John Connolly

The meeting included discussions on the Illinois school report card, with recognition of the district's performance. Amendments to the agenda were addressed, including the removal of the hockeyification agreement and a settlement agreement. The board also addressed filling a board member vacancy, followed by the administration of the oath of office to the approved member. Student representatives provided updates from Samberg, Andrew, and Stag high schools, highlighting achievements in sports, academics, and community events. The meeting also acknowledged Principal Appreciation Day.

The committee discussed the importance of having a voice in the district's direction, particularly in terms of equity. Members emphasized the value of diverse perspectives from community members, administrators, and teachers across different schools. The goal is to collaborate and combine the best ideas from each school to improve the district as a whole. The committee aims to set goals that represent a diverse array of opinions and meet the needs of the student population, working towards a powerful and important journey in the district.

The committee discussed building updates, including the completion of the turf and tracks, east gym windows, roll-up doors for press boxes and softball dugouts. The LED lighting retrofit is nearly complete, and roof renovations are finished. Solar panel phase one bidding is in progress. Pool filter issues have been resolved, and security camera upgrades are complete. Installation of highway purification devices is ongoing. A virtual tour of Vancouver is planned. Maintenance and cleaning are ongoing. A technology update covered key goals, including infrastructure, Skyward and systems, digital learning, and professional development. The Cares grant is supporting remote learning initiatives, such as a virtual desktop environment and Google Enterprise licensing. The security camera system has been upgraded. Laser fish digital forms are being used across departments, and copier and printer usage is decreasing. Security measures, including monthly email scams, are in place to address security threats.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. A budget amendment for fiscal year 2020 was adopted, addressing adjustments to maintenance grants, special education funding, property taxes, and a la carte collections. The board also approved the renewal premium rates for the district's insurance programs, which included modifications to the drug plan and a wellness bonus. Additionally, personnel actions were approved, including administrative employment and resignations.

The board meeting centers around the presentation and discussion of the 2021 reopening plan. The plan includes stages for fully remote learning, a blended on-site remote program, and a fully on-site program depending on the state's restore Illinois phases. The blended program involves rotating schedules with a percentage of students attending on-site and others remotely, with flexibility for students needing special services. Traditional grading practices and attendance will be in effect. The plan also includes a detailed orientation process to familiarize students with the new expectations and procedures, as well as protocols for personal protective equipment (PPE) and physical distancing.