Kenya A Austin

The Skokie School District 68 Board of Education meeting included a Superintendent Report with updates on student success and curriculum. The board approved the consent agenda, covering personnel and financial reports, pay orders, expenditures, payroll, workers' compensation renewal, and classified salaries for 2025-2026. Reports were heard on the NTDSE and ED-RED meetings, as well as board communications. Policy first readings were reviewed, and discussions were held on strategic planning services. The tentative budget for 2025-2026 was accepted and posted, and a resolution was passed designating interest earnings for fiscal year 2024-2025. The 2025-2026 school calendar was amended, and agreements were approved with Niles SD219 and the Metro Chicago Math Initiative. The board also entered into a closed session to discuss personnel matters and reconvened to act on a uniform grievance appeal.

The meeting included a public hearing on the adoption of the 2022-2023 proposed budget, with expenditure changes primarily due to staffing, salary updates, and potential capital projects at Jane Stenson School. Enrollment reports showed a slight decrease, particularly at the junior high level. Updates were provided on classroom and school renovations at Jane Stenson Elementary School, with cost estimates ranging from $6,764,181 to $7,765,599. Superintendent's reports covered various topics, including the District's Fall Highlights, upcoming strategic planning, school safety initiatives, and upcoming board elections. Action items included the adoption of the 2022-2023 budget, approval of the TRS Supplemental Savings Plan Employer Participation Agreement, and approval of contracts with Lisa Westman Consulting, Inc. and Schoolwide, Inc. for professional development services.

The board meeting included a superintendent report highlighting learning communities at Devonshire Elementary School, the annual audit report, and key dates. The consent agenda included personnel and financial reports, as well as approval of pay orders and expenditures. Reports were heard on Educational Research Development (ED-RED), Niles Township District for Special Education (NTDSE), and policy amendments related to grievance procedures and employee ethics. A resolution was approved for transferring bond proceeds for capital projects, along with the adoption of the OOJH Math Curriculum and an educational services equity audit. A closed session was held to discuss personnel matters.

The meeting included presentations on the significance of music education at Devonshire Elementary and a summary of additions and changes to the K-8 Science/STEM curriculum. The superintendent's report addressed the resignation of the assistant superintendent of business and chief school business official. Discussion included ED-RED reports on new student arrivals and the first reading of several Board of Education policies (2:20, 2:200, 2:220, 4:10, 4:30, 4:60). Action items included authorizing the 2023 tax levy, approving a solar panel agreement, approving construction bids for Devonshire and Highland Elementary Schools, and approving a roof replacement bid for Devonshire Elementary. A report on Freedom of Information Act requests was also given.

The Skokie School District 68 Board of Education meeting included a Superintendent's Report highlighting the ELL Parent Center Presentation, Teacher Appreciation Week, Retirement Recognition for Kristy Frick and Molly Olson, recognition of Claire Schuette as a Friend of NTDSE, and the Kindergarten Kickoff. The board approved the Consent Agenda, including the Personnel Report with the hiring of Elisa Leporini as the new Director of Student Services, Financial Reports, and Approval of Pay Orders and Expenditures. Additionally, the board approved Word Study for Grades 3-5, the iReady Contract, Student Fees for 2025-2026, and the District Furniture Purchase - Phase II. The board also shared communication and information regarding Freedom of Information Act Requests and entered into Closed Session to discuss the purchase or lease of real property and the setting of a price for sale or lease of property.