Kathryn Adduci

The Board of Education discussed renovation options for Blackhawk Middle School, including aesthetic improvements and functional upgrades to corridors, science classrooms, and the fitness room. The board also reviewed proposals for creating new intervention spaces to support students and the potential conversion of underutilized courtyards into more functional outdoor learning areas. Concerns were raised regarding the loss of classroom space due to the intervention room expansion and the cost-effectiveness of exterior building renovations.

The Board of Education meeting included several recognitions, such as the Rock the Sox Down Syndrome awareness event, the achievement of a PhD by the curriculum director, and an appreciation honor for a community member. Updates were provided on a food service contract, FOIA requests, and a safety and security initiative involving the installation of vaping sensors, bus cameras, building security upgrades, and emergency plan revisions. Additionally, the board adopted a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bensenville Education Association and approved an employment resignation agreement following a closed session.

The Board discussed several key topics including the presentation of an end-of-year recognition event for staff. A major focus of the meeting was the potential partnership with 'Right at School' to provide after-school programming, which would replace previous club offerings. The Board reviewed curriculum details, staffing models, and financial considerations for this new program, including the use of ESSER funds. Additionally, the Board received administrative reports, including FOIA requests, discussed the timing for an upcoming board workshop, reviewed a third-quarter financial update, and coordinated attendance for the eighth-grade promotion and the Fourth of July parade.

The board meeting covered a wide range of administrative and operational updates. Key discussions included a school safety update reviewing emergency response, threat assessment, and dress code policies. The board received a third-quarter financial update, reviewed proposed health insurance rates for classified staff, and authorized spending for the upcoming school year ahead of final budget adoption. Additionally, the board established meeting dates for the 2026-2027 cycle, approved the procurement of new Chromebooks for the technology refresh program, and authorized the disposal of two retired district vehicles.

The Board meeting covered several administrative and operational topics, including updates on the middle school health curriculum to address modern health issues, student services initiatives such as adding a behavior analyst and expanding special education programs, and the approval of a lease agreement with the North DuPage Special Education Cooperative. The Board accepted donations for school programs, appointed a committee on student discipline, and reviewed and approved various policy revisions. Additionally, the Board authorized a contract for new internet services at Blackhawk Middle School, designated an official for tentative budget preparation, approved a budget development calendar, renewed a food service contract, and issued a notice to remedy for a staff member.