clarity of communication, alongside declines in student perceptions of academic challenge. The Superintendent's Report also detailed updates on the Math Curricular Review process, which is moving toward finalizing a K-8 system recommendation. Furthermore, administration presented a preliminary staffing plan for the 2026/2027 school year, proposing a net increase of 12.6 FTE certified staff, primarily to expand in-district special education services and instructional coaching. Actions included approving purchases for student devices (MacBooks and iPads) under an outright annual model, reviewing the January 2026 Financial Report, and approving a resolution to join the Cook County Tax Coalition to advocate against future property tax revenue delays. The Board also approved numerous policy revisions following second reads and accepted a proposal for a physical security assessment across all district schools.

The meeting agenda included procedural items such as a call to order and roll call, followed by a public comment period. Key discussions involved the Monthly Financial Report, staffing costs for the 26/27 period, the 1:1 Device Refresh plan, and the scope, costs, and bid process for the Health Life Safety Summer 2026 projects. Detailed discussions regarding staffing focused on tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for interventions, comparing instructional coaches versus interventionists, determining the correct role for tech associates (IT vs. tech fluency/break-fix support), and assessing the need for an in-house security person. The device refresh discussion centered on a four-year refresh cycle for student iPads, starting with 1st and 5th grades, and recouping costs. The Health Life Safety (HLS) discussion involved overall estimates for interior door replacement, totaling between $1.8 million and $2.5 million, and assessing how reserves would cover these costs.

The Policy Subcommittee reviewed policy 5:270, Employment At-Will, Compensation, and Assignment, for its first reading, focusing on modifications to notice time for at-will employees as identified during the 5-year review. Discussion also covered policy and procedural updates regarding Therapy Dogs, requiring the School Board attorney to review recommendations and provide edits for policy 6:100 Animals in the Classroom. Further topics included policies addressing employee conflict of interest, tutoring policy 6:202, and current/past practices for end-of-life devices. The subcommittee also established best practices for reviewing District-specific policies.

This plan outlines The Winnetka Public Schools District 36's eLearning strategy for emergency days, ensuring continuity of education through remote environments. Key focus areas include integrating learning activities with existing curriculum, ensuring equitable access and connectivity for students and staff, and tracking student attendance. It also details provisions for IEP and ELL students, ongoing staff training, and differentiated expectations for general education, special education, and classified personnel, aiming to deliver meaningful and compliant distance learning experiences.

This document outlines the PaCE Middle School Framework Crosswalk, emphasizing a Whole Child Approach, Experiential & Meaningful Learning, and Collaborative Community. It details descriptors and rationales for student development by the end of eighth grade, focusing on key areas such as the relationship between community service and postsecondary/career goals, fostering a growth mindset, guided self-reflection, effective communication for aspirations, career interest exploration, building support networks, and articulating personal strengths and resilience.