John Jensen

The regular meeting of the Board of Education included several significant agenda items. Key discussions centered around staff reports, specifically featuring student voices from the CMS student impact group regarding Black History Month celebrations and ideas to increase student representation. The Board received a reminder about the ongoing Five Essentials Survey, which drives organizational culture and climate, covering indicators like effective leaders and collaborative teachers. A major presentation detailed the strategic plan for the 2026 through 2029 school years, built upon three foundational pillars: Curriculum and Instruction, Student Services, and Culture, with communication, collaboration, and belonging serving as foundational elements. Specific goals under culture focused on strengthening family engagement via annual surveys and fostering student belonging. The student support services section covered goals related to improving the percentage of students with IEPs served in general education settings, strengthening Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) practices including social, emotional, and behavioral supports, and strengthening family participation and satisfaction in the special education process through structured opportunities and feedback mechanisms.

The meeting included staff reports detailing essential considerations for Central Middle School's infrastructure. Discussion focused on prioritized mechanical, electrical, and plumbing projects, including replacement needs for unit vents (last replaced in 1996) and original 1974 boilers, which are near the end of their typical lifespan. Other discussed needs included HVAC rework for the main office and multi-purpose room, upgrading to LED lighting fixtures, and replacing hot water storage tanks. The presentation also covered roof replacement needs, focusing on a dated area on the south end of the building. Accessibility improvements were reviewed, notably the replacement of a failing elevator (estimated cost $400,000) and potential ADA ramp construction near the library. Minor updates included replacing frayed carpet in a few third-floor rooms and addressing life safety items identified in ten-year reports, primarily concerning door closers and fire ratings. The board and presenter discussed cost optimization strategies for the capital projects, aiming to reduce the overall estimated cost of $5.5 million (including contingency) down toward a target of $55 million. The board also reviewed updates on district belonging initiatives, highlighting a successful culture night event that showcased various represented cultures.

The board meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and approval of the agenda. Key discussion points included a report from the eighth-grade student advisory regarding concerns over declining student emotional well-being, leading to plans for a presentation by speaker Zion Given in February. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing the results of a public opinion survey concerning facility proposals, which included renovations and additions to elementary schools and the construction of a new middle school at an estimated cost of $19.8 million. The survey indicated 38% support for the large proposal and 40% for the smaller proposal (new middle school only), with high concern noted regarding tax impact. Board members expressed disappointment over the survey results but emphasized the need to move forward with facility improvements, discussing next steps such as bringing high-priority items for Central Middle School to the facilities committee and considering placing the measure on a future ballot to honor public input.

The informational session provided an overview of stakeholder engagement, facilities needs, proposed solutions, and Illinois financing options for capital projects. It included a review of the district website and a tour of mobile units. The discussion covered strategic planning, facilities needs assessment, teacher and student surveys, and community surveys. Anticipated benefits included health, life safety, student safety, reducing overcrowding, investing in lasting solutions, extending the useful life of existing facilities, enhancing ADA accessibility, improving traffic flow and congestion, ensuring access to high-quality education, improving energy efficiency, strengthening the ability to attract and keep teachers, protecting property values, and expanding opportunities for community use of school facilities. The session also explained bond referendums and provided examples of Illinois schools seeking approval for capital projects.

The meeting addressed additions and deletions to the agenda, followed by a recognition of administrative professionals and retiring board members. The Board also acknowledged grant recipients, including projects for a 3D printer, a day of service, a take-home library, and a resilience and coping skills program. The Board also recognized community partners for their support of district initiatives.