Lawrence Barrett

The new strategic plan for School District U46 aims to promise a safe, caring environment and provide an exceptional educational experience, preparing students for a successful future. Its core focus areas include achieving academic and social-emotional skills for lifelong learning in preK-2, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, ensuring at least a year of academic growth for all students, and developing skills for successful post-secondary transitions. The plan also emphasizes the ongoing modernization of facilities to enhance learning environments.

The board meeting featured a presentation on National School Counseling Week, a facility planning update for several district schools, and a review of the November financial report. Key actions included the approval of a significant list of bills, the affirmation of a student disciplinary suspension, and the authorization of various facility and operational projects, including furniture purchases for middle schools and a dump truck acquisition. Additionally, the board discussed and reviewed numerous board policy updates, curriculum resource proposals for elementary art and music, and adopted resolutions regarding the working cash fund and safety hazard findings for transportation.

This document outlines a comprehensive plan for Postsecondary and Career Expectations designed for students from 9th through 12th grade. The plan focuses on individualized learning, career exploration and development, postsecondary education exploration, preparation, and selection, and financial aid and literacy. It aims to guide students through various stages, including completing elective courses, identifying postsecondary paths, creating resumes, understanding financial aid, and completing admission applications, to prepare them for successful transitions after high school.

This document outlines the Illinois Postsecondary and Career Expectations (PaCE) Framework, designed for middle school students across 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. The framework provides structured guidance for the exploration of postsecondary planning and career options, emphasizing the development of self-advocacy, aspiration, and planning skills. It aims to prepare students for meaningful engagement in postsecondary preparation programs, fostering confidence and a growth mindset to achieve their goals.

The Board of Education meeting addressed several key items, beginning with a closed session to discuss disciplinary matters, litigation, employee compensation, real property transactions, internal audits, collective negotiating matters, and individual student matters. During the open session, a strategic plan report included an update on the 2026-2027 Boundary Transition, covering classroom moving logistics and transportation routing progress. Public comments focused on the Automotive Technology Program, specifically regarding the restrictions on using live vehicles. Other business included updates from the Superintendent and Board Members on staff appreciation, the Century Oaks groundbreaking, and a construction site visit. The Board also noted 14 Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. The large Consent Agenda covered personnel matters, termination approvals, donation acceptance, intergovernmental agreements, and various plant operations contracts and change orders. In discussion/action items, the Board approved the List of Bills for $61,487,537.11 and adopted resolutions for issuing General Obligation School Bonds, Series 2026A (not to exceed $57,000,000) and General Obligation Limited Tax School Bonds, Series 2026B (not to exceed $32,000,000). The meeting concluded with a review of the Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Financial Report and a Work Session addressing bids and proposals for facility projects, including Larkin High School Stadium improvements and playground equipment replacement, as well as grant applications and before/after school program providers.