Jeremy Dotson

The strategic plan outlines a three-year vision for Freeport School District 145, shaped by the input of administrators, staff, parents, students, and community partners. It establishes a framework for providing a quality education to students, emphasizing shared responsibility in achieving this goal.

The strategic plan represents the culmination of work of FSD administrators, staff, parents, students and community partners. It provides a framework for providing a quality education for students.

The Board of Education meeting included discussions on Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, Rotary Scholarships for FHS students, and district attendance rates. A proposal for a cell phone ban in classrooms was reviewed, and the 2025 Summer Learning at Home Program was presented. The Science of Reading Research and its implications for literacy instruction were addressed. Updates were provided on the Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee's summit attendance and the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy program. The College Now program, renewal of a contract with the Learning Technology Center, and Pioneer Reading Kits for Empire Elementary School were discussed. A two-day on-site training for instructional coaches and leaders was proposed. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) State Performance Plan (SPP) and Program Options Task Force updates were presented. An Intergovernmental Agreement for Educational Services with Stockton Community Unit School District 206 and the Consolidated District Plan (CDP) were also discussed. The board took action on the Cebrin Goodman Teen Institute Proposal, College Now Update, PE/Health/Driver Education Curriculum Adoption and Implementation, and Social Studies Curriculum Adoption.

The board meeting included recognition of staff and students for achievements in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities. Updates were provided on the Preschool Expansion Project, changes to the Flyer Procedures, and the Summer Backpack Biliteracy Program. The monthly financial report for April 2025 was presented, along with a review of the Student Code of Conduct and recommendations for renaming the Department of Equity & Curriculum to the Department of Student And Family Engagement (SAFE). The board also discussed mental health support for students, policy reviews from the IL Association of School Boards, and changes to extra-duty positions and compensation levels. The Multilingual Steering Committee recommended a planning year to assess the feasibility of implementing a Dual Language Program.

The Board of Education received numerous reports, including the Superintendent's report and student & staff recognition. The Jazz Band, Varsity Choir, and staff/directors were congratulated for their successful Showtime production. Students were recognized for their participation in the 2025 Helm VDC Competition. Stacey Kleindl was selected for a Spotlight Recognition at the 9th Annual IALAS Conference. Jack Sosnowski received the IL Association of School Boards Board Leader Recognition Award. The board was updated on the Preschool Expansion project, measles protection rates, and the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). The board also reviewed the Monthly Finance Report for March 2025, the Annual Technology Department Update, the Cebrin Goodman Teen Institute, P.E. & Health Curriculum, Social Studies Curriculum Review, and the Elementary Report Card. The board approved the consent agenda, which included Freeport School District and CareerTEC Bills, the Personnel Report, Northwestern Illinois Association for purchased services, an abatement bid to Hogan Environmental Cleaning, updated job descriptions, the 2025-2026 Van RFP Barkau Automotive, and the 2025-2026 Fuel Bid Saunders Oi. The board took action in favor of the Permanent Storm Water Easement Agreement Between Freeport Sd 145 and The City of Freeport.